1. Cushion the bottom and sides of boxes first.

2. Packed items should not exceed 30 pounds. When packing, go room-by-room.

3. Begin your packing as early in the moving process as you can.

4. Label all boxes - by item, condition of that item, and where in your new home it should be placed.

5. Pack heavy items in smaller boxes and light items in larger boxes.

6. Thoroughly wrap your "breakables" in newsprint paper, paper towels, or clothes, placing them in dresser drawers, containers with lids, large cans, etc.

7. Tape cords underneath all electrical appliances.

8. Don't tape furniture doors and drawers as tape can cause damage - instead, use rope or elastic to secure furniture.

9. If you have children, let them feel they are a part of the process by helping them to pack their toys.  If you're using a professional mover, you may want to leave lamps, china, and artwork for them to pack.

10. Fill one box with moving-day essentials like paper plates, coffee maker (and coffee), hand tools and extension cords, bucket, rags, soaps, and paper towels. You may also want to set aside a few days worth of clothes, food, and other essentials you’ll need prior to the movers arriving at your new home and prior to unpacking.

11. Never pack combustibles, flammables, corrosive liquids (including household cleaners), jewelry, and important papers or medicine.

ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS® and/or their suppliers, 1995-99.  All rights reserved.