The Moving Planner Blog

One of the biggest mistakes we make when we move is to underestimate the insurance coverage offered by most movers. Often we check that the company offers insurance and then assume it will cover us for all eventualities and forget about it. This can cause a lot of problems.

Whilst most moves are smooth and trouble-free, accidents and damage to our property can be a real headache. Insurance cover for moving is therefore a vital part of the moving process. Without it you risk losing or damaging your possessions with no recourse to compensation. You have two ways of ensuring adequate cover - you don’t have to choose one over the other and may opt to utilize both:

1. Talk to your current home insurers and ask them if your existing policies cover you during the move. If they do then check if there are any exclusions etc., and, if you don’t have cover for the move in writing, ask if they will provide you with a copy. If your insurer won’t cover you under your existing agreement or you are worried that the cover is inadequate ask if you can pay a premium for special short-term cover.
2. Talk to your movers before you agree to move with them. Ask them to explain their insurance cover, limits, exclusions and so on and take care to read any policy documents they provide. You should NEVER choose a moving company that does not offer insurance.

Individual moving companies and home insurers will offer varying degrees of insurance cover and claims levels and you’ll only really find out how this applies to you by reading the small print of your contract information and by talking to the company about it in depth. In most cases you’ll be expected to know how much cover you need and to provide a list of valuable items (you may have to pay extra for these depending on their value). Some insurers will not include certain types of valuables as standard within their policy - they may be willing to insure these items but you will most likely have to pay a premium. Remember that many moving companies won’t allow you to claim for damage in transit if they didn’t pack your goods themselves. So, unless you can prove that it was their fault, their insurers simply won’t pay out if something goes wrong. It’s vital therefore to make sure you assess their moving liability in the event of a claim.

It’s also worthwhile checking to see if your moving company’s policy includes damage to your premises. The majority of movers are experienced and careful but accidents can happen to your homes as they remove and move furniture etc. Most companies will offer cover for this eventuality - do be aware that if a mover does cause damage to your home on the day of a move you will need to tell them about it immediately (or as soon as you notice it). In all moving insurance policies you’ll likely find that there is a specific time-limit for claims. If you discover damage outside of this limit you won’t be able to make a claim. Again, check the terms and conditions for actual regulations on this.

You may come across various types of moving insurance cover. Primary types include:

1. No charge for the actual insurance cover as it is included in the moving quote. In this case you may only be able to claim back a percentage of the value of your goods if you experience damage/loss.
2. You buy a policy and pay according to the weight of your goods (generally this works by the pound). This type of policy is often limited by depreciated value so you may not get back what you paid for an item but an estimate of current worth. This is often termed ‘like for like’ cover.
3. You pay extra to cover value instead of just weight. In this case you may have to declare the value of your insured goods to the insurer/mover.
4. You pay for a full value policy, which will give you current market value in the event of problems. This is often termed ‘new for old’. This can be in the form of repair, replacement or a payment.

Some movers will ask you for a ‘guestimate’ of the total value of your goods. Although this is hard to get right, it’s essential to be as close as possible to get the best levels of protection. If you have a lot of really valuable items to move, be prepared to have to produce a list of them, with assessments and perhaps even photos before you can have cover. You’ll find that many movers’ insurance policies are calculated on a percentage of the removal cost rather than on the value of your goods. This may not be enough for your needs and most will recommend you then to pay a premium for extra cover. You need to check the maximum premium that they will allow for one item and also how much of the claim you will lose if you need to claim on the policy.

For many of us the basic insurance policy of our chosen moving company will be enough. We need to pay particular attention, however, if we are planning a long-distance or international move. If you are moving internationally especially it’s essential to have full cover. Your goods may be passing borders and may be subject to custom checks and so on. With these moves you’ll have to factor in increased possibilities of accidents, theft, loss, damage and so on. It makes sense here to go with a moving company that is well experienced in these types of moves for best advice and cover. If your goods may be in storage for periods during your moving process then you also need to check the insurance cover for the storage facilities.

The best way to assess moving insurance policies is to read the small print carefully. Look for exclusions - i.e. clauses that mean that you are not covered by insurance or that will not pay out in certain circumstances. This will give you the clearest idea of the extras you might need, how comprehensive the policy is and the things you might need to look out for. For example, many movers have a ‘pairs’ or ’set’ clause. This means that if a part of a set of goods is damaged like a dining room chair or a piece of a dinner service the insurers will agree to pay for the damaged item. However they will not pay to replace the whole set if there is no other damage to it even if you cannot find a matching piece. So, if you have a set of four dining room chairs and your movers break one in transit, they’ll pay for a replacement for that chair. However, if you cannot find a replacement that matches your set you’ll no longer have a matching set and they will not pay to replace all four. Source:moving-company-guide.com

I have searched Google  How do I, or What to do with me nice blinds and shades while moving to a new house? Not much information though… I guess, nobody is taking them on his move. What do you think? 

I did find a company you can call and will tell you for free what to do! Their website is http://www.shadesco.com/ ann the phone number in NYC is (toll free): 888-454-4344 

I copied their thing: The Shade Company specializes in all window adornments such as blinds new york, shades New York, shutters, solar shades, silhouettes and custom drapery for all windows. Their wide selection will accent & improve your room appearance while allowing the perfect flow of light through your windows.

Packing 

Start with the items that are least used and, if possible, pack the items in one room at a time. Make sure you use strong boxes for packing. Always fill the box to the top and close the lid. By doing so, you can stack the boxes on top of each other. Before you start packing your items in the box, ensure that the bottoms of the boxes are well taped to hold the contents. Masking tape is not recommended as the packing tape because it is easy to tear it off. The best type of tape to use is plastic of a width of approximately 1.5 to 2 inches. Never pack the boxes too heavy such that they cannot be lifted safely. Keep each box below 20kg. Try to balance the weight by packing heavy items with some light bulky items such as linen, towels, cushions or soft toys. For boxes that contain both heavy and light items, always place the heavier items at the bottom, graduating to the lightest items on top. Use bubble wrap to pack fragile items. Alternatively, you can use newspapers for packing breakable items. However, do take note that the ink on the newspaper may be smudged onto the packed items. Label all the items in each box clearly. This will come in handy when you unpack the boxes in your new house. Boxes containing fragile or valuable items should also be clearly marked. Pack a bag of daily items that you may need to use 1 or 2 days before and after the move. Do not pack any flammable goods, explosives, and perishable foods with the other items in the boxes. Pack them separately, label the boxes clearly and inform your mover.

Fridges/Freezers

Consume/dispose all groceries in the fridges, if possible, so that you do not need to worry about bringing these groceries to your new house. Empty, defrost and dry out your fridge/freezer one day before the moving. Switch on the fridge/freezer only a few hours after moving to your new house to let the coolants settled down.

Moving your pets

If possible, make arrangements for your pet(s) to stay with a friend, relative or neighbor whom it is comfortable with. As pet(s) are sensitive animals, they may be distressed with strangers coming into the house for the move. If you cannot find a suitable candidate to take care of your pet(s) during the move, then you may secure your pet in one room to minimise any inconvenience. Make a tag with your name, new phone number and place it onto its collar for the day of the move. In the event that they do really escape during the move, this will increase their chances of getting back to you.

Moving your fish

Never move your fish in their tank. Take the fish out and then remove the water from the tank. Fish should be transported in clean, strong, polythene bags part filled with the tank water. Make sure that you seal the bags leaving a good air pocket above the water. Secure the bags with 2 strong rubber bands and try to use double bags to reduce the chance of leaks. Gently place the bags into a box and clearly label the box with the position arrow or the words “this way up”. Do not feed your fish for at least 24 hours before the move. By doing this you will minimize wastes in the bag. This could harm the fishes, especially those larger fishes that regurgitate food when stressed. Do not forget to keep living plants also bagged up with enough tank water to keep them moist.

Moving your plants

Plants are one of the items that will take up most space in the truck. Cut off any protruding branches/stalks, which might break off or cause a problem during the move. On the moving day, drain off excess water from the plant pots/vases. Line a box with plastic sheet or newspaper. If the pots are breakable, separate them with newspaper and clearly label the box “fragile”. Do not shut the lid so that the moving team can see that there are plants inside and won’t stack anything on top of the boxes. Large pots should be placed inside plastic bags to prevent the soil from falling out.

Don’t pack these:

• Flammables. This includes: Paints, thinners (paint removers, etc.), lighter fluid, liquid reservoir lighters, cleaners, adhesives,  fuels (not even for lawnmower), glues, inks, acids, corrosives, or pesticides.
• Gasoline (also called petrol). More details here.
• Perishables, plants, flowers and food.The golden rule for perishables food (eg meat, dairy foods, salad dressings, eggs) is to keep hot food hot and cold food cold. Bacteria grow at temperatures between 5 and 60 degrees C. Keeping food either below or above these temperatures will keep your family safe from food poisoning. Keep perishable foods in an esky along with an ice brick. Throw away leftover BBQ meat that has been sitting around at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
• Do not place medicine in the same box as food.
• Do not pack kitchenware or other heavy items in the same box with dishware.

Pack a “survival” kit which you carry in your car, or have first off the truck:

• Basic Tools Hammer screwdriver, knife, tape, etc.
• Bathroom products Soap, toilet paper, towels, etc.
• Kitchen items Disposable utensils, cups, plates and snacks, drinks, etc.
• Cleaning products Cleansers, broom, dustpan, sponges, etc.

Source : European Kitchens

Once you know you’re moving, you can begin packing your kitchen right away. Start with your rarely used serving dishes, seasonal items and minor appliances. Next, tackle your large serving bowls, tablecloths, and specialty pots and pans. Keep your everyday dishes for the last week before moving. Many people are buying some disposable plates, cups, and utensils for those last few nights when everything is packed away.

Food Items
Use or drop all perishables before moving. Boxed or canned goods should be packed in small boxes. Dispose of any open packages and wrap glass jars to prevent breakage during moving. Don’t risk moving food products during the summer. The inside of a moving van (especially at Florida) can reach 155 degrees.

China & Glassware
Wrap all pieces of tableware china and glassware individually for moving. Old newspapers will do. Extra care will require for Italians or Europeans Glassware which are very delicates. A generous amount of paper padding and cushioning is required for all china and glassware. Label moving cartons with room, contents and “FRAGILE - THIS SIDE UP“.

Larger china and glass plates, platters and other flat pieces are excellent as the lowest layer in a dish pack. Place cushioning material in the bottom of a moving carton. Wrap each piece individually with clean paper, then wrap up to three in a bundle with a double layer of newsprint. Place these bundled items in the moving carton in a row on the edge. Surround each bundle with crushed paper, being careful to leave no voids or unfilled spaces. Add two or three inches of wadded paper on top of the bundle to protect rims and make a level base for the next tier. Horizontal cardboard dividers can be helpful in keeping layers level. Smaller plates, saucers and shallow bowls could make up a second layer. Wrap and pack in the same way as larger items.

Bowls and Odd-shaped Items
Depending on their weight, these might be used for either the bottom or middle layers. Wrap the same way as flat plates. Stand shallow bowls (soup plates, etc.) on edge in the moving carton and deeper ones (such as mixing bowls) nested two or three together, upside down on their rims. Wrap sugar-bowl lids in newsprint, turning them upside down on top of bowls. Then wrap both together in newsprint, followed by a double outer layer. Wrap sugar bowls, cream pitchers, sauce containers, gravy boats, and similar pieces in newsprint and then a double outer wrapping. Place all upright in the moving carton, then top off the layer with wadded newspaper.

Pots & Pans
Pots, pans, and similar items should be wrapped and packed in medium-size moving cartons. Depending on their weight, these might be used for either the bottom or middle layers.

Cups
Even when using a dish pack and cellular dividers, wrap china cups individually first, protecting handles with an extra layer of clean paper. Then, pack cups upside down. If not using cellular dividers, wrap cups individually first in a double layer of paper and place them upside down on rims in a row on an upper layer with all handles facing the same direction. Top off the layer with wadded newsprint.

Silver & Flatware
To protect silver pieces from tarnishing during moving, they should be completely enclosed in newsprint or plastic wrap. Hollow ware including bowls, tea sets, and serving dishes should be wrapped carefully like fragile items and packed like china. Loose flatware may be wrapped individually or in sets, and in paper, clear plastic bags, or small gift boxes that are then secured with tape. Even if silverware is in a chest, consider wrapping the pieces individually and repositioning them in the chest. Or fill all voids in the chest with newsprint to prevent shifting while moving. The chest can be wrapped in a large bath towel. Figurines and Other Delicate Items be sure the items are well protected with plenty of cushioning. Extra care will require for Italians or Europeans Tableware which are very delicates. Wrap first in tissue paper, paper towels, or facial tissue. Then wrap carefully in paper that has been wadded and flattened out. Small mirrors, plaques, and pictures should be wrapped individually in tissue paper with an outer layer of newsprint. A bath towel or small blanket makes an excellent outer wrapping and padding for glass. Place items on edge in a moving carton.

Small Appliances
Items such as clocks, small radios and other small appliances should be wrapped individually and packed in a moving carton cushioned with crushed paper. If their cords disconnect, wrap them in plastic and secure them to the appliance they belong to. Make sure cords are wrapped so as not to scratch or damage items while moving. Steam irons should be emptied of all water, wrapped and placed in the cushioned bottom of a box. You can make cardboard dividers to use between layers by cutting up small book cartons.

Cookbooks
Pack cookbooks of the same general size together, in small book cartons. Pack books either flat, or with the spine touching the bottom of the carton. Do not pack with spine facing upward, as glue can break away from the binder. Expensively bound volumes or those of sentimental value should be individually wrapped before packing.

More info links
New York Movers Organization
Los Angeles Movers Organization

Mini storage can be a lifesaver! Who do you know that has enough room for all of their belongings? And, if you are moving, these locations can provide you with just the right place to store then in the process. There are many reasons to need this type of storage, but how do you go about choosing one location or the next? Really, is there a difference? There are several things that you should look for in the mini storage units that you plan to purchase.

First, start by knowing what is available in your area. In most cases, you will be able to find several storage units that you can rent. You’ll find them advertised on the web on various websites. Look for several so that you can compare what they have to offer.

Next, you will want to understand just what is out there in several aspects. The first thing to consider is quality. You need an establishment that can provide you with high quality. The environment should be clean and organized. The facility should provide for temperature control as needed. And, you should find no problems accessing the location when you need to.

Next, you need to look at security. What type of security does the location provide for your needs? Although you can lock the unit, can they still get in to it? And, do they provide you with a monitoring system to monitor who tries to enter you storage unit?

Next, you need to check if the mini storage facility provides climate controlled units for your comfort and to protect your personal or business items in all weather conditions.

Finally, you will want to look for a competitive price in the storage units as well. Depending on the area, the quality and the security provided, you should be able to find a very affordable price to choose.

It is important to realize that quality and security are more important aspects for the choice in one mini storage unit over the other. But, it is essential that you get the best price as well.

Read an article By Tom Vanderbilt: Self-Storage Nation - Americans are storing more stuff than ever.

Citysearch Winner Flatrate Moving Gives Insider Insight

NEW YORK, Aug. 4 /PRNewswire/ — Moving can be a stressful time –
especially for urban dwellers at the height of the Summer crunch. The good
news? The right preparations — and mover — can alleviate that stress. To
help people everywhere to make an easier Summer move, nationally acclaimed
moving company Flatrate Moving (http://www.Flatrate.com) has released some superb
tips that will help people prepare for their best move ever — and if they
do it with Flatrate, they’re assured of great service and a guaranteed,
flat-rate price.
  Flatrate’s 20 tips:

* Don’t wait: Start packing 3 to 4 weeks before your move.
  * Start by packing the things you use least, such as books, seasonal
  clothing or sports equipment, and knickknacks.
  * When packing for a Summer move, bag items that may soften in the heat,
  such as candles, soaps, etc.
  * Use the opportunity to organize, getting rid of outdated items you
  don’t use.
  * Use strong cardboard boxes — small boxes for heavier items, large
  boxes for lighter items. Don’t overpack.
  * Don’t scrimp on Packing Tape (and always buy more than you think
  you’ll need).
  * Pack your books flat, alternating bindings so they stack evenly.
  * To stay neat, concentrate on packing one room at a time, stacking
  finished boxes against one wall.
  * Use your computer to print out labels indicating each box’s source
  room, and attach to each completed box (also saving valuable unpacking
  time).
  * Pack alarm clocks, medication, valuables, urgent items in a separate,
  clearly marked box or bag. Make copies of important documents such as
  wills, contracts, and passports.
  * Always wrap nuts and bolts in a clearly labeled plastic bag.
  * Empty dressers completely (furniture tends to break more easily if not
  emptied first).
  * Beware of hidden costs from less scrupulous movers. To avoid
  additional charges on moving day, (1) provide movers with a copy of
  your inventory list before quote, and (2) get a guaranteed,
  all-inclusive price in writing, before the move.
  * A good mover should quilt and secure furniture and large items, and
  help to pack and unpack major electronics. They should also provide
  wardrobe boxes on moving day.
  * One less-known item: Most movers will not reassemble Baby Cribs, for
  important safety reasons, so make sure to have a knowledgeable person
  ready to do so.
  * Keep a complete inventory list of everything to be moved. Jot down
  serial numbers on all electronic equipment.
  * Wrap dishware and glasses individually. Bundle flatware in groups of
  three, then wrap. Separate dishware with packing paper (newspaper may
  leave ink stains).
  * Do not pack flammables like aerosol cans, paints, or gasoline.
  Carefully dispose of gasoline and oil from machinery beforehand.
  Don’t pack perishables like frozen foods, produce, or plants –
  transport these yourself.
  * Don’t place soaps, sprays, polishes, and medicine in the same box as
  food. Don’t pack heavy items with dishware.
  * Take care of your moving team in the Summer heat. Keep chilled water
  or soda available so they don’t dehydrate. If you’re delighted with
  your move, don’t forget to tip upon completion.
  Flatrate Moving was recently voted New York’s “Best Mover 2006″ by
Citysearch. Visit them on the web at http://www.Flatrate.com or
http://www.Flatratemoving.com.
  This press release distributed by PRWEB (http://www.prwebdirect.com), a
service of eMediaWire.

Here are some tips that you may not have thought of before. This is a list that I’d like to keep adding to, so if you have a quick tip, comment me and I’ll add it to the list.

[_] 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”.
[_] 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 extra free spots with lighter linens. This can be done with your washer and dryer and vegetable crisper in the refrigerator storage.
[_] 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. Some moving companies don’t like you using garbage bags, so do so minimally. 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.

Elite Luxury Moving

Imagine the decadence of a truly luxurious move—with everything planned on your behalf, no boxes to pack or unpack, and with even your electronics, computers and TVs connected upon arrival. The kind of move you’ve dreamed of, where all you have to do is come home.  Introducing Elite Luxury Moving.

If you’re among thousands of people who have picked up and moved their family to a new home or a new community, you have fresh memories of some of the ups and downs or thrills or frustrations of moving. Drawing from personal experience moving in Los Angeles, I know there are lots of ways to help make your household move easier and more smooth. Read here for help to get your life, and your possessions, organized for a peaceful and exciting move.
Make a list.
Write everything down! You’ll thank yourself later. Before you pack even one box, create a simple record keeping system. Create a computer-printed list of numbers with a space to write the contents. Or have a spiral-bound notebook for the job. You’ll place a number on EVERY box you pack and list the contents on your list. Don’t put the list down unless it’s in a place you’ll call Packing Central. This is where you’ll find your labels, marking pens, box tape, and other supplies.
When describing the box contents, be specific — “A-D files” is better than “files”, and “Tulip dishes” rather than “misc. kitchen“.
Have plenty of supplies.
Don’t make me say this twice– you’ll need LOTS of boxes–probably more boxes than you think, and having enough boxes will make your life easier! (If you buy your boxes from a moving company, you can always return unused boxes for a refund. If you got them free from the grocery, just toss any leftovers.) Have about 10 boxes set aside to use for last minute items on moving day, such as bedding, clothing, and cleaning supplies. You’ll need strong plastic packing tape to close up the boxes securely. Use unprinted newsprint (newspaper can stain your items) or packing paper or bubble wrap to wrap and cushion household good. Again, you’ll need lots more supplies than you think, so get extra so the packing can go smoothly. Return any unused supplies after the truck is packed.
Utilize wardrobe boxes.
These tall boxes are perfect for bulky, lightweight items such as comforters, pillows, and blankets, as well as clothes that need to remain hanging. Call your mover to ask the width of the wardrobe boxes they’ll be bringing. Then measure the clothes in your closets (including coat closets) to see how many wardrobe boxes you’ll need. You can also use them for closet storage boxes, shoe boxes, and other bulky items such as fabric bolts, large baskets, or gift wrap tubes.

Don’t make the boxes too heavy to lift, however. One mover told the story of someone who put a bowling ball in a wardrobe box! When the box was lifted off the truck the bottom gave way, sending the bowling ball on a wild ride down the ramp, across the street to the gutter, then down a hill where it finally came to rest in a roadside ditch. (Is that a strike or a spare?)
Strategize wardrobe box use.
Moving companies will be happy to deliver boxes ahead of your moving day. Or if you’re doing the move yourself, get things organized as early as possible. A few days before your move, fill some sturdy handled shopping bags with bulky closet items such as shoes, sweaters, belts, and jeans. On moving day, fill the bottom of the wardrobe boxes with some of the shopping bags, then add your hanging clothing. Pack hanging items tightly so things won’t move around and fall off of hangers. Finally, cover the shoulders of your clothes (a dry cleaning bag works well), then add a few purses or sweaters on top. You’ll have fewer boxes, and closet items remain together. Also, the shopping bags will make it easier to retrieve your belongings from the bottoms of a tall wardrobe box.
Color coordinate.
Designate a color for each room in the new home, such as yellow for kitchen, orange for dining room, etc. Apply colored stickers on the box near the box number. In your new home. Put a matching sticker on the door to each room. The los angeles movers will know where to put everything when they arrive at the desitination. It’s also helpful to post a big sign on the wall in the room where you want boxes stacked, (”Boxes here please”) to keep them out of furniture and traffic areas.
For MORE moving tips, go on to Page 2 and find out more about strategies for filling wardrobe boxes, making a cleaning kit, and using “personal” boxes.
Insist on keeping things together when you or the movers are packing boxes. Keep bookends with books, light bulbs with lamps, and extension cords with appliances. Small, loose parts can be attached to the item they belong to with tape or placed in small envelopes — to keep picture hooks with pictures, shelf brackets with a bookcase, a special wrench and bolts with the wall unit. Keep larger corresponding items (such as a cable TV cord) in Ziplock bags, and tape these to the underside or back of the item. As a backup, have a “Parts Box” open on the kitchen counter and fill it with cables, cords, parts, pieces, brackets, or nails that are removed from any items of furniture. Keep this box with you, or mark it well with a rainbow of colored stickers so it can be easily located on move-in day.
Pack ahead.
Anything you can pack ahead will save you time on moving day. If it’s summer, get your winter clothes out of the way. You don’t really need 5 radios or TV’s around your house for the last few days there. Box up your shampoo and extra toothpaste and live out of a travel cosmetic case for the last week or two. Pare down cooking utensils and food supplies to bare essentials. Wastebaskets can also be packed (put things in them!) while you switch to using plastic grocery bags (hang them on a cabinet door or door handle to collect trash.) Packing Tips>
Consolidate cleaning supplies.
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 la movers empty it.
Use your luggage.
Fill luggage and duffle bags with clothing, sheets, towels, and paper goods. Even for local moves you’ll be able to quickly spot your navy suitcase holding your favorite sweaters, whereas “Box #189″ might remain elusive for days.
Safeguard valued items.
It’s a good idea to keep valuable possessions, such as silverware, collections, or antiques, with you. If you have a long move and no room in your car, bury the items in a box titled “Misc. from kitchen pantry”. Either way, check your homeowner’s insurance to see how you are covered during the move, and if you need additional insurance from the mover. Also, find out what paperwork (receipts, appraisals, and photos) you might need to file a claim in case of loss. Safety tips>
Keep important papers with you.
Your list of “important” papers might include: birth certificates, school records, mover estimates, new job contacts, utility company numbers, recent bank records, current bills, phone lists, closing papers, realtor info, maps, and more. Don’t leave these with the mover. Keep them with you!
Personal boxes.
Use brightly colored storage tote boxes, one for each person. Let each family member fill theirs with items they’ll want ‘right away’ in the new home — a set of sheets, a towel, a couple of extension cords, a phone, nightlights, address book, pens and paper, keys, kleenex, and travel cosmetic case, and so on.
Moving may not be the most fun you’ve ever had, but planning ahead will go a long way toward making the process bearable.

The following tips often help children get used to the move before, during and after a family relocates.

Tips

Include the children in making plans for the move. For example, take them house-hunting with you.

Help your child/ren learn about the new area.

Through play-acting with dolls, boxes and a wagon, children can get a feeling of “moving”.

Let the children help decide how their new rooms are to be arranged and decorated.

Encourage children to exchange addresses and phone numbers with their friends.

Prepare a package for each child containing snacks, some clothing, a few favorite toys and maybe a new toy,for the move.

Take a “family break” as soon as the major unpacking is done. Don’t try to do everything when you arrive, take everything slowly and let things get on track.

Parents should spend time after the move listening to each child about new schools and new friends.

Follow progress in new schools. Accompanying your child/ren to school the first few days may ease tension.

Any lingering abnormalities (loss of appetite, insomnia, constipation, diarrhea, menstrual disorder) should be reported to a doctor.

If your move involves suburban to rural, or vice versa, caution children about new situations they will face.
Source:http://www.moving.org/brochure/children.html