Make and confirm lodging reservations as early as possible.

Give the post office a forwarding address two weeks prior to departure.

Change addresses with credit card companies and other billing agencies.

Send changes of address to magazine publishers and be aware subscription address changes usually take several weeks to take effect.

Notify relatives and friends of new address.

Have banker give a letter of introduction and credit references.

Stop newspaper and other home delivery services.

Settle bills with local utility companies.

Don't forget to get refunds of any deposits made and a letter of reference from the telephone and utility companies.

Transfer insurance on cars, home, etc., and check to see if personal, high-value possessions are covered during the move.

Take along the family address book, being sure to enter the address and telephone number of all creditors, as well as the due dates of all debt payments, in case bills are delayed or lost in forwarding mail.

Ask for a copy of, or transfer, children's school records.

Get records from private doctors and dentists.

Notify clergyman and obtain any necessary documents of birth, baptism, etc.