The first step to a good move is to take care of the details. Whether you’re moving across town, to a new city, or to a new part of the country, careful planning will make a huge difference to your moving experience.

Moving to the Washington DC area has its own unique challenges. Choose a competent and experienced Washington DC moving company to ensure that your move is as smooth and trouble free as possible.

Shop for the best utility service in your new location. Look at average utility usage in the area, season by season, and see what kind of costs you’ll be looking at. When planning carefully you will do your research well in advance. That way you can have things up and running in your new home as soon as possible – maybe even before you move in.

File a change of address with the post office so that your mail will be forwarded, as well as notifying friends and relatives of the change. If you want a security system at your new home arrange for that, too, and don’t forget to notify your current provider that you won’t need their services in the future.

Use an internet map site like Google Maps or Bing Maps (Microsoft) to locate all the important services, recreational facilities, schools, churches and stores in your new location. This is a very easy way to familiarize yourself with the terrain and will save hours as you learn how to get around in your new city.

Don’t just choose the first move you see, or the one with the lowest price. Look for a good Washington DC mover who has been in business for a number of years and is experienced in cross country or cross town moving.

If you get a professional mover to pack your things they will look after all the details for you. They’ll also provide boxes and packing materials. If you want to do your own packing, be sure you use sturdy boxes that you can get at no charge from most retail stores.

If you have pets, don’t forget their comfort, either. If you’ll be driving a long distance, take food and water bowls and stop every couple of hours so you can all stretch your legs. Have all your pet’s favorite bedding and toys ready when you reach your destination so that they won’t feel insecure. Try to make your new place as homey as possible because you don’t want your four-legged friends to think they are should try returning to the old house.