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Develop a master “to do” list so you won’t
forget something critical.
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Sort and get rid of things you no longer want
or need. Have a garage sale, donate to a charity, or recycle.
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Don’t throw out everything. If your
inclination is to just toss it, ask yourself how frequently you use an item
and how you’d feel if you no longer had it.
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Pack like items together. Put toys with toys,
kitchen utensils with kitchen utensils.
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Decide what if anything you plan to move
yourself. Precious items, such as family photos, valuable breakables, or
must-haves during the move, should probably stay with you.
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Use the right box for the item. Loose items
encourage breakage.
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Put heavy items in small boxes so they’re
easier to lift. Keep weight under 50 lbs. if possible.
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Don’t over-pack boxes and increase the chances
they will break.
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Wrap every fragile item separately and pad
bottom and sides of boxes.
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Label every box on all sides. You never know
how they’ll be stacked and you don’t want to have to move other boxes aside
to find out what’s there.
-
Use color-coded labels to indicate which room
each item should go in. Color-code a floor plan for your new house to help
movers.
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Keep your moving documents together, including
phone numbers, driver’s name, and van number. Also keep your address book
handy.
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Back up your computer files before moving your
computer.
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Inspect each box and all furniture for damage
as soon as it arrives.
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Remember, most movers won’t take plants.
