How to Pack Everything in Your Home for a Move

2. Plastic containers and vacuum storage bags

Plastic containers and vacuum storage bags are especially useful if you plan to store items after your move. Plastic containers come in all sizes and keep things cleaner than cardboard boxes. They can also prevent pests and insects from getting into your belongings. Additionally, plastic containers enable you to refine packing and storage by color-coding. For example, you can place winter clothing in blue boxes and the kids' toys in yellow boxes.

3. Alternatives to single-use plastics

After unpacking, plastic bags, bubble wrap, and packing peanuts most often end up in a landfill, so try to make minimal use of single-use plastics when packing. When gathering your packing supplies, consider using a mattress box instead of a plastic mattress bag, Kraft paper instead of movers' wrap, and packing paper instead of zip-top baggies. If used correctly, packing paper provides as much protection as bubble wrap or styrofoam peanuts and panels, and at a much lower cost - plus it's recyclable. For convenience, we include some single-use plastics supplies in our guide, like zip-top baggies and movers' wrap, which you can use at your discretion.

4. Mattress bags and boxes

Moving is hard on mattresses. Heavy, bulky mattresses get dragged along the floor and through doorways and hallways. Without adequate protection, your mattresses could get covered in dirt, or worse, snagged and torn. Maintain the considerable investment you have in your mattresses and box springs and ensure they stay protected by using mattress bags or boxes. Mattress boxes provide even more protection and are an excellent alternative to a single-use plastic mattress bag.

5. Wrapping and cushioning materials

You'll wrap most of your household items to protect them from damage. And most boxes will need appropriate cushioning before placing these wrapped items inside. One of the most affordable, useful, and eco-friendly cushioning and wrapping materials available is packing paper or newsprint paper (non-inked). We don't recommend using regular newspaper because the ink can stain clothing, china, and other items. In our packing guides, we use the term 'packing paper,' which can also mean non-inked newsprint. You can also cushion with old towels, t-shirts, or bedding.

6. Moving blankets

Moving blankets are a must for padding and protecting furniture and appliances. A leather chair, for example, should be covered with moving blankets and secured with movers' wrap. You can also pad spaces between items in the moving van with blankets to prevent things from shifting, scratching, and getting damaged.

7. Protective materials for unboxed items

Movers' wrap is a commercial-grade plastic preferred by most movers because it secures moving blankets without sticking and provides furniture with an added layer of protection. Although extremely handy, movers' wrap is a single-use plastic that will end up in landfill after your move, so use sparingly. Alternatively, you can secure moving blankets with packing tape. Kraft paper is an excellent material for wrapping rugs, disassembled furniture legs, fireplace tools, and other items that won't fit in boxes.

8. Packing tape

Packing tape is specifically designed to adhere to cardboard moving boxes; avoid using masking tape or scotch tape to seal boxes because it will quickly detach. There are several eco-friendly types of packing tape available.

9. Tape gun

You'll find that a tape gun is an essential packing tool. Rather than needing three hands to position, tape, cut, and keep the tape from sticking to itself, a tape gun lets you seal any box or object single-handedly.

10. Scissors and a utility knife

You'll need reliable tools to cut any number of items during packing. Whether you're cutting paper, cardboard, rope, or twine, the job will be faster and easier with sharp scissors or a utility knife. A utility knife or box cutter is the best tool for cutting open taped boxes when you're unpacking.

11. Labels

Out of sight, out of mind - we quickly forget what's inside a packed box, especially when those boxes start piling up. Labeling each box is critical to both a smooth move and easy unpacking. Some people favor using color-coded labels that inform movers of which room the color-coded box goes in. If you go this route, prepare a master template of your new floor plan with the color code for each room and distribute the plan to each member of the moving team.

12. Permanent black markers

Using a permanent black marker is the most straightforward and easiest way to label boxes. Buy wide-tip markers so that your writing will be easily legible. Use your marker to cross out any lettering on re-used boxes and always include the contents and destination room on each box.

13. Tools

Your basic household toolbox should contain pliers, a wrench, both slot and Phillips head screwdrivers or an electric drill, a hammer, level, tape measure, utility knife, and a flashlight. This tool kit will come in handy for managing all kinds of moving chores and is essential for disassembling furniture, like bed frames and table legs.

2. Gather your moving supplies and create a packing station

In addition to a variety of boxes, create a packing station supplied with packing paper, tape, a tape gun, scissors, utility knife, and permanent black markers. Save yourself thousands of steps and make your packing station portable, so you can efficiently pack room by room. Dedicate a medium-sized moving box filled with your supplies. Label it 'packing supplies' so it doesn't get lost amid the other boxes.

3. Securely tape the bottom seam of the box

Use two overlapping layers of packing tape to seal the bottom seams of boxes containing books, china, glassware, and other heavy or fragile items. You don't want the contents oozing out of the bottom of the box every time it's lifted and moved.

4. Pad the bottom of the box with cushioning

Before you start layering in items, provide a generous layer of padding at the bottom of the box. Crumpled packing paper is a terrific material for cushioning. If the box gets dropped, that bottom layer will help protect the contents. Plus, if your load travels over rough ground like potholes, each box will have that protective layer of padding, so contents stay safe.

5. Pack items by room and group like items

Both packing and unpacking are so much easier if you pack your belongings by room. Refine this step further by packing the items in the room separately, by similar things. For example, you can group plates and bowls in one box, your small kitchen appliances in another box, and glassware in yet another.

6. Select the appropriate box

It's tempting to grab a big box and fill it to the brim with plates, pots and pans, and small appliances. When filled, it's impossible to lift, dangerous to move, and can lead to items getting broken. Follow the guideline of using big boxes for lightweight things like pillows and comforters, small boxes for heavier items, cell boxes for glassware, and heavy-duty boxes for china.

7. Wrap fragile items

If an item is fragile or breakable, like most ceramics and glassware, wrap each piece with several layers of tissue and packing paper before placing it in the moving box. Be careful not to pack too many heavy, fragile items together. Large ceramics, like tureens and platters, should be divided up between dishware boxes.

8. Place heavier items on the bottom

Always place heavier items on the bottom of the box. However, keep in mind that just because an item is large doesn't necessarily mean it's heavy. Large, very fragile items should go towards the top, with plenty of surrounding cushioning.

9. Be sure boxes aren't too heavy

It's easy to get on a roll and fill boxes without realizing how heavy they've become. Try to divvy up heavy items between boxes. Don't risk straining your back by packing boxes that are too weighty. Also, note that heavy content can easily cause the bottom of a box to break open. Be sure to use extra tape on the bottom and write 'heavy' on the box.

10. Fill empty spaces with padding

Lifting, stacking, transporting - all these movements cause contents to shift. Avoid breakage and damage by crushing up extra paper and padding all the empty spaces in each box. Packing the air spaces also prevents boxes from collapsing when you stack other boxes on top.

11. Close the box and seal seams with tape

Once the box is full but not too heavy, and you've filled in void spaces with crushed packing paper, it's time to close the box and seal the top seam with packing tape. Sealing the box will keep the contents clean and secure.

12. Immediately label

It's so easy to forget what's inside a box when you're busy packing, so before you move on to the next box, immediately label the most recent one with its contents and room destination. Label each side of the box to avoid the hassle of having to move boxes around to see the label, which is especially maddening when a box is at the bottom of a stack.

2. Group same sized items together before packing

Check your dishwasher and drying rack for glasses or coffee mugs. Place the same sized items together in groups at your packing station.

3. Prepare the box

For boxes containing glasses and mugs, overlap two or three strips of packing tape on the bottom seam to ensure the box is sufficiently strong. Even though one glass may seem as light as a feather, when you fill a box with glassware or mugs, you'll be surprised at how heavy the box becomes. Next, place a generous layer of crumpled packing paper in the bottom of the box.

4. Wrap

Place a stack of packing paper on the table. Place each glass on the paper diagonally at the corner near you. Start rolling the glass away from you, stuffing the paper into and around the glass as you go. When you get to the opposite corner, secure it with a small piece of tape. Use the same method for coffee mugs, adding extra paper around the handle, so it's supported.

2. Be sure your silverware is clean and dry

Check the dishwasher and drying rack to make sure you have your entire set. If any silverware is wet, carefully dry each piece before packing it.

3. Gather all pieces in categories

Start with your everyday flatware. Stack all your forks together and wrap them tightly with packing paper. Place the forks back in the silverware tray. Do this with each category of cutlery: salad forks, teaspoons, soup spoons, butter knives, knives, and so forth. If you are packing sterling silver pieces, these should never be stacked and wrapped. Instead, place these pieces individually in the dedicated sterling silver box or the separate pouches of a sterling cloth.

4. Place crushed paper in the open spaces

Prevent the rolled packs of silverware from moving and shifting by packing tightly around them with crumpled paper.

5. Wrap the silverware tray

Place the silverware tray on the stack of packing paper and wrap several layers of paper around it. Use packing tape to secure the packing paper. Alternatively, you can wrap several layers of movers' plastic wrap around the silverware tray to secure the contents.

6. Place the wrapped silverware tray in the moving box

Set the tray face up in the box. Don't put it in on its side or face down.

7. Separately wrap larger pieces

Some pieces, such as serving spoons and cake servers, will be too large to fit in the silverware tray. Wrap them individually and place them on top of the serving tray.

8. Fill any gaps

Use crushed paper to fill any empty spaces.

9. Close and seal the box

Tape the box closed and label the contents: 'Kitchen: Silverware.'

2. Prepare the box

Seal the bottom of the box with several overlapping layers of packing tape. Make sure the bottom of the box is exceptionally secure. Fill the bottom of each cell with crushed tissue paper. Packing paper can be too stiff and doesn't provide the protection wine glasses and crystal require. Tissue paper provides softer protection and crumples tighter to fill empty spaces and provide support to delicate items.

3. Work with one glass at a time

Fill the bowl of each wine glass with crushed tissue paper. This filler provides extra protection during the moving process by supporting the glass from the inside. Place each glass diagonally on the corner of a stack of tissue paper and wrap several layers of paper around the glass as you roll it away from you. To provide extra support to the stem, fill the area around the stem with additional paper as you go. Secure the tissue with tape as needed.

4. Insert the glass upside down in the cell

Each cell already has crumpled tissue paper at the bottom. Place each glass upside down into the cell space. Pack crumpled tissue paper on top of the upside-down wrapped glass.

5. Cover all of the cells with a layer of crumpled packing paper, close and seal the box

Make sure to fill any empty spaces in each cell with crumpled tissue paper. The goal of filling space is to prevent glasses from shifting during transport. Tape the box closed and label the contents: 'Wine glasses' or 'crystal.' Also, write the room destination 'Kitchen,' 'Bar,' 'Dining Room,' and so forth. Finally, in large lettering, write 'Fragile' on all sides and the top of the box.

6. Place the packed box in a safe spot

Be sure to find a safe spot to store the boxes of packed wine glasses and crystal. You don't want other things, like boxes of books, to get stacked on top.

2. Make sure all of your pots and pans are clean and dry

Before packing, ensure each piece is dry, so rust and mold won't develop during the move. Check your dishwasher or drying rack for pots, pans, lids, and removable handles than can easily escape notice.

3. Prepare your box

Tape the moving box closed along the bottom seam. Fortify it with a second layer of tape. Cushion the inside bottom of the box with crumpled packing paper.

4. Organize pots and pans that can nest inside of one another

Remove all lids. Select three or four pans that will nest together. Lay a sheet of packing paper over the top of the largest pan. Put the next size smaller pan on top of the paper and push the paper down as you gently push one pan into the other. Repeat this process with three or four more pans, pulling the paper up as you go.

5. Wrap the entire stack

Place the nested group on your pile of packing paper and pull up several layers of paper around it. Tape the paper down to ensure the stack is wrapped securely.

6. Wrap the lids

Wrap each lid separately with several layers of packing paper. If lids nest together, you can use the same wrapping method as in Steps 4 and 5.

7. Wrap cookie sheet and griddles

Wrap each sheet and griddle separately. Once wrapped, stack smaller sheets on top of larger sheets. Place the cookie sheets and griddles on their sides (so they are vertical), up against the sides of the box. If you have several sheets and griddles, balance the weight by placing a few on each side of the box.

8. Place the wrapped groups of pots and pans in the box

Place the most substantial wrapped pots and pans in the bottom of the box. Fill spaces around the wrapped groups to prevent shifting during the move. Leave about two inches of space at the top of the box. Place crumpled paper on the top of the wrapped pots and pans to fill any empty spaces.

9. Repeat this process with the remainder of your pots and pans

As mentioned in Step 1, you don't want to make your boxes too heavy to lift, or so full that they tear, so be sure to pack heavier items, such as cast iron skillets, in smaller boxes.

10. Close and seal the box

Tape the box closed and label the contents, 'Kitchen: Pots and Pans.'

2. Prepare the box

Tape the box closed along the bottom seam. Fortify it with a second layer of tape. Cushion the inside bottom of the box with crumpled packing paper.

3. Pack knives in a cutlery block

You can keep a set of knives in their cutlery block. Wrap a sheet of packing paper over the top of the handles and down the sides of the block. Tape around the paper to secure it in place. This paper will keep the knives from moving or falling out of the block. Then, place the block on several layers of overlapping packing paper. Roll the block, pulling the paper as you roll to cover the block completely. Run a band of packing tape vertically and horizontally around the block to additionally secure.

4. Group individual knives by size

If you aren't using a cutlery block, you'll need to pack your knives individually. If your knives have sheaths, insert the knife into the sheath. Then, group the knives by their size. Place all of your steak knives in one pile, paring knives in another, and so forth.

5. Wrap the knives

Place a stack of packing paper on the counter or table. Roll the first knife in two layers of paper. After a few rolls, add another knife, making sure the blade is in the alternate direction to the first blade. Fold the outside edges of the paper over the knives as you roll. Continue rolling one or two more knives. Seal the bundle with tape.

6. Wrap the knife bundle in a second sheet of packing paper

Roll the entire first bundle in another layer of packing paper for extra protection. Label the bundle 'knives,' so those who help you unpack will know to be extra careful as they unwrap the paper. Continue the process until you have wrapped all of your knives.

8. Seal and label the box

Tape the box closed and label the contents, 'Kitchen: Knives,' and in large lettering 'Sharp.'

2. Purge your pantry

If your moving company will transport your spices, get ready to pack. But first, toss out expired or stale spices, or herbs and seasonings that have lost their punch. After you throw out the contents, recycle the glass and plastic bottles.

3. Seal all containers

Check each jar, bottle, and package to make sure it's tightly sealed. Tape any open packages closed or place inside a plastic zip-top bag.

4. Cover holes in salt and pepper shakers

Place a piece of tissue paper over salt and pepper shaker holes, then tightly tape over the tissue.

5. Wrap each spice container in tissue paper

Wrap each glass spice bottle with tissue paper.

6. Seal oil and vinegar bottles

Ensure the caps are tightly closed to prevent bottles from leaking during transit. You may want to remove the lid, place a small piece of plastic wrap over the opening, then re-seal the bottle. Wrap bottles individually in several layers of tissue paper. Place the bottles in a zip-top bag and keep them upright. If an oil requires refrigeration, don't pack it - give it to a friend or neighbor.

7. Place wrapped spice containers in a small box

Make sure the small moving box is well-sealed on the bottom seam. Place crumpled tissue paper inside the bottom of the box, then place each wrapped container in the box. Fill empty spaces with crushed tissue paper, so all contents are completely immobile.

8. Seal and label the box

Tape the box closed and label the contents, 'Kitchen: Spices & Oils.'

An alternative method to packing spice containers in a small box

Pack wrapped spice containers in Dutch ovens, stockpots, and crockpots. Just as you would with a box, crumple tissue paper into the bottom of the pot to cushion the spice containers. Fill the pot with containers and crumpled tissue paper so nothing can move. Place crumpled paper over the jars and containers before putting the lid on the pot. Wrap the pot in several layers of packing paper and tape to secure it. You can pack the filled spice pot along with your other pots and pans. Be sure to label the box, 'Kitchen: Pots & Pans and Spices.'

2. Purge your cupboards and pantry

Once you know which foods you can't take with you, donate them to your local food bank. Be sure to check expiration dates and throw away foods that are no longer nutritious or on the verge of spoiling. Dump the food in the trash or compost and recycle cardboard, glass, and plastic containers.

3. Consider your alcohol

The moving company absolutely will not take alcohol. Now's the time to drink up! Your friends will likely appreciate receiving what you can't consume before the move. If you have a valuable wine collection that you want to relocate, you'll need to hire a specialty moving company that maintains necessary licensing and uses climate-controlled transport.

4. Remember that canned goods and bottles are heavy

Evaluate the cost of transporting bulky items against the cost of replacement. Cans and bottled foods are heavy and can cause your transport costs to be higher than the cost of replacing the food at your destination.

5. Prepare your moving box

Overlap several layers of packing tape on the bottom seam of the box. Cushion the interior of the box with crumpled packing paper.

6. Prepare open containers

Open food bags, such as flour, sugar, and rice bags, can create a real mess if you don't seal them properly. Fold over the bag opening and seal it with packing tape. Place the bag in a zip-top baggie for extra protection.

7. Choose a box or bin

You may want to consider using a plastic storage bin, rather than a cardboard box, especially if your items are going into storage for a while. A plastic bin better protects your food from vermin and insects that could otherwise chew through cardboard.

8. Layer the heavier items on the bottom

Items like jars of peanut butter or spaghetti sauce go on the bottom of the box. Crackers and boxes of cereal go on top. Fill the open spaces with crushed packing paper so nothing will move or shift. If packing a glass bottle, wrap it with several layers of packing paper before placing it in the box.

9. Seal and label the box

Seal the box closed with packing tape and label all four sides and the top 'Kitchen: Food.'

2. Make sure each appliance is thoroughly dry

Before wrapping, make sure each appliance and its parts are completely dry.

3. Pack in the original box

If you have the original appliance boxes, use those first. Wrap the cord prong so it won't scratch the appliance. Insert the appliance and its parts into the original box and fill any empty spaces with crumpled packing paper. Seal the box with packing tape. Then insert this box into another larger moving box with other small appliances.

4. Prepare the moving box

Tape the bottom seam of the moving box closed. Fortify the seam with a second layer of tape - remember, appliances can get heavy. Cushion the inside bottom of the box with crumpled packing paper.

5. Prep electric cords and prongs

Fold the electric cord of each appliance and secure it with a twisty tie. Wrap the prongs with some packing paper and tape the paper to ensure the prongs don't scratch anything. If a cord is removable, wrap it with paper and label it, so you'll know which appliance it belongs to.

6. Remove major detachable parts

Remove parts, then wrap each one separately with packing paper and label the item. For example, remove trays from the toaster oven, the carousel dish from the microwave, bowls from the stand mixer, the carafe from the coffee maker, and so on. Fill the cavity of glass items, such as a carafe, with crushed packing paper to provide additional support.

7. Wrap each appliance in several layers of packing paper

Tape the paper, so it stays closed and protects the appliance. Label the package so you'll be able to access it quickly after your move.

8. Place each appliance upright in the moving box

Leave about two inches between each appliance and fill the air space with crushed packing paper. Cover the tops of the appliances with plenty of crumpled packing paper before you close the box.

9. Seal and label the box

Tape the box closed and label the contents, 'Kitchen,' along with the specific appliances in the box such as 'coffee maker' or 'toaster oven.' If you're a coffee drinker, you'll definitely want to be able to find your coffee maker immediately after you move.

2. Unplug cables and accessories

One at a time, unplug each accessory, like your DVD player, video game console, or Roku. Wrap each cord with a twisty tie, then place the bundle in a zip-top baggie. Label the baggie with the name of the accessory (i.e., 'AUX cord DVD Player'). Place the baggie on the device and secure using movers' wrap. Wrap the entire bundle in a few sheets of packing paper. Label the paper package with the name of the accessory, for example, 'DVD Player.'

3. If applicable, remove the TV from its wall mount

4. Box it up

Your boxing strategy will depend on what box you decide to use for packing:

The original box:

If you have the TV's original box, use it. Hopefully, you kept the manufacturer's padding, which will provide the best protection for your television.

TV moving box kit:

If packing it in a TV moving box kit, follow the kit steps and use the moving kit's protective cover for the screen.

2. Scan your house for all the framed pictures that will be packed

Gather smaller pictures together near your packing station. Note, it's easier to leave large framed prints hanging on the wall until you're reading to wrap them.

3. Wrap each framed picture separately

Lay an individual picture on the stack of paper; spread out layers of paper if the frame is exceptionally large. Place an X from corner to corner on the glass using artists' tape, then place a piece of cardboard that is slightly larger than the frame, over the glass. Wrap several pieces of paper up and around the picture and secure the loose ends with packing tape. Label the wrapped picture with a permanent marker.

4. Box the wrapped framed pictures

Cushion the bottom of a moving box with crumpled packing paper. Set the wrapped framed pictures side-by-side in the box. Do not lay them flat. Note that large pieces should be boxed individually in picture/mirror boxes. Fill any open space around the frames with additional crumpled packing paper.

For especially valuable or fragile framed pictures, you can purchase special picture packing kits. These kits provide foam corners to protect frames and can handle items up to 65 pounds.

5. Tape the box closed and label the contents

Label the box with 'framed pictures,' and include the destination room. In large lettering, write 'fragile' on all sides and the top of the moving box.

2. Scan your house for all the paintings you will pack

Gather smaller paintings together near your packing station. Leave larger artwork hanging on the wall until you're reading to wrap them.

3. Wrap paintings covered with glass

Lay an individual painting on the stack of paper. Spread out layers of paper, if the frame is exceptionally large. You should place valuable paintings and artwork on a 3-ply paper pad for added protection. With artists' tape, put an “X” from corner to corner on the glass. This step will stabilize the glass, but if it does happen to break, the pieces won't shatter and cut the canvas. Place a piece of cardboard that is slightly larger than the frame, over the glass.

Wrap several layers of paper up and around the painting, or wrap with the padded paper pad, and secure the loose ends with packing tape. Label the wrapped art with a permanent black marker.

4. Paintings with the canvas exposed

Cut a piece of glassine paper three inches larger than the canvas, then turn it over on top of the glassine paper. Wrap the glassine up around the back of the painting and secure it to the wooden stretcher frame with artists' tape.

2. Set up your packing station

Gather your supplies and place a stack of packing paper on a table.

3. Disassemble each lamp

Unscrew the lampshade, remove the bulb, harp, and any other removable parts. Wind the cord and secure it with a twisty tie or rubberband.

5. Pack wrapped lamps in moving boxes

Prepare a box by taping the bottom seam securely; use several layers of tape for boxes that will hold heavier lamps. Layer crumpled packing paper in the bottom of the box. Unless an individual base is hefty, you can pack several lamps per box. Be sure to allow at least two inches of space between lamps and pack that area with crushed packing paper. Wrap the lamp's harp and bulb in packing paper and add these to the box.

6. Pack the lampshades

Nest lampshades together in a large box. Make sure your hands are clean, so the shades don't get soiled. Place the largest shade upside down in the box. Place a layer of packing paper over the shade and nestle smaller shades into the larger shade, separating each shade with packing paper.

2. Wrap the mirrors

Start by getting help with oversized or bulky mirrors. Place a 3-ply paper packing pad on your packing station. Carefully set the mirror face up on the paper packing pad. Run an “X” of artists' tape from corner to corner of the mirror. Large mirrors may need additional artists' tape in the form of a cross over the “X.” For added protection, cut a piece of cardboard slightly larger than the mirror and place it over the glass. Pull the pad up around the mirror, ideally overlapping two layers. Tape the paper securely closed with packing tape.

2. Understand your moving company's restrictions

Most moving companies will not transport plants, especially for long-distance moves. Be sure to confirm with your moving company before you start to pack your plants. If they won't carry your plants, make sure you have adequate space in your vehicle to do so.

3. Consider temperatures during the move and the climate of your new home

Consider your plants' hardiness and their adaptability to environmental changes. And be aware that the cargo area of a moving van isn't temperature controlled. If you're moving during temperate seasons, your leafy buddies will be able to survive about two or three days inside the truck. During the summer and winter, most plants won't survive a single day. They'll be a lot happier if they can accompany you in the passenger compartment, not the trunk, of your car with the A/C or heater keeping them comfortable.

4. Repot each plant into a plastic pot

About a month before your move, repot your plants into plastic pots the same size as the original pot. A month should give your plants time to adjust to their new pots and soil, allowing them a better chance of surviving their trip. Use fresh, sterilized potting soil. Sterilized soil is free of pests and reduces the chance of your plants carrying an unwanted traveler to your new home. You can buy sterilized soil at any home improvement center.

5. Prune and trim

About a week before your move, trim up your plants and prune as necessary. Pruning keeps your plants healthy, reduces the chance of broken branches or stems, and makes them more compact to pack up properly.

6. Water each plant

About two days before your move, thoroughly water each plant. On moving day, you want the soil to be moist but not soaking wet. Thorough watering a few days before moving should provide your plants with the moisture they need to handle the trip.

7. Add support

Stake leggy or tall plants to add support. Trees like palms and ficus may seem sturdy, but the continual motion of transport can quickly weaken their trunks and cause damage.

8. Contain the soil

If a plant is so tall that you'll need to lay it at an angle or on its side, contain the soil by packing moistened sphagnum moss between the trunk and the edge of the pot. Wrap Kraft paper around the pot and over the moss, then tape closed. Avoid wrapping with plastic.

9. Wrap the plants

Use Kraft paper to make a paper cone for each plant. The cone will contain the branches, stems, and leaves, protecting them from damage. Wrap tall trees with Kraft paper, so the branches are protected. Avoid using stretch wrap or plastic to wrap plants and trees. Plastic prevents plants from breathing and can encourage mold.

10. Place in boxes

Put the wrapped plants in boxes and fill the air spaces around the pots with tightly crumpled packing paper or newspaper to prevent them from sliding and moving.

2. Spot clean

If you notice stains after vacuuming, use a clean rag and gentle cleaner to remove them. This step is particularly crucial if your rug will be going into storage. If you spot clean, make sure that the carpet is completely dry before rolling it. If your rug is especially valuable, it will be worthwhile to have it professionally cleaned. Professional rug cleaners carefully wrap rugs after cleaning them, so if you opt for cleaning, you'll save yourself the wrapping process.

3. Verify the direction of the rug's nap

Unless you're moving a flat weave rug like a kilim, following this step is crucial for pile rugs because when you begin rolling your carpet, you'll want to roll it against the direction of the nap. How do you determine the nap's direction? Rub your hand slowly back and forth over the rug's surface. In one direction, the fibers will resist your hand's movement, but in the other direction, the fibers will feel smooth. The smooth movement indicates the direction of the nap.

4. Turn the rug upside down to vacuum and prepare to roll

Take the time to vacuum the underside of the rug. It's surprising how much gunk can accumulate under a carpet, especially if you have pets. After cleaning the backside, leave the rug upside down to start rolling. Why do you want your rug to be facedown when you roll it? If you roll a pile rug with the pile facing up, it adds extra strain and pressure to the rug's backing. This pressure can stretch or crack the backing.

5. Roll the rug

When the rug is thoroughly dry, lay it upside down on a flat surface. Smooth out any warps or creases and start rolling with the nap pointing toward you - this means you'll be turning the rug against the direction of the nap. Roll slowly and evenly, creating a cylinder.

2. Disassemble what you can

Disassembling furniture into smaller components will make navigating through the house easier, help prevent damage to your furniture, walls, and stairways, and save space on the moving van. Examples of items that may require disassembly include recliners with removable backs, bed frames, table legs, and certain types of shelving units. As you disassemble items, put the hardware in a zip-top baggie or wrap it in packing paper and label. Secure the hardware pouch to a piece of the furniture using movers' wrap, so it doesn't get lost or misplaced during the move.

4. Secure drawers and bundle items

Cabinet doors and dresser drawers can easily fly open when moving. Prevent a calamity by securing doors and drawers with movers' stretch wrap. Also, bundle table legs and removable shelves together with Kraft paper, so they stay protected during your move.

5. Protect corners with cardboard

The edges of your furniture are at the most risk for ripping, tearing, scratching, and other damage. You can fold a piece of cardboard to fit over furniture corners, then secure in place with movers' wrap.

6. Wrap furniture in moving blankets

Who doesn't love a soft, cozy blanket? Wrap your furniture with clean moving blankets to protect pieces from damage. Take the blankets outside and give them a good shake to make sure they're dust-free. Then, wrap each piece with as many layers as necessary to entirely cover the furniture. Secure the blankets with movers' stretch wrap or packing tape.

2. Purge

You probably have favorite ties that you wear more than others. And you have some special occasion ties. But it's time to donate the ones you never use or toss the ones decorated with spaghetti sauce and wine stains. Now that you know which ties you'll be packing, and how many, choose one of the packing options below.

3. Choose a packing option

• The hanging option: If you store your ties on a rack that hangs on your closet pole, simply hang this rack on the metal rod in a wardrobe box with other clothing.
• The rolling option: Some people prefer to keep their ties rolled for storage. If that's you, fold each tie in half, leaving about three inches of the wide end longer than the narrow end. Starting at the fold, with the skinny side of the tie facing up, begin rolling. Place the rolled tie on its edge in a small box. Keeping the rolls together will prevent them from unraveling.
• The folding option: Slide the narrow end through the loop on the back of the tie. Pull through and line up the tips of the wide end and small end together. The necktie is now essentially folded in half. Take the narrow end and slide it through the self-loop again. Line the bottom of a small moving box with packing paper. Lay the tie flat in the moving box. Once all of your ties are in the moving box, cover them with a layer of packing paper and seal the box closed.
• A tie case option: One of the easiest ways to pack and move your ties is to use a tie case. A case will completely protect your ties, and it makes them super easy to pack. Just place the filled tie case on top of some folded clothes in a moving box, and that's it. Investing in a tie case for moving is worthwhile because you can also use it to protect ties when traveling.

2. Purge and organize

Toss damaged or worn-out shoes that are no longer usable. Donate shoes you never wear or that are uncomfortable. If your children's shoes are still perfectly usable, but won't be passed down to younger siblings, donate them.

3. Pack your quality shoes and boots

Start by packing your more expensive pairs. First, stuff the toe box of each shoe with crushed tissue paper so it will retain its shape. Fill boots from toe to shaft with crumpled tissue paper. Then, wrap each shoe or boot in a piece of tissue paper and place it in the original box, just as when they were new. If you still have the original drawstring shoe or boot bags, be sure to use those. Place the filled shoe and boot boxes in a moving box and fill the empty spaces with crushed packing paper. If you don't have the original boxes or drawstring bags, carefully wrap each shoe or boot with tissue and place in small moving boxes with plenty of crushed packing paper.

4. Pack your everyday shoes

You can pack your everyday shoes in moving boxes, no problem.

• First, prepare a medium size moving box. Securely tape the bottom seam of the box, then place a layer of crumpled packing paper in the bottom of the box. Now you're ready for your sandals, shoes, and boots.
• Fill boots with crushed tissue paper, so they'll hold their shape. Then, wrap each shoe or boot separately in a sheet of packing paper. Place a layer of wrapped shoes at the bottom of the box.
• Crumple extra packing paper around and on top of the wrapped shoes. Add another layer of wrapped shoes on the crumpled paper.
• Finally, place one additional layer of crumpled packing paper on the top.

2. Purge

Gather broken, bent, and unusable hangers and recycle those that you can. Put the remainder in the trash. Donate functional hangers that you no longer use.

3. Put hangers in categories

Separate hangers into piles. You'll likely have quality wooden hangers of several types - pants, suits, and coat hangers. Separate those by category and continue the process with padded hangers, 'velvet' covered space saving hangers, pants and skirts hangers with clips, plastic hangers, child-size hangers, and if you use them, wire hangers. And you also may have some scarf, lingerie, tie (see 'How to Pack Your Ties for a Move'), or belt hangers. Separate those as well.

4. Grab a set of six matching hangers

Gather together six hangers of the same type and tape the necks together with masking tape or string. Then, tape or tie the hangers together at the bottom. Now those little beasts can't get loose or tangled. Do not use packing tape to join hangers - packing tape is hard to remove and leaves a sticky residue. Continue taping or tying all of your hangers in bunches of six.

5. Pack the hangers

Place the hanger sets at the bottom of your wardrobe boxes. Alternatively, you can use a medium size box and stack the sets in the box with the hooks positioned down toward the corner of the box. Place more sets in the box, side by side. You may want to wrap several layers of packing paper around sets of fabric-padded or quality wooden hangers for protection.

6. Seal the moving box and label it

Seal the moving box closed with packing tape. Use your permanent black marker to label the box, 'hangers,' and write the destination room on the box, so the movers or your helpers will know where to deliver the box.

2. Layout all of the jewelry that you'll be packing

Remember, don't include your valuable jewelry in boxes that will go on the moving van. Gather stray pieces from the bathroom, bedroom, kitchen, and other rooms and lay everything out on the packing station.

3. Purge

If you only have a solo earring or a necklace with a broken clasp, now is the time to set aside pieces for repair or donation. Don't throw jewelry in the trash. Some artists love to recycle jewelry into crafts and repurposed pieces, so be sure to donate unwanted pieces to a charity or place an ad online.

4. Box or wrap each piece

• If you can, place all loose jewelry in jewelry boxes, cases, or fabric jewelry rolls. Pack tissue around pieces in your jewelry box so they won't shift.
• Don't have jewelry box? Try keeping your rings, earrings, and other small jewelry items organized in a pill box.
• If you have too many pieces to fit in boxes and rolls, wrap each piece with tissue paper. Lay the item at one end of a piece of tissue and roll the paper. After several rolls, add another item and continue rolling until you get to the end of the paper.
• It may be tempting to put chains in a pretty jewelry pouch or even in zip-top baggies, but chains quickly become tangled, so wrapping in tissue is your best bet for keeping jewelry untangled.

6. Prepare a small moving box

Tape the bottom seam securely with packing tape. Fill the inside bottom of the box with crumpled packing paper. Place the wrapped jewelry boxes and rolls in a moving box and place crumpled packing paper around and on the top of the jewelry packages.

7. Seal the moving box and label it

Seal the moving box closed with packing tape. Use your permanent black marker to label the box, 'jewelry,' and write the destination room on the box, so the movers or your helpers will know where to deliver the box.

2. Gather up all of your hats

Scan through your closets, your entry hall, and even the backyard patio or garage and gather your hats.

3. Purge and categorize hats by the size of the brim

Sort through your stack and weed out beat-up, stained hats that have seen better days or hats that you never wear. Put unusable hats in the trash and donate the rest. Once you've sorted all the hats that you want to pack, categorize them by the size of the brim. Set aside those that have original hat boxes.

4. Pack hats in the original hat boxes

If you're a hat aficionado, you've probably saved your hat boxes. Often, they're almost as special as the hats that come in them. Place your hat upside down in the box and cushion it with crumpled tissue paper. Place the hatbox on crushed paper in a moving box. Fill the sides and top with crushed paper. Then, seal the box and label it.

5. Pack everyday hats without the original hatbox

Select about six hats with the same size brim. Separate each hat with tissue paper as you nest them together upside down on a layer of crumpled paper in a moving box. Fill the remainder of the box with crumpled paper. Use the same method to pack large brimmed hats in large moving boxes. For baseball caps, stack six at a time without separating with tissue paper; wrap the entire stack with packing paper. Ski caps, beanies, and knitted caps don't need special attention. You can use them instead of crumpled paper to fill space in the box.

6. Packing fine hats without a hatbox

If you need to pack some quality hats but don't have the original hat boxes, be sure to give each one some extra packing care. Prepare a moving box as in step 5 above. Fill the inside of the crown with crushed tissue paper. Wrap the entire hat in a few layers of tissue paper and pack the hat by itself in the moving box. Fill spaces around the hat with crumpled tissue paper. Seal the box and label it.

7. Seal and label the box

Close the box and secure it with packing tape. Label the box 'Hats,' or the kind of hat, i.e. 'Baseball Caps,' and the destination room.

3. Pack your bedding in stages

• First, pack out of season bedding and decorative items like throw pillows, quilts, afghans, and such.
• Next, pack all of the linens you won't use before your move.
• King or queen size bedding and duvets should go in a large box lined with clean packing paper. Put the most voluminous pieces in the box first. Since linens hold a lot of air, press down repeatedly on each item to remove as much of the air as possible and make space for more bedding.
• Smaller items, like sheets or pillows, can go in next. Once the box is full, place a layer of packing paper on top of the bedding before closing the box.
• Then, deal with the bedding you currently use. Since you and family members will be sleeping in your beds up until your actual move, you'll need your bed pillows, sheets, and blankets or duvets. Make a plan for how you want to deal with bedding on the morning of the move. You simply may not have time to launder all of it. The most manageable plan with these linens is to strip each bed, place the bedding in a large trash bag, label the bag, and deal with the laundry after your move.

2. Remove all linens and bedding, including the mattress cover

Start by stripping the mattress of any linens. You'll pack your bedding separately. See How to Pack Pillows and Bedding in the previous section.

3. Remove the mattress from the bed frame and wrap it in a mattress bag

Always place your mattress in a mattress bag or box to protect it from damage, dirt, and pests.

4. Remove the box springs from the bedframe and wrap in a mattress bag

Next, place your box spring, or two box springs in the case of king size beds, in a mattress bag or box to keep it clean and protected. Seal the bag or box securely with packing tape.

5. Tip for carrying mattress and box springs

Most mattresses don't have carry handles. And once the mattress or box spring is covered with a plastic bag or box, how can you move such a big unwieldy thing? Some people stand the mattress on its side and then push or slide it across rooms and through doorways. Although this seems like the easiest way to move such a bulky item, it can cause the bag to rip, resulting in dirt and damage to the side of your mattress.

One solution is to use a long moving strap that you wrap underneath the mattress. A person at each end will use one hand to lift the strap holding the bulk of the weight while the other hand is used to balance the mattress on the strap.

2. Set aside essentials

Throughout your move, you'll need your usual daily products like shampoo, conditioner, toothbrush, toothpaste, lotion, soap, hairbrush, toilet paper, clean towels, prescription medications, and so forth. Set them aside in an 'essentials' box that will stay with you during the move. You may want to add a first-aid kit, allergy, and painkiller meds too. Clearly label the box, 'essentials,' 'DO NOT SHIP.'

3. Purge your toiletries

A move provides an excellent opportunity to clean out your toiletries. Throw away expired or damaged products. After tossing unusable products in the trash, recycle any glass and plastic bottles. Do not pack aerosols such as deodorants and hairsprays, flammables like nail polish and remover, and items containing alcohol like mouthwash and astringents. Most moving companies will not transport these items. Either take them with you or give them to friends, along with other useful things you don't want.

4. Sort items

After you've decided what you'll purge and what you'll keep, categorize everything for packing. Separate liquids like shampoos and lotions; dry products like powders, cotton swabs, and pads; small appliances; medicines; dental products; shaving products, and so on.

5. Pack!

Once categorized, you can pack items accordingly.

• Dry products: Place dry items in zip-top bags or wrap them individually in packing paper.
• Liquids: For liquids, like your lotions, unscrew the lid, then place a piece of plastic wrap over the opening, and screw the lid back on. Place these bottles upright in zip-top baggies. Double-check to make sure the caps and lids are secure. Because most liquids are heavy and will be pricey to ship, you may prefer to donate them, then replace them after your move. Place the baggies with liquids right side up in the moving box.
• Electronics: Pack small electronics separately from liquids. Wrap each electronic in packing paper, label, and place in a cushioned moving box. If a cord is removable, make sure you pack it with the item. You can pad your electronics with rolls of toilet paper and filled baggies of dry toiletries.

6. Seal and label the box

Seal the box with packing tape and label both the contents and the destination room for each box, for example, 'Toiletries - Kids' Bathroom.'