Boris, a MoveCentral representative says, "(our) personnel use proprietary software and a comprehensive database to notify companies and organizations of your address change quickly and accurately."

You can have MoveCentral contact 5 companies or 500 companies - they don't put any restrictions on number you sign up for. They will contact any company you like within 24 hours of your sign up. They'll even notify your Post Office.

Beware that just because companies are contacted immediately doesn't mean they will act immediately. Boris advises "To avoid interruptions in delivery of your mail, it is best to give companies and organizations you receive mail from plenty of advance warning. MoveCentral's address change service works best if you register 4 to 6 weeks prior to your move".

Either way Remember to:

1. change your driver's license 2. change your checks to reflect new address 3. Visit www.fec.gov so you can register to vote 4. Notify IRS - even if you don't want to - by requesting a change of address form from (800) 829-3676 or downloading it from www.irs.gov.

If you need boxes and packing supplies, you might want to purchase them as part of your contract with your moving company. Otherwise, check out local supermarkets, janitorial supply stores and club warehouses. Many of these establishments will give away their empty boxes if you show up when inventory is being unpacked. Ask friends or coworkers who've recently moved whether they'd like you to cart away and recycle their boxes. To purchase moving supplies online, try U-Haul, which will take your order electronically and deliver a complete package of boxes, bubble wrap and masking tape right to your front door. (There is a shipping charge.)

Don't forget to pack a use-right-away kit of paper plates, plastic cups, bathroom tissue, aspirin, prescription medicines, telephone numbers and other necessities. You'll also want a personal suitcase for each person containing clothing, toiletries and other immediate-use items. Put kit and suitcases aside where they won't get mixed up with boxes destined for moving van. On moving day, take kit and suitcases, along with any particularly precious or valuable items, with you in your personal vehicle.

More information about packing is available on moving company and other Web sites, including Allied Van, NorthAmerica Van Lines, Move Doctor and Art of Moving. One of best resources is MoversNet from U.S. Postal Service. This site offers step-by-step instructions to pack everything from air conditioners and artwork to televisions and washing machines. There are even some humorous hints about how to pack a hippopotamus.

Finally, remember that some things simply shouldn't be moved with your household goods. Dispose of paint, solvents, insecticides, motor oil and other hazardous or inflammable materials before you move. Give them away to your neighbors or take advantage of a local hazardous materials drop-off event. If you suspect something might be dangerous, use your better judgment and don't pack it.