Helpful Moving Tips

Twenty Expert Hints, Tips and Suggestions for a Worry-Free Move

1. Pack heavy items in small boxes, light items in larger boxes.

2. Identify the contents of boxes on the sides with a marker. Also, indicate the room they will be unpacked in.

3. Have the children write their names and new address on cartons containing their toys, etc. This will help them learn their new address before they get to their new home.

4. Plates and record albums should be packed vertically, rather than placed flat and stacked.

5. Before packing bottles, toiletry containers and jars, make sure their caps and lids are tightly secured.

6. Protect framed pictures in boxes between sheets or blankets to cushion them.

7. Wrap glassware and other fragile items in newspaper and be sure not to crowd too many items into each carton, giving each piece a secure resting place.

8. When packing your lamps, it's a good idea to remove the bulbs and pack them separately.

9. Leave one box open and mark it to be unloaded first for items you will likely need as soon as you get into your new home (e.g. tools to reassemble; toys; toiletries, and so on).

10. Take your phone book with you. You may need to make calls to residents or businesses back at your former location.

11. To keep the inside of your refrigerator smelling fresh, put a handful of fresh coffee, baking soda or charcoal in an old sock or stocking and place it inside.

12. If you need to put some of your possessions in storage, be sure to tour the warehouse where they will be kept to ensure it's clean, dry and secure.

13. If a bill of lading will be made out covering the possessions you are shipping, make a note of the registration number in the upper right corner. Keep this number with you in case you need to call your mover about your shipment.

14. When you're packing, put aside items you don't really need to take with you. Old clothes can be given to charity. Other possessions can be sold to save shipping costs. Hold a garage sale. And put price tags on all items and be prepared to wheel and deal with customers looking for bargains.

15. Before the van foreman leaves for your new home, give him a phone number where you can be reached - or a contact at another number in case you can't be reached.

16. If you have a pet, it's a good idea to have a friend or neighbor look after it during all the activity of moving day.

17. Moving plants in your car? Keep foliage away from windows on a hot sunny day to avoid scorching the leaves.

18. When your possessions arrive at your new home, you might want to hook up your TV and VCR first- to keep the kids occupied while the rest of the contents are being unloaded.

19. If you have a personal computer, when you arrive at your new home let it become acclimatized to room temperature before plugging it in.

20. Last but not least, trust the professionals to do their job while you play a supporting role, mainly by sitting back and relaxing. It doesn't pay to be uptight or over-helpful. Just think of all you have to look forward to in your new home- the new opportunities, new experiences and new friends that are part of any move.