Whether you’re moving across the country or just down the block, it’s always best to start planning and organizing well ahead of time. This ensures that all of the important steps are taken care of and minimizes any last-minute stress or surprises. To get started, create a comprehensive Moving day checklist and work through it over the weeks leading up to your move.

Start by packing non-essential items, like seasonal decor, home accessories and books that are no longer being used. You should also make sure that all clothing is hung up and ready to be packed in boxes, including sweaters and coats that you won’t need until the weather changes again. The fridge and freezer should be cleaned out and all perishables donated or thrown away (or frozen for later use in your new home).

Moving Day Checklist: Everything You Need for a Stress-Free Day

If you have children, register them for school in the area of your new home. This requires forms, documents and immunization records. Don’t forget to notify the post office, banks, insurance companies and subscription services that you are moving.

Clean your home to prepare it for the new owners and to make sure that you’ll get your security deposit back from the landlord. Consider hiring a professional cleaning service to scrub all of the hard-to-reach places and leave your old place in good shape for its next tenant.