Moving Tips

• Take Notes
  Make a note of your shipment registration number and keep it with you in case you need to call your mover with questions about your shipment.
• Prepare for a Good Night's Sleep
  Designate one drawer of a dresser or other piece of furniture for sheets and towels so that you won't have to rummage through boxes for these essentials the first night in your new home.
• Don't forget about the Fridge
  After you've thoroughly cleaned and dried the inside of your refrigerator, put an open box of baking soda inside to keep it fresh.
• Keep the Phone Book
  Take your current phone book with you.
• Have a Variety of Box Sizes
  Pack heavy items in small boxes and lighter items in larger boxes, so that they're easily lifted.
• Give out your Number
  Before the moving van leaves for your destination residence, give him a phone number where you can be reached, and cell phone numbers if possible. It is also a good idea to provide him with an alternate contact in case you can't be reached.
• Protect Your Memories
  If it's irreplaceable, take it with you in the car (you don't want regrets later). But if you do decide to pack framed photos or art, place sheets or blankets between them for added protection.
• Know how to Pack Plates and Records
  Plates and record albums should be packed on end vertically, rather than placed flat and stacked.
• Remember the Bare Necessities
  Toilet paper, telephone, toiletries, snacks, coffee (and pot), soap, flashlight, screwdriver, pliers, can opener, paper plates, cups, utensils, a couple of pans, and paper towels are some of the essentials you may need upon arrival at your new home. Pack a box with these types of items and ask your van foreman to load it last so that it will be unloaded first.
• Make a Floor Plan
  Make a floor plan of each room in your new residence, and determine in advance which furnishings and boxes will go where. Clearly label each room, and mark each box with a corresponding number or description. Then post copies of the floor plan at the entrance to each room in the new house.
• Unscrew Bulbs
  Remove bulbs before packing your lamps.
• Plan a Garage Sale
  If you haven't used it in a year, you don't need it! Save yourself the money and time, and have a garage sale. Use the proceeds to decorate your new home, or your kids for helping out.
• Give the Kids an Exercise
  Have children write their names and new address on the cartons from their rooms so they can become familiar with their new street and town. Labels with your new address and phone number will come in handy as they begin school in a new town.
• Help your Pet Relax
  Keep your pet calm and away from all the activity on moving day by arranging for a friend to watch him at their house.
• Careful with the Plants
  When moving plants to your new residence via your car, try not to let foliage rest against the windows, as the leaves will scorch. Consider covering them with a sheet.
• Take a Break from the Computer
  Upon arrival at your new home, let your computer "acclimate" itself to room temperature before plugging it in.