Tips for moving locally:

New schools? Even a short move may mean a new school district. You’ll likely be able to visit in advance with your child, or even set up a video conference with their new teachers or administrators. Will the school have the classes, programs and activities your child is used to? Find out in advance what documents they need to transfer student records and any required medical exams and vaccinations. Moving can be worrisome for children, find out if they have a classmate living near your new address and arrange a playdate. Visit your new home and neighborhood before you move and check out local parks, bike trails, skateboard parks and other places you and your children would utilize.

Will your new home have the same utility and water company, cable supplier, trash and recycling services? Call these providers in advance to transfer your accounts to the new address and pay any balances and deposits if required. www.charlottenc.gov has links to public services and additional information.

Change your mailing address and alert your property manager or owner if renting following the terms of your rental agreement. You can fill out a change of address form at your local post office or online at www.usps.com.

Do you use public transportation? Research your new route in advance and see how it works for your needs. CATS (Charlotte Area Transit System) schedules for busses and rail can be found at: www.charlottenc.gov/CATS/Bus/Bus-Schedules

Don’t forget Fido and Fluffy. Moving is stressful for pets too. New smells, sounds and their favorite nap spots may have been taken over by boxes. Ease your pets worries by making sure that you keep handy their favorite beds, toys, blankets, etc. and place your pet in a secure spot during the moving process, perhaps even have someone stay with them (or board them) during the move so they don’t accidentally get outside. Once in your new home, return their favorite things to them right away. Prior to your move, take your dog on walks near your new home or explore the closest dog park.

Downsizing or just want to get rid of some stuff? Consider donating. Habitat for Humanity, Goodwill, and others may accept some of these items. Check their policies in advance. These non-profit organizations re-sell many items, keeping items out of landfills and creating jobs. Pick-up is often available.www.habitat.org, www.goodwill.org Relax! Moving has its emotional and physical challenges. Don’t forget to take care of yourself. After a long day of planning and packing, treat yourself (and your aching back) to a massage. Take a walk to clear your head, choose some of your favorite plants from your garden to re-plant at your new home, or scope out a garden center to plan ahead. T-N-T Moving Systems also offers packing services both before and after your move. Don’t worry, we won’t judge if you get that massage anyway!