The holiday season is upon us … and whether you’re joining family, retiring or have just accepted a job transfer, everyone can use a helpful list when it comes to moving home. 
We’ve developed this one from over 50 years of experience, and though you’ll probably want to add something, it’s a good place to start – and will put you in good stead before the festivities start!
Top tips for moving this holiday season
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Announce that you are leaving – don’t forget to inform relevant organizations that you are leaving the country. Arrange a date for final bills to be paid and organize for your mail to be re-directed to your new address – after all, you won’t want to miss out on holiday cards from friends and family.
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Disconnect the following services to make sure you don’t end up paying too much: gas, water, electricity, telephone, cable television and Internet subscription. We can all use a little extra cash during the holidays.
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Find out who supplies the gas and electricity in your new home to avoid finding there is no energy supply to the property when you arrive. Otherwise there will not be a traditional dinner roasting in the oven this year.
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Some local shops in your new location may close earlier than usual during the holidays. Be prepared and search your new area for the best restaurants. If you’re celebrating in Japan, where traditional Christmas dinner is Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC), make your reservation fast – people queue out the door!
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Finally, decorate! It might be the last thing on your mind, but be sure to include decorations in your air shipment or excess baggage to quickly make a new home feel more like “home.”
For a full list of do’s and don’ts, read our year-round moving checklist.