Tips for Packing Like a Pro

·          Develop a master “to do” list so you won’t forget something critical.

·          Sort and get rid of thingsyou no longer want or need. Have a garage sale, donate to a charity, or recycle.

·          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.

·          Pack like items together. Put toys with toys, kitchen utensils with kitchen utensils.

·          Decide what you plan to move yourself. Precious items, such as family photos, valuable breakables, or must-haves during the move, should probably stay with you.>

·          Use the right box for the item. Loose items encourage breakage. 

·          Put heavy items in small boxes so they’re easier to lift. Keep weight under 50 lbs. if possible.

·          Don’t over-pack boxes and increase the chances they will break.

·          Wrap every fragile item separately and pad bottom and sides of boxes.

·          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. >

·          Keep your moving documents together, including phone numbers, driver’s name, and van number. Also keep your address book handy.

·          Back up your computer files before moving your computer.

·          Remember, most movers won’t take plants.

·          Inspect each box and all furniture for damage as soon as it arrives.

Reprinted from REALTOR^® Magazine Online by permission of the
NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS^®
Copyright 2005. All rights reserved.                        www.REALTOR.org/realtormag