Moving is without a doubt a stressful process. There is a laundry list of tasks to be juggled, deadlines to be met and the always inevitable “what stays” vs. “what goes” conversations. It seems like no matter how much you think you have prepared there is always something that slips through the cracks (and chaos ensues). With that in mind we have pulled together a few guidelines for you. Stick to these guidelines and there is an excellent chance you may just make it through your next move headache free.

It’s one month before you move and you may think that you have plenty of time before you need to start packing up and moving out. Actually, there are a few important tasks that you will need to tackle at this point. One month out you need to notify your landlord that you are moving out and if you are breaking your lease, find out if there are any penalties for doing so. It's also a good idea to go ahead and set up to transfer your utilities (phone, gas, cable and electric). Lastly, don't forget to request time off from work!

You are moving in two weeks. You have your utility appointments scheduled, move out date set with your landlord, time off approved and you have been hoarding every box in sight. What's next? Its time to start packing anything you won't need until after your move. Venture into the dark corners of your closet and either pack or set aside for donation the clothes you never wear, old textbooks or gadgets. Book your moving company or reserve your moving truck and cancel any monthly household services (newspaper, etc). You can also arrange your change of address with the post office and forward your new address to friends, family and your office. It's also a good idea to have someone you can trust to watch your kids or pets for you the day of your move.

It's one week until the big day and this is where things start to get a little crazy. The good news is that you have been preparing for this move for a month now and you have already gotten most of the big stuff out of the way. It's time to arrange to have your final household utility bills paid (electric, gas, phone) and confirm your utility transfer appointments at your new residence. Try to get the keys to your new home as quickly as you can and start collecting blankets to protect your floors and carpets during the move. If you are using a moving company or if you have friends helping you move make sure that they have a map to your new home. Get an idea of what pieces of furniture you want in each room. This will help you and your movers get things in place quicker on moving day. Decide if you need extra storage space. If you do contact a self storage company in your area and reserve a storage unit.

One day before you move finish sealing and clearly labeling your boxes. Don't forget that you will soon be in a sea of boxes at your new home so the better you can label your boxes the easier it will be to find what you are looking for! Try to move boxes and other items as close to the door or garage and you can so they can be quickly placed into the moving truck. Finish cleaning up the apartment and pack a container for emergency supplies.

Today is the day! You are packed and ready to move. Take a last look and make sure that you have packed everything. Disconnect any remaining appliances, close and lock doors and windows, turn off the lights and make sure that you have account everything at your new residence.