•  Gather packing supplies before you start. There's nothing more frustrating, than having to stop half-way through a packing session in order to get more supplies.

•  Packed boxes should weigh less than 50 pounds. Pack heavier items on the bottom.

•  Stuff socks, scarves, pillow cases and other small fabric items in holes and crevices in boxes - just make sure you keep pairs of socks together!

•  Make sure all boxes can close properly and be sealed so the tops are flat. If you over-pack a box, you risk damage to the contents.

•  Pack small items in small boxes and place them into a large box. Label all boxes, large or small. 

•  Small, loose items should be boxed or bagged and sealed securely before placing into a larger box.

•  If moving liquids, either transfer them into a sealable container or make sure the lid is secured by taping it down, then put it into a waterproof bag, seal the bag then place it upright into a box. Clearly mark the box with arrows and "This End Up". Also, check which items should not be packed - items that your mover will not move.

•  Keep an inventory list of each box and its contents. This will be necessary if a box goes missing and you need to make a claim.

•  Keep clothing in dresser drawers.

•  Keep a box labeled "Load last, unload first" for the essentials you'll need when you arrive.

•  Keep important records with you. Do not move them with the rest of your household goods. If you cannot take them with you in the car, then send them on ahead with a secure courier company.

•  Tape down anything that moves (except for the cat)!

•  Fill free spots with lighter linens. This can be done with your washer and dryer, and the vegetable crisper in the refrigerator.

•  As much as possible, keep items in their proper places. For example, when packing the silverware/flatware, keep it in its tray then tape bubble wrap around it to secure the contents. This is easier than sorting out all those pieces after your move.

•  Tape screws, bolts and other loose items to underside of furniture. Make sure you bag them first.

•  Keep tools you'll need to reassemble furniture in a separate box that is clearly marked. I usually keep an all-purpose screwdriver in the glove compartment of our car for just such purposes. There's nothing worse than arriving at your new home late at night, wanting to put the bed together and not knowing where the screwdriver is.

•  Do not use standard garbage bags! They rip and tear too easily. If you're going to pack linens and clothing in garbage bags, purchase the thicker, heavy ones to ensure they don't burst during the move. Or double up. The great thing about garbage bags full of clothing is that they can be squished into nooks and holes that exist on the truck, thereby protecting furniture and using less space. Just limit how many you use.

•  Keep items from the same room together as much as possible. This will make it easier to sort the contents after you move.

•  Get everyone involved by making a task list, then dividing out the jobs that each person can do. Organizing your household will not only save you time and energy, but will make your whole family feel like part of this adventure.

Get started now! It's never too late to plan, sort, and start packing.