(NAPSA)—Whetherfor work, family or change of lifestyle and scenery, moving is widely recognized as oneof life’s most stressful events. Thoughtful planning can ease frustrations and prevent many unpleasant surprises. Clyde and Shari Steiner, authors of the HowTo-Move Handbook, and nationally recognized relocation experts, offer their top five tips for an easier move: Stay connected while house hunting You never know when you might drive by the perfect house— on the way to work, the grocery store or taking the kids to soccer practice. Keep a notepad and pencil in the car to write down details of appealing houses you passby. Also bring along a wireless phone to call a spouse or roommate in case you are able to get a lastminute viewing. Sign a written contract The Steiners recommend hiring a moving company at least four to six weeks before the expected moving date. Always obtain an itemized binding estimate signed by the company before the movers pack your belongings and load them onto the truck. Movers have the legal right to hold onto your possessions and keep them packed on their truck until you pay their asking price. Secure an agreement in advance, to avoid being subject to the moving company’s demands. Changeof address Several weeks before moving, notify people and organizations about your new address. Be sure to include physicians, dentists and other medical professionals among those notified. High-tech equipment may have special packing requirements. Set uputilities ahead of time Research gas,electric, cable and telephoneservice providers at your new address and arrangeforutilities to be connected the day of your arrival. Why not simplify yourlife by searching for integrated communications plans? Sprint, for example, offers one plan for local, longdistance and wireless service in some markets andis easily activated by calling 1-800-PINDROP. Don’t forget to disconnect service at your formerresidence. Insure high-tech equipment Add computers and other hightech items to your homeownerspolicy before you move. Ask if your insurance company covers goods in transit for breakage during the move, and for proper packing guidelines to ensure your policy honors any claim you may make. “Careful planning and packing helps ensure when you get to your new home you can find a glass for water, a change of clothes and a phoneto call family and friends to let them know that you made the trip safely,” said Shari Steiner.
