Follow these tips: Before You Pack
- Plan your move well in advance. This will help you avoid a last-minute frenzy. For a free timeline and checklist, visit upack.com/sites/default/files/pdf/MovingChecklist.pdf
- Back up your computers. Protect critical files and photos by storing copies on a portable hard drive you carry with you, or uploading the files to a free cloud server such as Google Drive or Dropbox.
- Photograph your cords. Shoot images of the cords and connections on your television, sound system, modem and computer so it’s easier to reconnect everything in your new home.
- Make plans for pets. Reduce your pets’ moving stress by boarding them at a kennel or leaving them with friends.
- Get a Movers Guide from the U.S. Post Office. The guide will help you notify friends and service providers of your new address. It also includes $750 in coupons for businesses and services you might need. Get a printed guide at your local post office or complete the digital version at https://moversguide.usps.com While You Pack
- Color-code your packing boxes. This will make it easy to match them to the right rooms in your new home.
- Mark essential boxes separately. Anything you’ll need immediately after move-in should be marked with a red color code. And make sure the important boxes get loaded last so they come off the truck first.
- Create a first-night box of essentials. Include medications, toothbrushes, changes of clothing and anything else you’ll need immediately. During the Move
- Don’t box valuables or important documents Put jewelry, passports, birth certificates etc. in a special Move File and hand-carry them in your own car.
- Pack a first-day cleaning kit. Include a vacuum cleaner and cleaning supplies so can clean cabinets, closets and counters before you move your possessions in.
- Make a furniture map. Plot where all the large furniture pieces will go to simplify set-up in the new home. You can use graph paper or a free layout tool like homediary.com. After the Move
- Save all receipts. If your move is associated with a new job or a transfer, you may be able to deduct some of the costs. Sources: IRS.gov, U-Pack Moving, U.S. Post Office
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