- Organize – figure out what you need to pack. Plan on spending time packing in advance of moving.
- Purchase packing supplies – boxes, tape, markers, blankets, shrink wrap, storage bins, scissors, utility knife
- Sort through items – don’t move what you don’t need
- Create donation piles and throw-away piles
- Start packing things not needed
- Label boxes – keep inventory list – know how to locate imporant papers
- Do not pack or store hazardous, perishable or flammable items including plants
- Use special care with sentimental items – mark fragile items
- Do not over pack heavy items
- Pack lamps, mirrors, and picture frames – use specialty boxes
- Use file boxes for paperwork
- Wrap plates and store on sides in box – not flat – mark fragile
- Use wardrobe boxes for clothing
- Group similiar size boxes together for easy loading into truck or storage unit