Moving Tips
Make a list
Write everything down! You'll place a number on EVERY box you pack and list the contents. When describing the box contents, be specific -- "A-D files" is better than "files", and "Tulip dishes" rather than "misc. kitchen".
Have plenty of supplies
You'll need LOTS of boxes and having enough boxes will make your life easier. Have about 10 boxes set aside to use for last minute items on moving day such as bedding, clothing, and cleaning supplies. You'll need strong plastic packing tape to close up the boxes securely. Use packing paper or bubble wrap to wrap and cushion household goods.
Utilize wardrobe boxes
These tall boxes are perfect for bulky, lightweight items such as comforters, pillows, and blankets, as well as clothes that need to remain hanging. Ask movers for the width of the wardrobe boxes they'll be bringing. Then measure the clothes in your closets to see how many you'll need.
Colour coordinate
Designate a colour for each room in the new home, such as yellow for kitchen, orange for dining room, etc. Apply coloured stickers on the box near the box number. In your new home put a matching sticker on the door to each room. The movers will know where to put everything when they arrive at the destination. It's also helpful to post a big sign on the wall in the room where you want boxes stacked.
Keep things together
Insist on keeping things together when you or the movers are packing. Keep bookends with books, light bulbs with lamps, and extension cords with appliances. Small, loose parts can be attached to the item they belong to with tape or placed in small envelopes. As a backup, have a "Parts Box" open and fill it with cables, cords, parts, pieces, brackets, or nails that are removed from any items of furniture. Keep this box with you, or mark it well so it can be easily located on move-in day.
Pack ahead
Anything you can pack ahead will save you time on moving day. Condense bathroom and cooking utensils and food supplies down to bare essentials.
Consolidate cleaning supplies
If you must clean your old place after moving out, put together a kit of basic cleaning supplies. Clean anything possible ahead of time and if possible, vacuum each room as movers empty it.
Use your luggage
Fill luggage and duffle bags with clothing, sheets and towels that you will need for your first few days as this luggage will be easy to locate amongst the hundreds of boxes.
Safeguard valued items
It's a good idea to keep valuable possessions with you. If you have a long move and no room in your car, bury the items in a box titled "Misc. from kitchen pantry".
Keep important papers with you
Your list of "important" papers might include: birth certificates, school records, new job contacts, utility company numbers, recent bank records, current bills, phone lists, closing papers, realtor info, maps, and more. Please do not leave these with the mover. Keep them with you.
Moving may not be the most fun you've ever had, but planning ahead will go a long way toward making the process bearable.