9. MARK IT.
Felt pens are ideal for marking boxes with information such as its contents, destination room, fragile or this side up.
10. LABEL IT.
As you're packing, place removable, colored, circle stickers on your boxes to easily distinguish kitchen items, from bedroom items, from bathroom items, etc. Use a different color for each room. If necessary, make a master list so you'll know what is in each box. If you can go to your new home ahead of time, you may wish to stick a corresponding colored sticker on the door, or door frame, of the room that the box will be delivered to.
11. LIGHTEN UP.
Cartons can be handled easier if they do not exceed 50 lbs., fully packed. Keep this in mind when you're packing.
12. PACK ROOM BY ROOM.
Pack on a room-by-room basis, keeping the contents of each room in separate boxes. This will eliminate confusion and save time when you're unpacking.
13. PACK EARLY.
Even if you only pack two boxes a day, in thirty days you will have packed sixty boxes. Start in areas where the goods are not in frequent use such as the cellar, attic, garage, etc.
14. ORDER ADDRESS LABELS.
Order address labels before you move into your new home. They will be great to have on hand when you need to indicate a change of address on anything. Leave a few behind with the people who move into your old home or apartment so they can forward anything that gets delivered to them for you. Give them a few bucks to cover any postage costs.
15. MAKE A SURVIVAL KIT.
Make a survival kit for your first night in your new home. This should include items that will get you through the night if it's too late to unpack or the movers didn't showup. Helpful items to include might be: non-perishable food, can opener, paper plates, plastic utensils, bottled water, a flashlight, a few towels, sheets, toiletries, a blanket, toilet paper, pen/paper, a few small games or magazines and a change of clothes for everyone.
16. HAVE SOMEONE WATCH THE KIDS.
If you have children, especially young children, it might be a good idea to have someone babysit them while you are doing anything that involves your move, such as packing, unpacking, etc. Your kids won't be interrupting your progress and you'll accomplish more.
17. USE THE ONE ROOM RULE.
Set up ONE room in your new home as quickly as possible. This way, you'll have a quiet retreat, free of boxes. You and your family will then have a place to go when you need a break from all of the unpacking activities.
18. MAKE IT PET SAFE.
If you have pets, be sure you have a plan for when the movers arrive. Perhaps keep your cats in the bathroom with the litter box, or put your dogs in a fenced in yard. Also, take care to do what you can so your pets feel comfortable in your new home. Bring their favorite toys, give them attention, and don't leave them alone for long periods of time for the first few days.
19. MAKE THE FIRST NIGHT SPECIAL.
Make the first night in your new home as special as possible. It can be take-out Chinese food, or pizza, but you may sweeten the evening with flowers, candles and music. It will really make a big difference and will help you to unwind and de-stress.
20. DEVISE A PLAN.
Before you begin unpacking randomly, sit down with your family. Discuss a plan, including where things will go, who is responsible for what, etc. It will help things run smoothly.
21. HAVE A TOOL KIT ON HAND.
One of the most important things to have on hand when you're setting up your new home is a basic toolbox that includes basic tools and hardware, such as a hammer,
screwdrivers, nails, hooks, etc.
22. REMEMBER, FUNCTION BEFORE FORM.
It is best to first arrange your furniture, and then unpack accessories and personal items.
25 Tips and Tricks for an
Organized Move con't