Transitioning Into Your New Home

Use the right boxes, and pack them carefully Professional moving companies use only sturdy, reinforced cartons. The boxes you can get at your neighborhood supermarket or liquor store might be free, but they are not nearly as strong or padded.

Use sheets, blankets, pillows and towels to separate pictures and other fragile objects from each other and the sides of the carton. Pack plates and glass objects vertically, rather than flat and stacked.

Work while the movers are working. Be sure to point out to your mover the boxes in which you've packed fragile items. The mover will advise you whether those valuables need to be repacked in sturdier, more appropriate boxes.

The heavier the item, the smaller the box you should pack it in. A good rule of thumb is if you can't lift the carton easily, it's too heavy. Label your boxes by room so you can find everything you need the first night in your new home.
You can lighten your load and reduce any storage space you need to rent by hosting a garage or yard sale.

Fill two "OPEN ME FIRST" cartons containing snacks, instant coffee or tea bags, soap, toilet paper, toothpaste and toothbrushes, medicine and toiletry items, flashlight, screwdriver, pliers, can opener, paper plates, cups and utensils, a pan or two, paper towels, and any other items your family can’t live without.

Keep your pets out of the way as much as possible for their safety and everyone else’s on moving day.

Give the mover's foreman your important phone numbers and email addresses so you can stay in contact.

Carefully go over the inventory list and ask the mover to explain anything you don't understand. Make a note of your shipment's registration number, and keep your Bill of Lading handy.

If you're moving a long distance, be aware that your personal property might be sharing a truck with that of one or more other households. For this reason, your mover might need to warehouse your furniture and belongings for several days. Therefore, ask your mover whether your goods will remain on the truck until delivered. If they have to be stored, ask whether you can check the warehouse for security, organization and cleanliness.

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