When your moving date creeps closer and closer, the mere thought of packing up can be daunting. Putting all your belongings into boxes just so that they can be taken out again is nobody's favorite activity, so we found some amazing moving tips that will make going to a new place easier than you ever thought possible. Check out these ingenious moving hacks below.

1. Slide clothes on hangers directly into garbage bags.
Unpacking will be a breeze.

2. Put cotton balls in your makeup compacts so they don't break.
They act as a cushion inside of fragile powder cosmetics.

3. Use toilet paper rolls to organize your cords.
Keep wires organized by wrapping each cord up and stuffing it inside an empty roll.

4. Take pictures of your house before you move in.
If you're a renter, make sure you document exactly how your house looks when you move in. You want that deposit back!

5. Wrap breakable dishware in your shirts.
Not only are you saving on bubble wrap, but you're also packing multiple items at once.

6. Use Unpakt to save money.

This awesome website will compare all of the movers in the area to help you find the lowest cost.

7. Cover all bottles of liquid (shampoo, cleaning supplies, etc.) with plastic wrap before putting the top on.
Avoid messy explosions.

8. Color-code your boxes.
You will know exactly where everything goes.

9. If your painter's tape is dried up, put it in the microwave for a few seconds.
It will become sticky again.

10. Use suitcases for your heaviest items.
The handles and wheels will make for easy transportation.

11. Cut handles into the sides of cardboard boxes for easy lifting.
All you have to do is cut a rectangular shape on either side of the box.

12. Pack a separate small bag with all of your basics.
Chances are you won't unpack everything in one day, so make sure you have everything you need for one night easily accessible.

13. Fill nail holes with toothpaste.
It's the quick and cheap way to cover up all of those holes. Check out the video tutorial below.

14. Change your address in advance.
Make sure to take care of this pesky chore at least two weeks before move-out.

15. Defrost your fridge a day before moving out.
Avoid all kinds of leaks and nasty smells by doing this at least a day ahead of time.

16. Keep track of your moving expenses; some of them are tax-deductible.
Move now, save money later.

17. Stack plates with Styrofoam plates in between one another.
It's an easy and cheap way to make sure your plates don't break.

18. Roll up your clothes.
Instead of folding clothes, roll them all up to save lots of space.

19. Wrap a rubber band around your doorknob so you don't get locked out.
Wrap around one doorknob, then cross it over to the doorknob on the other side so that the lock is blocked. When you are going in and out of your house, you won't have to worry about being locked out.

20. Put towels underneath heavy furniture to avoid ruining floors.
The furniture will also slide away very easily.

21. Label your boxes on the side, not the top.
When you stack them, you will always be able to see what's inside.

22. Use sandwich bags for small important items like screws.
When you go to put a bed frame or bookshelf back together, they'll all be in the same place.

23. Find free moving boxes on the Craigslist "free" section.
You can also ask for boxes at local stores; they often have lots of leftovers.

24. Make sure to use the Moving Day app.

These great moving tips found at: http://www.popsugar.com/smart-living/Moving-Hacks-Make-Packing-Easy-35362851

Who can't use some moving tips when they're packing up their whole life for a new home? If you're among thousands of people who have picked up and moved their family to a new home or a new community, you have fresh memories of some of the ups and downs or thrills or frustrations of moving.

Drawing from personal experience, I know there are lots of ways to help make your household move easier and more smooth.

Read here for help to get your life, and your possessions, organized for a peaceful and exciting move.

Make a list.
Write everything down! You'll thank yourself later. Before you pack even one box, create a simple record keeping system. Create a computer-printed list of numbers with a space to write the contents.

Or have a spiral-bound notebook for the job. You'll place a number on EVERY box you pack and list the contents on your list. Don't put the list down unless it's in a place you'll call Packing Central. This is where you'll find your labels, marking pens, box tape, and other supplies. When describing the box contents, be specific -- "A-D files" is better than "files", and "Tulip dishes" rather than "misc. kitchen".

Have plenty of supplies.
Don't make me say this twice-- you'll need LOTS of boxes--probably more boxes than you think, and having enough boxes will make your life easier! (If you buy your boxes from a moving company, you can always return unused boxes for a refund. If you got them free from the grocery, just toss any leftovers.) Have about 10 boxes set aside to use for last minute items on moving day, such as bedding, clothing, and cleaning supplies.

You'll need strong plastic packing tape to close up the boxes securely. Use unprinted newsprint (newspaper can stain your items) or packing paper or bubble wrap to wrap and cushion household good. Again, you'll need lots more supplies than you think, so get extra so the packing can go smoothly. Return any unused supplies after the truck is packed.

Utilize wardrobe boxes.
These tall boxes are perfect for bulky, lightweight items such as comforters, pillows, and blankets, as well as clothes that need to remain hanging. Call your mover to ask the width of the wardrobe boxes they'll be bringing. Then measure the clothes in your closets (including coat closets) to see how many wardrobe boxes you'll need. You can also use them for closet storage boxes, shoe boxes, and other bulky items such as fabric bolts, large baskets, or gift wrap tubes.

Don't make the boxes too heavy to lift, however. One mover told the story of someone who put a bowling ball in a wardrobe box! When the box was lifted off the truck the bottom gave way, sending the bowling ball on a wild ride down the ramp, across the street to the gutter, then down a hill where it finally came to rest in a roadside ditch.

(Is that a strike or a spare?)

Strategize wardrobe box use.
Moving companies will be happy to deliver boxes ahead of your moving day. Or if you're doing the move yourself, get things organized as early as possible. A few days before your move, fill some sturdy handled shopping bags with bulky closet items such as shoes, sweaters, belts, and jeans. On moving day, fill the bottom of the wardrobe boxes with some of the shopping bags, then add your hanging clothing. Pack hanging items tightly so things won't move around and fall off of hangers. Finally, cover the shoulders of your clothes (a dry cleaning bag works well), then add a few purses or sweaters on top. You'll have fewer boxes, and closet items remain together.

Article found first at:  http://interiordec.about.com/od/moving/a/org_movetips.htm

2 Months Before your move

• Create a file or binder for moving: Download and print our moving checklist, add a notepad, and keep all of your estimates, receipts, and inventory list in one place.
• Research moving companies: Go online, talk to your friends and family, and get ready for visits from the movers as they create estimates. Get each estimate in writing.
• Start student transfers: Visit your kids’ school to have their student records transferred to the new school district.
• Organize your stuff to sell, donate, throw away, or keep: You’ll be doing this up to the final days, but create a dedicated area and start making a donation pile, now.

6 weeks before your move

• Buy your supplies: You’ll need markers labels, tape, bubble wrap, specialty boxes for dishes, a box cutter, and maybe blankets and furniture wrap, too.
• Schedule time off for moving day: Or make it two days, if you prefer. But get your time-off request in early to ensure it’s approved.
• Measure twice, move once: Take note of furniture sizes and room dimensions to avoid damage to your doors and figure out where everything goes before it gets there.

1 month before your move

• Confirm your moving day: Reach out to your movers (or your friends) to confirm the date and the costs. This is a good time to plan for tips or refreshments, too.
• Submit your change-of-address form: Visit USPS.com, or drop by your local post office and fill out the change-of-address form.
• Contact your utility companies: Schedule your service changes early. Try to overlap connections by a day or two so you have electricity, water, and connectivity in both your old home and your new one. U-verse customers can schedule their move right now at att.com/move.
• Start packing: Begin with the things you aren’t using, and label the sides of every box for easy drop-off and unpacking. For any special items, add a value estimate to your inventory list.
• Create a first-day box: Provide easy access to the things you’ll need first: charging cords, travel supplies (like your toothbrush, toilet paper, and daily medications), a box cutter, and garbage bags. Add a bare-bones kitchen set for simple cooking.

2 weeks before your move

• Finish your notifications: Give your new address and phone number to your human resources department and manager. Forward your medical records to your new doctor. Transfer your magazine subscriptions. Update your credit card and insurance details.
• Get your car ready, too: Especially if you’re traveling a long way to your new home, bring your car in for a tune-up and a tire check.
• Update your bank: Order new checks, and transfer your safety deposit box contents to your new local bank.
• Schedule donation pickup: Your donations should be out of your way a few days before you move. If you’re getting rid of electronics, you’ll find specialty services for safe handling and recycling.
• Reduce your food supplies: Toss any pantry items more than six months old. Get rid of stale spices. Cook and use what’s in your freezer, and reduce your stock of fresh food. If you’re not eating it, don’t move it; donate it!

1 week before your move

• Prepare your new home: Stop by the new place and set up the bathroom with a shower curtain, towels, and toiletries. Bring sponges, towels, and dish soap for the kitchen.
• Transfer and refill your prescriptions: Set up your new pharmacy information, and make sure you’ve got medications for the next two weeks to a month.
• Use those suitcases: Think of your first few days in your new home as travel time. Pack a few sets of clothes so you aren’t hunting through boxes when you move in.
• Take a break and catch up on your DVR recordings: If you’re already with U-verse TV, your recordings will move with you. Even so, you can’t spend all of your time packing!

A few days before your move

• Confirm your moving details: Check in with your movers on the date and time, and make sure they have your contact information.
• Defrost the freezer: And clean out the fridge while you’re at it. You’ll be glad you didn’t wait to clean this until after your move.
• Make sure your movers’ payment is ready: Even the best estimates aren’t perfect—plan for a higher payment if the move takes longer than expected, and don’t forget the tip. Provide cold water and snacks for your helpers.
  

Moving day

• Check and confirm your inventory: Before the movers leave, sign the bill of lading or inventory list and keep a copy.
• Verify the details: Make sure the movers have your new address, cross-check their estimate sheet against your copy, and ask if their time frame is flexible, just in case the move takes more time.
• Supervise: Call out any delicate items that need safe handling. Direct traffic when the movers reach your new home. Other than that, stay out of the way and let the movers do their thing.
  

This useful article was found at: https://www.att.com/shop/movers/moving-checklist.html


When was the last time you were inside a home that had no pieces of electronics in it? Do you remember ever being inside such a residence?

With the evolution and ever-presence of technology in our daily lives, it’s hard to imagine that a modern house or apartment can be devoid of at least one TV set, or a personal computer of some sort – a desktop, or a laptop. Needless to say, most homes during the Information Age have much more pieces of electronics – audio systems, home theater systems, gaming consoles, computer peripheral devices – monitors, printers, scanners, projectors, and so on.

And if you happen to be facing a house move anytime soon, then the question of how to pack electronics for moving so that your expensive gadgets arrive in your new home in one piece, and in good working order, becomes essential. Yes, most electronic devices are too fragile and can be easily damaged if you fail to take the necessary safety steps when packing them for shipping.
What to know and what to have when packing electronics for moving

The good news is that when packing electronics for moving, you won’t have to worry about the handheld devices you own (smartphones, tablets, or another portable gadget) as 1) they will stay with your throughout the move, and 2) they should already be well protected by their respective cases. And in addition to the protective cases, pouches, or bags, your pockets and carry-on bags will serve as another level of protection during the often chaotic period of house relocation.

So, before we move on to explain how you should prepare your electronic devices for packing, let’s say a few words about what type of packing materials you will need for the electronics packing task ahead of you.

Original packages. If you keep the original packages that your various electronic devices came in, then you have little to worry about. Original packing boxes are designed to best protect the products that leave their respective production factories, so you can be sure that such packages will do an excellent job protecting your electronics while you’re moving to a new home. If you don’t keep those packages, then you will need to find other packing boxes that are just big enough to accommodate your separate pieces of electronic equipment. Local moving companies should have special electronics boxes which provide improved protection (thicker cardboard and double walls) and come in different shapes and sizes.

Bubble wrap. It’s important to know that bubble wrap is your best bet when packing your electronics for moving as it creates an outstanding cushioning effect against unfavorable factors during transit. Opt for anti-static bubble wrap to also avoid the possible harmful effects of static electricity on your electronic devices.

Packing paper. Soft packing paper is a must when you’re packing electronics for a move, for it will keep dust from entering the packed gadgets and will serve as a cushion against external impacts at the same time.

How to prepare your electronics for packing

Before you’re ready to pack your electronics for moving, you will need to make sure that your equipment is ready to be packed up safely for the road ahead.

Before you disconnect an electronic device, take a photo with your smartphone or digital camera of how the cables are connected and wired up, especially if there are numerous cords coming in and going out of the equipment piece. This way, you will save loads of time and nerves when you reach the re-connection moment after the move is over. And, of course, you will eliminate the possibility of damage due to improper installation.

Roll up and secure the disconnected cables with rubber bands or zip ties to avoid possible entanglement during the house move.

It’s a good idea to backup important information from computer storage devices such as HDD or SSD drives. Use online storage, an external hard drive or a flash memory stick to keep essential files safe from the unpredictability of a residential move.

Consider removing the batteries from specific electronic devices if you think there’s a chance of battery leakage or if you’re moving during very hot spells in the summer.

Also, if you’re taking your printer with you, consider removing its ink or toner cartridges to prevent spills.

If you’re about to move very expensive electronic equipment to your new home, speak with your moving company for adequate insurance coverage to stay on the safe side of things.

MUST READ: Should I get moving insurance?
How to pack electronics for moving

Once you have the necessary packing supplies and have completed the pre-packing steps, it’s time to get down to work. Here are the successive steps and tips for packing electronics for moving.

Step 1: Use soft wrapping paper or newsprint to create a protective cushioning layer on the bottom of each electronics box. That layer will actually absorb the vibrations and shocks along the way and will thus keep the piece of electronics safe and sound.

Step 2: Again, use soft packing paper to wrap up an electronic device first and then use packing tape to secure the bundle.

Step 3: The electronics packing checklist continues with the most important protective layer of them all – the bubble wrap layer. The air-filled bubbles should provide the ultimate level of safety but you need to make sure the bubble wrap sheet is well secured over the piece of fragile and sensitive equipment – use tape generously.

Step 4: If you intend to pack more than one pieces of electronics in a single cardboard box, then remember to place the heavier and larger device on the bottom, and then keep the lighter and smaller pieces on top of them.

Step 5: To avoid damage, there shouldn’t be any empty spaces inside a box once the electronic pieces have been packed in it. Shifts are highly undesirable so fill all visible holes with paper or pieces of clothing.

Step 6: If available, user manuals or other relevant documents or spare parts should be kept inside their respective boxes for easier re-installation after the relocation.

Step 7: Before closing up the lids of a cardboard box, be sure to place protective sheets of bubble wrap and/or packing paper on the very top to complete the cushioning protection on the bottom.

Step 8. Seal a packed boxed with quality packing tape, including its bottom.

Step 9. Use a soft marker pen to write the contents, destination room and handling instructions on each electronics packaging box, for example: SCANNER, LIVING ROOM, FRAGILE, THIS SIDE UP.

Step 10. Don’t be quick to plug in an electronic device right after you find yourself in your new home but give it enough time to acclimate to the different temperature and humidity values.

Read more: http://moving.tips/packing-tips/pack-electronics-when-moving/

Moving Tips

Best Packing Tip.  Write the destination of each box on it’s sides – not the tops – of the box.  A list of what is in the box is also helpful.

Don’t forget to lable small pieces of furniture while you are moving.  It will help movers recognize the new home for that furniture when you reach your destination.

Use styrofoam plates to help you pack and move glass plates carefully, and safetly.

Stay sane during a move – color coordinate moving boxes with a guide using color dots.

Stay safe while you move and secure dangerous tools with the help of some padding – like a pool noodle.  We love pool noodle hacks!

Did you discover you have a ton of junk?  Have a yard sale that will help you declutter and move less stuff.

How to move and stay sane

Make it easier to move large mirrors.  They will be less prone to breaking if you reinforce the glass with a couple of strips of painters tape.

Before you put your house on the market or plan to move, clear out as many of the knick-knacks from your counters and surfaces.  Box these up in advance to make your house one step closer to show-ready.

Don’t break your back.  Use smaller boxes for the heavier items.  Big boxes for the light bulky things.

Moving Made Easy

Take a picture of the back of your computers, TVs, internet routers, etc.  Seeing where the wires are supposed to go will help you settle into your new home even faster.

Don’t let yourself get overwhelmed.  Start with trying to do one box a day from each room.  Box up the things that you don’t use regularly first.

Set aside a wall or a large closet as your “box destination” as you are packing.  Put the heavier boxes in the closet first and the lighter ones on top.

Get organized Moving

Make a map of the layout of the rooms and where you want furniture and boxes to go.  This will help allieviate tensions on your big move day.

Announce your move with a card to all your pals.  Share your new address and ask if they want to join you for a packing party!

Make a good impression on the people who will be moving into your home when you leave.  No stinky fridges or freezers!  Put a open box of baking soda in them as you leave.

Be sure to empty the fluids out of your yard tools, lawnmowers, weedwhackers, etc.  This will make them both lighter to transport in a big move, but also a lot more clean.

Color code your boxes to save time – instead of writing lables.  You can put a strip of tape around the corner of the box.  Each room has a different color of tape.  Genius.

Clean socks are PERFECT for packing material with your glasses.  A perk:  You don’t need to wash your dishes before use as you would if you had used newspaper.

Read more: http://www.onecrazyhouse.com/moving-tips/