Consolidate cleaning supplies. If you must clean your old place after moving out, put together a kit of basic cleaning supplies and rags. We stored this in a kitchen wastebasket, so we could easily move it down to the car when we were finished. Clean anything possible ahead of time (the inside of kitchen cupboards, the oven, windows, etc.), and if possible, vacuum each room as movers empty it.
Use your luggage. Fill luggage and duffle bags with clothing, sheets, towels, and paper goods. Even for local moves you'll be able to quickly spot your navy suitcase holding your favorite sweaters, whereas "Box #189" might remain elusive for days.
Strategize wardrobe box use. A few days before your move, fill some sturdy handled shopping bags with bulky closet items such as shoes, sweaters, belts, and jeans. On moving day, fill the bottom of the wardrobe boxes with some of the shopping bags, then add your hanging clothing. Pack hanging items in tightly so things won't move around and fall off of hangers. Finally, cover the shoulders of your clothes (a dry cleaning bag works well), and then add a few purses or sweater on top. You'll have fewer boxes, and closet items remain together. Also, the shopping bags will make it easier to retrieve your belongings from the bottoms of a tall wardrobe box.
Safeguard valued items. Silverware, collections, antiques -- take smaller items with you if you can, or bury them in a box titled "Misc. from kitchen pantry". Either way, check your homeowner's insurance to see how you are covered during the move, and if you need additional insurance from the mover. Also, what paperwork (receipts, appraisals, and photos) might be needed in case of loss.
Keep important papers with you. Picture this: The truck left a few hours ago. It's now 2am, there's water all over your new kitchen floor, and you need your homeowner warranty policy number to call for help. Do you want to paw through 15 "office" boxes -- or just reach into your briefcase to find what you need? Your list of "important" papers might include: birth certificates, school records, mover estimates, new job contacts, utility company numbers, recent bank records, current bills, phone lists, closing papers, realtor info, maps, and more.
Personal boxes. Use brightly colored storage tote boxes, one for each person. Let each family member fill theirs with items they'll want 'right away' in the new home. I filled mine with a set of sheets, a towel, a couple of extension cords, a phone, nightlights, address book, pens and paper, keys, Kleenex, and travel cosmetic case, and took this in the car to our new home.
Moving may not be the most fun you've ever had, but planning ahead will go a long way toward making the process bearable.
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