Buying a new home is one of life's great adventures. Now that the deal has been finalized there are some important points to consider when planning your move.

Preplanning and organization are the key elements needed to avoid stress and last-minute panic. Your goal: Make the moving process run smoothly.

Start early. Begin your plans at least two months before the move. That's when you should start packing the items you use least often. Decide what you won't be taking with you and have a garage sale, place a classified ad, or give the items to charity.

Ask friends and family for their recommendations on movers. You can also ask The Canadian Association of Movers for advice and referrals. Call (905) 513-1728 or go to http://www.mover.net/.

Whether you choose a full-service moving company, or hire a private mover with a van, get at least three estimates.

Keep notes

Make sure a company rep will come to your home to do a detailed, free estimate, at no obligation to you. There's no way you can get an accurate quote over the phone. Note the name of the company and the names of the staff you deal with. If there are any problems with the move, you'll be thankful to have this information.

May to September, especially the first few days and the last few days of the month are peak moving time and the most expensive days to move. Ask which days and times of the month are cheaper. Plus, some companies sweeten the pot by offering incentives such as coupons/gift certificates for department stores, so be sure to ask.

When you book, check on moving-related services and their costs. Is there a minimum charge, is there a charge for mileage and travelling time to and from the locations, what are the packing charges? You often have a choice of packing options ranging from the whole house to just your breakables. And ask if they regularly fumigate equipment.

Also, find out if the company offers discounts for advance booking.

DIY moving

If you want to do the move yourself, start calling van/truck rental companies. Get three estimates in writing. Remember, that's an estimate not a guarantee. And be sure to check the hourly rate, (figure an hour to move each room's contents, not counting bathrooms and closets) plus gas and mileage costs.

Check with your insurance company about your property being insured during the move. Some van companies offer collision insurance, not property insurance. Ask questions and make notes.

Start collecting cartons from local stores. You can also check the Yellow Pages for moving suppliers. The Moving Store rents just about everything you'll need from boxes to plastic containers. Call (416) 789-4185 or go to http://www.movingstore.com/.

Some moving companies sell boxes, bubble wrap, clean wrap and other moving supplies to people who book with them, so be sure to ask.

Always check about property insurance coverage when you move. Movers don't provide insurance on cartons packed by the owner. If there's a problem, keep the carton as evidence that the movers were negligent and ask for a copy of the policy. You may want a legal expert to check it over.

Before moving day, ask if there are any items that the movers won't. It will be up to you to look after them.

Next, advise Canada Post to ensure your mail moves with you. Fill out a change a form at the post office and for about $30, plus tax, your mail will be redirected for up to six months.

The post office also offers free change of address cards that are mailed with regular postage. Included on your lists: Government services, (including Revenue Canada and Health coverage), home and auto insurance, credit card companies, newspapers and magazines. Change your driver's license, too.

Arrange for disconnection/reconnection of telephone, cable, utilities and services and close or transfer bank accounts and order safety deposit box at new location.

Nobody can remember every detail. Post your moving plans/tasks to be completed on the refrigerator. A big calendar helps, too. Check it regularly.

And if you are so busy you can't face the details of planning your move, get a quote on hiring a professional organizer who will arrange your move. Once again, check the Yellow Pages.

Packing yourself may seem like a big job, but just think of the money you are saving. Don't be overwhelmed by what seems a never-ending job. Pack a little at a time and stick to one room at a time. Start early so you won't be overwhelmed. Items that you are still using can be put aside for later packing.

Handy tips

• Use only sturdy boxes with lids;
• Seal and label (with contents and room) all boxes on the tops and sides. Write "fragile" on boxes requiring special attention. Use a thick marker and thick heavy-duty tape. (Available at most stores. Generic brands are cheaper);
• Make a floor plan of your new home. Consider where the furniture will go. This will help during unloading;
• If hiring movers, make a list of items that are valuable that you prefer to move yourself. Place these items in cartons labelled "do not move.";
• If using stand-up wardrobe boxes, the bottom is not designed to support weight;
• Many people making a long distance move/or putting their property into storage prepare an inventory list as each box is packed. It is a quick method to check if a box is missing;
• Using newspaper as a wrapping is not advised. The ink may stain and it makes for more washing time later on;
• Stuff glasses and cups with crumpled paper before wrapping, then place between dishes. Pack flat china, pictures or small mirrors on edge. Put three inches of paper on the bottom of the box to act as a cushion. Leave 2.5 inches between plates;
• Use towels, blankets or sheets as padding around fragile objects;
• Take light bulbs and shades off lamps. Pack separately in bubble wrap;
• Pack books and records (if you still have them) in small cartons. They are heavy so don't pack too many in one box;
• Tie brooms, mops and curtain rods in bundles;
• Tape an X across each mirror with masking tape before placing in paper;
• Identify boxes with items that you will need immediately such as towel and linens with an "open first" sign. Make sure they are easily accessible on the truck.
• Shop for snacks and beverages to have on hand for moving day. Your normal mealtimes may be interrupted.
• Before moving day, maintain your pet's routine. On moving day, keep your pet confined to one room with food, water, toys and litter box if needed. Wait several days after moving before letting your pet outdoors. Use a leash until your pet becomes familiar with the new area.

It's moving day

• Conduct a last-minute walk through. Check that all lights are off, windows are shut, taps are off and doors are locked. Check the cupboards, the closets and the garage to ensure that everything has been removed;
• If you are using movers, go over details;
• Get a friend or relative to help and work as a team. One can supervise the unloading, the other can direct the movers. Use your floor plan. Some companies will assemble your bed as part of the moving service;
• Check that utilities/telephone connected;
• Once the truck is unloaded, unpack the "open first" boxes only. Leave the rest. Relax;
• Take time to unpack. As boxes are emptied, break them down and place in recycling bins or give to someone you know who will be moving. Or ask the moving company, if they'd like the boxes -- they may even pick them up.