-
Develop
a master “to do” list so you won’t forget something
critical.
-
Sort and
get rid of things you no longer want or need. Have a
garage sale, donate to a charity, or recycle.
-
Don’t
throw out everything. If your inclination is to just
toss it, ask yourself how frequently you use an item
and how you’d feel if you no longer had it.
-
Pack
like items together. Put toys with toys, kitchen
utensils with kitchen utensils.
-
Decide
what if anything you plan to move yourself. Precious
items such as family photos, valuable breakables, or
must-haves during the move should probably stay with
you.
-
Use the
right box for the item. Loose items encourage
breakage.
-
Put
heavy items in small boxes so they’re easier to
lift. Keep weight under 50 lbs. if possible.
-
Don’t
over-pack boxes and increase the chances they will
break.
-
Wrap
every fragile item separately and pad bottom and
sides of boxes.
-
Label
every box on all sides. You never know how they’ll
be stacked and you don’t want to have to move other
boxes aside to find out what’s there.
-
Use
color-coded labels to indicate which room each item
should go in. Color-code a floor plan for your new
house to help movers.
-
Keep
your moving documents together, including phone
numbers, driver’s name and van number. Also keep
your address book handy.
-
Back up
your computer files before moving your computer.
-
Inspect
each box and all furniture for damage as soon as it
arrives.
-
Remember, most movers won’t take plants. T
