Moving is one of the most stressful events that can happen during the course of your lifetime. Yes, it can be extremely exciting, but just getting organized can be a chore!  Here are some tips to help ease the stress.

Make a list -- Create an excel spreadsheet, use a notebook… whichever you prefer. Just write everything down!  Number the boxes and put a heading on them i.e. Kitchen dishes.  Use your list to detail what’s in each box so that when it comes to unpacking you know exactly what’s in the box so that you’re not opening 10 different boxes just to find the can opener!

Have plenty of supplies -- You’ll need far more boxes than you think!  Make sure you have plenty so you’re not running around at the last minute trying to find some.  Sure, you can pick up freebies at the liquor store (sometimes), but it’s often worth the money to buy really good moving boxes and packing to ensure that your belongings remain in one piece.  Tip: check on Kijiji for moving boxes – often people will be GIVING away boxes after a big move, just to get them out of the house.   Also make sure you have plenty of packing material, packing tape and markers.

Use wardrobe boxes -- Wardrobe boxes are fantastic! You simply empty your closets into the hanging boxes and move away!  It’s far easier than putting garbage bags or plastic over your hanging items  and really worth the money.  When cleaning out the closets, take the shoes, hats, mitts and other items in the closet and throw them into shopping bags and put on the floor of the box so all closet items stay together. Wardrobe boxes are also great for comforters, pillows and bulky linen closet items.

Colour Code -- Designate a colour to the living room, kitchen, etc and then mark each moving box with the appropriate colour of the room.  Each box will be easily identifiable to whoever’s moving.

Rubbermaid Tubs -- Are great for moving!  Use these to pack up off season clothes and shoes.  Also great for all of your bathroom items that may be a tad wet or messy – shampoos, shower caddies, all your “under the sink” items, etc.  Also terrific for detergent and all your cleaning supplies.

Use Ziploc bags -- Put cables from tvs and other appliances in a zippered bag and then affix to the appliance so they don’t get separated.  You can also use them for all your wall screws and nails and small parts to furniture, etc.  Tape the bag to the item the small parts belong to.

Prepare a cleaning kit -- If you must clean your old place after moving out, put together a kit of basic cleaning supplies and rags. Clean anything possible ahead of time (the inside of kitchen cupboards, the oven, windows, etc.), and if possible, vacuum each room as movers empty it.  The cleaning kit will also be convenient when you get to your new place!

Use your luggage -- Fill your luggage with bedding, towels and other household items.  Pack one suitcase with your personal toiletries and changes of clothes for the moving period to avoid searching through boxes for your pajamas!

Rent a truck - If you're moving a short distance you may be tempted to pile everything into your car and make a few extra tips.  This can turn into a LOT of extra trips and a lot of extra work and gas.

Keep valuables with you --Make sure you keep any jewellery, important papers, etc with you – not with your movers.  This includes insurance documentation, birth certificates – anything you consider valuable.