Among Friends

[Shanus]

@OhioAngel. *******Pack separately all important papers: insurance, wills, tax returns, checkbook, bank statements, picture albums, dvds of kids and/or special occasions and especially valuable jewelry, etc. Take these personal items with you, not in moving truck. They cannot be replaced.

[ms traditional]

beyond good labeling, working ahead in plenty of time, doing good weeding out, i always prepare an IMMEDIATE box.  this has in it what i need first night before i am into all the boxes.  it includes sheets etc for my bed, my towels, coffeemaker/coffee/cups etc for 1st a.m., paper plates and some silverware, a change of clothes and bed clothes, first night toiletries, meds, phone charger, computer, flashlight, maybe a lamp or two depending on lighting already at new abode.........well, you get the idea

[Beauty Maven]

The key to a successful move is being organized BEFORE you pack.  Get rid of as much as you can -- even more than you think you should. 

There's not much difference between short-distance and long-distance moving.  No matter how far (or short) the drive, you still have to box, load and unload -- so don't underestimate the task just because it's a short distance. 

Buy some blue painters' tape.  It comes in super handy because you can wrap cords, attach remotes to tvs, label boxes etc. and the blue tape is easily removable and doesn't leave behind any residue. 

Keep a "go to" box or bag with you at all times for things you need easy access to like keys & medication.

Establish a "miscellaneous" box for odds & ends you don't know where to put (i.e. stray cords and instruction manuals).  This makes things easier to find at the other end.

Always have cash in your pocket. 

If you have fragile things you absolutely cannot live without, pack and move them YOURSELF.  You can never trust someone else to care as much as you do!!

I've moved many times, and these are my best tips.