Tips For Packing

1. Develop a master “to do” list so you won't forget something critical.
   
2. Sort and get rid of things you no longer want or need. Have a garage sale, donate to a charity, or recycle.
   
3. 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.
   
4. Pack like items together. Put toys with toys, kitchen utensils with kitchen utensils.
   
5. 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.
   
6. Use the right box for the item. Loose items encourage breakage.
   
7. Put heavy items in small boxes so they're easier to lift. Keep weight under 50 lbs. if possible.
   
8. Don't over-pack boxes and increase the chances they will break.
   
9. Wrap every fragile item separately and pad bottom and sides of boxes.
   
10. 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.
    
11. 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.
    
12. Keep your moving documents together, including phone numbers, driver's name, and van number. Also keep your address book handy.
    
13. Back up your computer files before moving your computer.
    
14. Inspect each box and all furniture for damage as soon as it arrives.
    
15. Remember, most movers won't take plants.

Moving Tips for Sellers

1. Give your forwarding address to the post office, usually two to four weeks ahead of the move.
   
2. Notify your credit card companies, magazine subscriptions, and bank of the change of address.
   
3. Develop a list of friends, relatives, and business colleagues who need to be notified of the move.
   
4. Arrange to have utilities disconnected at your old home and connected at your new one.
   
5. Cancel the newspaper.
   
6. Check insurance coverage for moved items. Usually movers only cover what they pack.
   
7. Clean out appliances and prepare them for moving, if applicable.
   
8. Note the weight of the goods you'll have moved, since long-distance moves are usually billed according to weight. Watch for movers that use excessive padding to add weight.
   
9. Check with your condo or co-op about restrictions on using the elevator or particular exits.
   
10. Have a “first open” box with the things you'll need most—toilet paper, soap, trash bags, scissors, hammer, screwdriver, pencils and paper, cups and plates, water, snacks, and toothpaste.

Plus, if you're moving out of town:

1. Get copies of medical and dental records and prescriptions for your family and your pets.
   
2. Get copies of children's school records for transfer.
   
3. Ask friends for introductions to anyone they know in your new neighborhood.
   
4. Consider special car needs for pets when traveling.
   
5. Let a friend or relative know your route.
   
6. Carry traveler's checks or an ATM card for ready cash until you can open a bank account.
   
7. Empty your safety deposit box.
   
8. Put plants in boxes with holes for air circulation if you're moving in cold weather.