Tips and Tricks for an Organized Move 2/5

Relocation always makes the list of the most stressful events in our lives. Whether the move is triggered by positive or negative events, moving means tearing up roots and plunging into the unfamiliar. So, while no move is painless, the pain can be minimized. Here are some excellent suggestions, with my own notes added...

Tips and Tricks for an Organized Move

by: Maria Gracia

Worried because you're moving soon? Relocation really doesn't have to be a stressful, chaotic time. Here are some tips to help you achieve a successful, organized move.

part 2 of 5

6. BOX IT. Get boxes in assorted sizes. Be sure they're clean, in good condition and have covers so they can be closed and sealed with tape. Start collecting them from your local merchants, or purchase them from your moving company. Liquor boxes are excellent. They are sturdy and contain dividers making them ideal for packing glasses, goblets, vases, etc.--but make sure these boxes have lids. By the way, an easy way to store boxes so they do not take up storage space is to open both ends and flatten them out. Cartons can be resealed with tape as you use them.

Note: Check your Yellow Pages for warehouse and distribution facilities for local chain stores. When we moved, we got dozens of very sturdy boxes the warehouse used to send clothes back and forth from the stores. All at no cost...

7. USE THE A-B-C SYSTEM. Everything you pack does not have to be unpacked the first day in your new home. If it contains essential items, mark it PRIORITY A. If the contents are important, but not crucial, mark the box PRIORITY B. If the box contains out of season items, holiday items and other things you won't need right away, mark the box PRIORITY C. Then, unpack in A, B, C order.

8. WRAP IT. You will need plenty of wrapping paper and heavy-duty tape. Anything wrapped in newsprint will most likely be soiled from the ink and will require cleaning after unpacking. Movers use unprinted newsprint. For items you prefer to keep clean, you can purchase this packing paper from your mover. Kraft paper, tissue paper and shock-resistant corrugated paper make excellent wrapping materials and may be purchased at most major department stores, craft stores or your mover. These papers also make excellent cushioning and lining material.

9. MARK IT. Felt pens are ideal for marking boxes with information such as its contents, destination room, fragile or this side up.

10. LABEL IT. As you're packing, place removable, colored, circle stickers on your boxes to easily distinguish kitchen items, from bedroom items, from bathroom items, etc. Use a different color for each room. If necessary, make a master list so you'll know what is in each box. If you can go to your new home ahead of time, you may wish to stick a corresponding colored sticker on the door, or door frame, of the room that the box will be delivered to.

About The Author

Want to get organized? Get your FREE Get Organized Now! Idea-Pak, filled with tips and ideas to help you organize your home, your office and your life, at the Get Organized Now! Web site. http://www.getorganizednow.com

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