Packing takes longer than you expect, so allow plenty of time. Pack things that aren't frequently used first and unpack them last. Organization in packing will save you hours of time and frustration in the long run:

   Don't Forget

    Get more boxes than you think you will need.

    Get smaller boxes for books. Use bigger boxes for lighter items.

    Pack room-by-room, keeping similar items together.

    Reinforce the bottom of boxes with at least one strip of packing tape.

    Pack boxes firmly to prevent the contents from shifting during your move.

    Use crumpled paper for padding. Seal boxes tightly with wide packing

       tape.

    Pack records and CDs vertically in boxes. Don't stack them flat.

    Place heavier items in the bottom of the box and lighter items on top.

    Separate items with paper to prevent scratches caused by rubbing.

    Remove lids from jars and ceramics. Wrap each separately.

    Seal any opened boxes and bottles before packing them to avoid spills  

       and leakage.

    Use towels, linens, curtains, etc. to pad boxes of fragile items. Clearly

       mark these boxes  "FRAGILE."

    Use a jumbo box for lampshades and cushion them well.

    When disassembling furniture, beds, lamps, etc. put the hardware into a

       plastic bag along with any assembly tips and tape it onto the item itself.

  Packing Essentials

Make a box of essentials and label it "Open Me First." Put this box to the side to be loaded last (so it's unloaded first) or move it yourself. Your essentials box may include:

    For Children: Coloring books & crayons, Favorite Toys, Books, Puzzles,

       Blanket & Pillow;

    Food: Instant coffee, tea, chocolate, raisins, fresh fruit sandwich spreads,

       jars of cheese;

    Basic Tools: flashlights, pocket knife, hammer, screwdrivers, nails,

       masking tape, tape measure and light bulbs;

    Bathroom essentials: hand towels, wash cloths, soap, toilet paper,

       shampoo and a shower curtain;

    Kitchen goodies: coffeemaker and filters, paper plates and cups, plastic

       utensils, pet  foods, dishes and trash bags;

    Cleaning supplies: kitchen cleanser, dish towels, paper towels, dish cloth,

       steel wool pads, sponge, glass cleaner  etc.    

   If You Use A Moving Company

    Make a master list of all household items and your belongings.

    Ask your mover if you can leave clothes in the dresser drawers. Find out

       from the movers how they want hanging clothes packed.

    Number boxes when they are packed and sealed.  Clearly indicate on the 

       box its room destination.

    Remove all breakables from drawers before moving the furniture.

  Please Do Not Pack The Following If Hiring A Moving Company