Being prepared before you jump into the task of packing up your house can make all the difference. Having everything you need to pack your belongings can save you valuable time and energy.
The first and most obvious thing that you will need is moving boxes. These can be purchased from your local moving or storage company or they can be acquired through more resourceful means. Empty boxes are often available for free from your local grocery store or pharmacy, provided you ask for them in advance so they save them for you rather than recycle them.
Many moving companies' Web sites offer handy tools to help you estimate how many boxes you'll need for your move. Whether you plan on using the company or not, the tools are free. A general rule of thumb is to use smaller boxes for heavy items such as books, while larger boxes can be used for lighter items such as pillows and comforters. Boxes purchased from moving companies are often labeled with ideas of what type of items the box is most appropriate for.
You will also want to stock up on other packing supplies, such as bubble wrap, cellophane, filler paper (or newspaper), packing tape, twine, moving blankets, permanent markers for labeling and more. Make a list of all the packing supplies you anticipate needing before you head out to pick them up.
Stay organized by packing things that belong together or in the same room in the same boxes. For example, pack carefully wrapped living room knick knacks in the same box as lamps or books that belong in the living room. Pack pots and pans together, dishes and glassware together, tools and garage/storage items together and so on. If you end up with half-empty boxes, simply use light yet bulky items (such as towels, sheets, pillows, etc.) to take up the rest of the box space. These types of items can double as extra protection for breakables. If you're all out of towels and such to pack, simply use scrunched up newspaper or bubble wrap to ensure the boxes are packed well.
Special boxes on which you can hang clothing hangers are available to facilitate packing the contents of your closet. When packing up your kitchen, consider how long your boxes will be in transit before packing any perishables. Also, start packing the items you rarely use first. Leave items you use on a daily basis---such as the coffeemaker---to be packed on the day of your move.
As you pack each box, label its contents in big black permanent marker letters on the side. Also, consider which particular room the box should be placed in when unloaded from the moving truck upon arrival at your final destination. Mark the designated room the box belongs in on the side of the carton as well. Having every single box and large piece of furniture labeled will make it easier for movers or friends and family who are helping know where to put everything.
