Get prepared early, the start of a move begins anywhere from 30 – 60 days before the move actually happens.

If using a moving company, make sure you book your move well in advance especially in summer or peak periods. Never wait to book towards the end of the month especially in the summer. Many moving companies are booked solid by then.

The rule of thumb is if you haven’t used it or touched it for four months, consider getting rid of it. Handle your move like it’s spring-cleaning.

Get plenty of boxes in all different sizes, in fact get more boxes than you think you need. Put together a packing kit with one of those boxes. Things which it can contain are markers, labels, and packaging tape. Also, many customers have a lot of luck just collecting plastic bins and totes from garage sales, these make for easy packing especially when it comes to clothing.

No box should be without a label. Make sure to label clearly and on as many sides as possible. Your never sure which way the boxes will be facing after a move. Having an open first box is always a life saver. Like to watch TV while unpacking? Where is the remote?

To save on time and money, always try to have as much preparation done for you movers. If you live in a home with an attached garage, consider moving boxes and other things into the garage. The less time it takes to load your household belongings the more you save.

Pack birth certificates, medical records, social security cards, and other valuable documents in a box that you will personally move yourself. Jewelry, firearms and other valuables should always be moved by you.

Get a notebook, make a list of all the transfers that need to be made. Utilities transferred, school records, and doctor changes should be done well in advanced. Did you call Cable, Phone, and Electric? Plan in advance to get the services hooked up for a smooth transition.

Stack dishes vertically, they have a higher risk of breaking when packed horizontally. Make sure you have plenty of cushion when it comes to wrapping, using bubble-wrap and packing paper