First get your packing supplies together. You will need boxes of various sizes, tape, markers, newspaper and bubble wrap. Your packing boxes should be strong and sturdy. Do not use boxes that have been damaged from rain or that are bent from overuse. Packing tape should be used for closing up the boxes. Do not use masking tape or scotch because these types of tapes will not stick well to the boxes. A marker is needed to clearly label the boxes after taping. Also newspaper and bubble wrap are both great to have on-hand when packing up fragile items, such as dishes, glassware and pictures.
Once you are ready to start packing boxes, you need to choose one room and completely finish packing that room before moving on to another. Get your boxes out and start by taping the bottoms securely to prevent any items from falling out. Tape the bottom flaps with a couple of strips of tape and then tape across in the opposite direction with at least two strips of tape. Once you have secured the bottom of the box, place some of your heavier items in the bottom and the light items on the top. Be sure not to overfill.
Tape the top of the box after filling and label the box. Items from the kitchen should be labeled box "kitchen" and "fragile" if they contain breakable items.
Find a room or designated area to begin stacking your filled boxes. Pack items that you use on a daily basis last so you are not searching through the boxes for them later.
Pack items firmly to keep them from shifting around and breaking. Use blankets and towels for padding larger fragile items. Place clothes in large garment boxes labeled with the family member's name.
Pack books in smaller boxes due to their weight. Wrap ceramic items with lids carefully and separately.
Before packing, clean major appliances. Unplug the refrigerator and let the freezer defrost for 24 hours prior to moving. Tape the doors closed on appliances. Check your owner's manual for proper disconnection and reconnection of appliances.
Finally, be sure to contact the utility company for both the new and old address and set up the date to have the utilities turned on at the new address when you arrive and have the utilities turned off at the old address after moving day.
Go to the post office and fill out a change of address form or go to the United States Postal Service website to change your address. Notify your friends, family, employer, banking institution, doctor, dentist, credit card companies, voter registration, Department of Motor Vehicles, and other businesses and institutions of your new address.
