• Boxes of all sizes
• Plastic bags
• Newspaper or bubble wrap
• Packing tape
• Markers

• Label the top and sides of all boxes with contents and the room it's going to.
   
• Start packing seldom used items as early in the process as you can.
   
• Packed items should not exceed 30 pounds.
• Pack heavy items in smaller boxes and lighter items in bigger boxes
• Thoroughly wrap your breakables in newspaper, packing paper, bubble wrap or use towels and blankets as extra padding around fragile items.
• Use "fragile" stickers on cartons requiring special care.
• Pack books on edge in small cartons.
• Tape cords under all electrical appliances.
   
• If you have children, let them feel involved by allowing them to help you pack their toys and clothes.
• Make up inventory sheets in case any boxes go missing.
• Mark "Do Not Move" on cartons you will take by car.
   

Never pack the following items:

• Combustibles
• Flammables
• Household cleaners
• Jewelry
• Medicines
• Important papers

• Remove linens from beds and pack in "open first' boxes.
• Don't forget to empty the "secret hiding places" in your home.
• Take your existing phone books to make it easier to keep in touch with old friends.
• Be considerate and give the home a final cleaning.
• Make sure to leave the spare keys and the garage door opener for the new owner.
• Remember to fill one box with moving day essentials like paper plates, utensils, cleaning supplies, extension cords, hand tools and paper towels. You may also want to set aside a few days worth of clothes, food and any other essentials you will need.
• For apartment dwellers, reserve the elevator for your moving day.

• Review your floor plan to check where you want furniture and appliances placed.
• Check to make sure utilities, including telephones are connected.
• Confine your pets to an out-of-the-way room.
• Once all items are unloaded, unpack only what you need to get started in your new home.