Tips before moving

JAKARTA (JP): The following are several basic moving tips provided by FIDI, the Brussels-based organization that currently has affiliated members of some 730 international moving companies in several countries, including Indonesia.

1. Clear out unwanted goods -- hold a garage sale.

2. Get rid of flammables -- paint, petrol, gas cylinders.

3. Empty fuel from mowers, hedge trimmers and so on.

4. Clothes -- do you need them all? Charity shops may want them.

5. Separate books -- disposable, family reading, valuable.

6. Check all electrical goods -- will they work in the new home?

7. Start making up your change of address list.

8. Arrange to have mail forwarded.

9. Agree on termination date for electricity, gas, oil, telephone and other supplies, and ask for bills to be made out.

10. If you are taking electrical goods such as a stereo, check the loft to see if you still have their original boxes.

11. Have rugs cleaned.

12. If you have children, separate cherished toys to travel with you.

13. Round up personal documentation -- marriage/birth certificates, driving licenses and so on.

14. Keep passports separate so they are not packed.

15. Want to take the car? Check on import regulations and the duty payable.

16. To say nothing of family pets -- make sure vaccinations and documentation are up to date.

17. Will your new home be ready? If not, you need to arrange temporary storage.

18. Shops, schools, theater, life styles -- it's never too early to find out about your new home. Go to the Internet or contact your local embassy for information. Many movers can supply you with country information.

19. Start running down freezer stocks.

20. Arrange your finances -- close or transfer bank accounts, savings accounts and so on.