Create a home for paperwork. This includes a folder for receipts, lists of utilities and phone numbers, dates for installations, box inventory list (if you have one), tip money, checkbook, etc.
Purge before you move. Don’t pack things you don’t need or haven’t used in a long time. Donate the items or throw them away. Craigslist “free” section is a great way to get rid of items you don’t need, both large and small.
Pack a tool belt. Use a carpenter’s belt or similar to hold tape, pens, tape measure, packing knife and more.
Set a goal to pack 5-10 boxes a week, starting with the stuff you don’t use often.
One room at a time. Pack room by room, not all together. As much as possible, keep the rooms separated. Pack them how the rooms are now, not how they will end up. At least that way you can remember that an item USED to be in the living room, etc. This also helps keep all the electronics organized and necessary cables together.
Label, label, label. Label all four sides of the box with the contents – use a printable label that you can write on before you stick it to the box!
There’s an app for that. If you’re ultra-organized and ready to put in some time, download the iphone app “Moving Van” and use it to inventory your boxes, take photos of the contents, etc.
Save money on supplies. Use your extra sheets and towels from the linen closet to wrap breakables. Pick up wine boxes at Costco or liquor stores to pack wine bottles or glasses.
Pack effectively. Pack heavy items like books in small boxes, and lighter items like blankets and pillows in larger boxes. While you are packing keep in mind that you need to be able to lift the box and not have the bottom rip open.
Survive in the new house. In the last few days before moving, create the following special boxes and set aside:
- Suitcases – Pretend you’re going on vacation and pack your suitcases with all the things you’ll need to survive for your first few days. This includes your toiletries, medications and clothes.
- Create a few essentials boxes –
Box 1: include flashlights, keys, cell phone chargers, light bulbs, toilet paper, money,
cleaning supplies, paper towels, dish soap, kitchen towels, sponge, paper plates and cups, sippy
cups, dry snacks.
Box 2: Kids’ essentials – pillows, sheets and blankets, bears, noise machines, pajamas, night light,
special toys, change of clothes.
Box 3: Adults’ essentials – pillows, sheets and blankets, pajamas, change of clothes.
Box 4: Pets’ essentials – leashes, food bowls, food, medications, beds and blankets.
Once you arrive, make sure your movers place the boxes in the rooms they belong to. Before they bring boxes in, show them which room corresponds to the boxes.
Unpack one box at a time, putting everything away before opening the next box.