Sell, give away, discard unnecessary belongings.You will save money and have less to pack and unpack. Don't just start packing — plan how you will pack. 

If you decide to pack yourself, plan on at least six weeks to pack. Begin packing seldom used items.

Check and clear tax assessments on your current property. Notify post office and send out change of address cards to companies, family and friends to inform of move.

Request copies of all medical, dental and veterinary records. Have any on-going prescriptions refilled. Get school records for transfer to new school.

Pick up anything you have out for repairs or service. Remember items at the cleaners. Return all items borrowed, collect all items loaned

Reconcile and close checking, savings accounts. Arrange to have cash or traveler's checks for your trip. Clean out your safe deposit box and take your valuables with you or arrange to have them sent by registered, insured mail.

Cancel newspapers, cleaning person, pool maintenance, snow removal, etc.

Movers refuse combustibles. Dispose of flammable items.Empty gasoline from lawnmowers, outboard motors, etc. Barbique tanks will be refused as well.  

Arrange to have utilities disconnected and establish connection at your new home. Make plans for hauling off any remaining trash when the move is over.