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Prepare for Moving Day Checklist

1. Begin early
Even if you think you're fast or don't have much, packing always takes longer than you imagine. Start two or three weeks before the big day. Pack things you use least first. I always begin with Dishes and books.

2. Pack tactically
Mark boxes you will need first with a star or other symbol. Place belongings you will need on Day One such as sheets, towels, toiletries, clothes change in a suitcase for easy access.

3. A packing room
Select a space in your house's corner to serve as the packing station. Build boxes of different sizes so they're easy to grab. Ease of access is essential. Keep on hand some thick markers, packing tape, and packing materials such as bubble wrap, popcorn, and newsprint packing paper.

4. Save on boxes
You can find used containers in a move to be greener by saving shipping boxes you receive or picking some up at your local grocery store. Many places that receive boxes regularly will be happy to donate them at no cost.

5. Don't overload cartons
Numerous self-movers think a large box is for the heaviest stuff, but it's quite the opposite. Overflow large boxes with light stuff, and put bulky items in small cartons. You would be astonished how many people fill large boxes until they are over the weight the box can handle and break.

6. Use space
Many people empty bureaus and cabinets; this only adds to packing time and wastes usable truck space. Leave suitcase and dressers filled with clothing. If a chest is empty, fill it with linens and sheets. You will also use fewer boxes, save time and money using this approach.

7. Trash bags are not trash
Cartons are excellent because they stack, but so are strong trash bags, and you can stick them almost anywhere. Fill large garbage bags with soft non-breakables. You can pack them into shapes that boxes can't go.

8. Back seat of the car
Why pack hanging clothes when they can take a ride in the car. Keep them on hangers and put them in the back of your vehicle lying flat. Then put them back up in your closet in your new home.

9. Grab the towels
Don't pack towels; use them as pads and save on boxes. Use a throw to wrap artwork and lamps and tape to secure. Carefully stack and pack lampshades; they often take a whipping during a relocation. Remove each shade; stack them small to large, put them together in one box to guarantee they land whole.

10. Label everything
Mark every box with its contents and destination for a faster unload. Please take notice of fragile items to give them special attention.

11. Ready to go
Have everything prepared before bringing a truck or the movers arrive. Disassemble furniture as necessary, keeping track of each piece of furniture's nuts and bolts. Roll-up rugs tight and tape them off on the ends. The more prepared you are, the less time you will need the rental truck, and most movers charge by the hour.