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Moving can be extremely stressful, but don't let it get you down. Packing and then unpacking is probably the worst thing. The following tips will help make that chore easier on both ends.
Boxes are an absolute must. Most store managers will be happy to have you take some of their empty boxes home for packing or you can talk to a moving company and buy some specialized boxes for clothing and breakables. Make sure you have more than you think you will need. It is far better to pack and move a box that is half-empty, than to have to struggle with an overfull box that strains your back. Remember the boxes will seem to be heavier when you are unloading them. That is one of Murphy's laws regarding moving.
Now to packing your possessions. You will want to pack your glassware and knick-knacks first. This gets them out of the way, and will help in the long run. You can use newspaper to wrap each and every piece, or you can use linens to wrap them. Don't forget to leave enough out for use until the day you leave. If you choose to use newspaper remember you will need to wash everything before unpacking it.
Don't pack too much in one box, this especially applies to books and other heavy items. It is far better to carry several lightweight boxes that are movable by one person than it is to have a single box that needs two people to move.
Label each box with the name of the room it came from, you don't need to get too specific with your labels, simple labels such as knickknacks, living room will be descriptive enough. Don't carry a box from room to room packing it until full. Pack each box with things that only go in that room. This will save headaches when you get to your new home. If you need to store your packed boxes for a period of time before you get into your new home, having a label that tells you what room the items in it were in before you packed will lessen the confusion when unpacking. The only exception will be the last two boxes you pack.
The next to last box you pack should contain glasses, plates, bowls, silverware, and a few cans of quick dinners, breakfasts, etc., along with a pan to cook in. Don't forget to put the can opener in this box. You will also want to put a change of clothes for each member of the family, and personal items such as toothbrushes, deodorant and a couple of towels. The last thing you want to be doing when you get to your new home is looking for the box with all the cups in so you can have a drink. Label this box in large letters that are a different color than other boxes to make it easy to find when you get to your new home. If possible don't transport this box with the others, carry it in your car with you.
The very last box you pack should be a gleaning box only, go through the house with an empty box after everything else is in the truck. Look for forgotten items, in drawers, on shelves and in closets. Don't forget the broom and cleaners you used.
Pets pose a unique set of problems. Leave your pet's dishes, bedding and special toys in a room after it is packed and emptied then shut your pet(s) up. You don't want to take the chance of having to chase your pet down when you are ready to leave. Cats should never be let outside when you get to your new home for at least a week. This will accustom them to the new home, and they will be less inclined to try and make their way back to the old house. When you do let your cat outside again, make sure they have a collar and tags with your new address and phone number on it.
Try to schedule your move when you will be able to take a few days off of work. This will also lessen the stress of moving. Packing and moving after you have worked all day is very hard and will add to your stress level. Try to remember that you don't have to have a perfect house when you first move in. Take your time unpacking, it will be easier in the long run.
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