• Clear out unwanted goods – hold a garage sale
• Dispose of flammables - paint, petrol, gas cylinders
• Empty fuel from mowers, clippers, trimmers and so on
• Clothes – do you need them all? Charity shops may want them
• Separate books – disposable, family reading, valuable
• Check all electrical goods – will they work in the new home?
• Start making up your change of address list
• Arrange to have mail forwarded
• Arrange termination date for electricity, gas, oil, telephone and other main suppliers
• If you are taking electrical goods such as a stereo, see if you still have their original boxes
• Have rugs cleaned
• If you have children, separate cherished toys to travel with you
• Round up personal documentation – marriage/birth certificates, driving licenses and so on
• Keep passports separate so they are not packed
• Want to take the car? Check on import regulations and the duty payable
• With regards to family pets– make sure vaccinations and documentation are up to date
• Will your new home be ready? If not, you need to arrange temporary storage
• Shops, schools, theaters, life styles – it’s never too early to find out about your new home
• Start running down freezer stocks
• Arrange your finances – close or transfer bank accounts, savings accounts and so on, if necessary

Waterbed Mattresses

Drain all water from the waterbed and, grasping internal baffle systems with external vinyl, fold mattress 20 inches at a time. Adjust folds to avoid making creases across individual baffles. Consult your owner's manual for special instructions concerning the care and transportation of your mattress. Do not place your mattress in a carton with sharp or pointed objects.

Cars and Motorcycles

Cars and motorcycles shipped on the moving van should be drained nearly empty of fuel. Motorcycle batteries should be disconnected. Automobile antifreeze should be ample to protect against severe cold in winter.

Barbecue Grills and Propane Tanks

Wrap grates and briquettes separately in a newspaper (or place all briquettes into a grocery bag) and place parts in carton. Pad carton with paper to reduce movement of contents. Propane tanks cannot be moved. Consult your local gas grill distributor for the safest method