~ Create a mobile packing station using a small carrying desk organizer. Include retractable Sharpies, scissors and packing tape.

~ Large boxes can be too big to carry. Opt for smaller, free ones from your local grocery stores.

~ If you’d like to reuse your boxes, consider using index cards and packing tape instead of writing directly on the box.

~ Estimate and set a daily goal of packing boxes. For example, if you’re expecting to move in 30 days and you think your entire house takes about 60 boxes, try to pack 2 boxes per day. This is way more manageable and less overwhelming of a project. It also allows you to stay organized and sort/donate.

~ Label the sides of the boxes, NOT the top.

~ Label your boxes well. Include the room that you want them DROPPED OFF in.

~ Pack socks into boots and shoes.

~ Put paper plates between your breakable plates and put coffee filters between your bowls.

~ Tape screws and bolts to the back of furniture, curtain rods….etc.

~ For the clothes hanging in your closet, use garbage bags to wrap them in bundles (about 10-15 hangers). Place the garbage bag at the bottom of the clothes and wrap upward putting the hangers through the top of the bag and tie together.

~Let people help. If they offer, accept it. Even if you don’t think they’d pack or move a box exactly as you would, it will be much better than doing it alone.

~ Designate someone other than yourself to provide food and drinks for everyone. It can be as easy as fruit, water bottles and pizza. Keep the help happy!

~ Create an “Open First” box: toilet paper, paper towels, scissors, toothbrush & toothpaste, shampoo, soap, towels, pajamas, and an outfit for the next day.

~ At your new residence, label each room with sticky notes so your helpers know where to place boxes.

~ AnyTHING that gets broken during a move can be replaced or doesn’t matter as much as the beloved people helping and supporting you.

~ Let others unpack boxes. You can move things around later. At least you won’t be surrounded by boxes.

~ Keep cleaning supplies in its own box and pack it last. If your new and/or old residence needs to be cleaned, you’ll want all the cleaning supplies in one place.