Snup's Moving Tip

I've moved many times.  Sometimes I've known way in advance I was moving.  Sometimes I had days.  Needless to say I have a couple tips.

• Don't just throw stuff in boxes.  Trust me on this.  
• Don't pack stuff that is dirty.  Because when the boxes start to smell...  And then there is the I packed my winter coat dirty and now it is 8 months later and freezing and it's all icky.
• Purge and donate.  Don't pack anything you don't actually use or want any more.  Why move it only to get rid of it when you unpack?  Save your back and save your boxes for stuff you want.
• And on that note, get rid of stuff that doesn't fit you.  If you lose weight, you'll be so happy you will go out and buy all new clothes. :)
• Label your boxes.  Stuff is not a label.  Office stuff is even more not a label.
• Pack like things together.  This may mean putting physics books in one box, and fiction books in another.  Label them physics books and fiction books.  Because when you suddenly get a job adjuncting in physics you will save your self effort in looking for the books while everything is chaotic.
• Prioritize.  I've never made a move where stuff didn't get left behind.  Twice it was because things wouldn't fit.  The boxes with all your important documents, your jewelry, things you would die without, be sure to put those in special boxes.  Put stickers on them.  PACK THEM FIRST!  At one place I left all the rubbermaid behind and I was like eh.  Another place I had to take stuff out of the truck and rearrange to get my clothes in the truck.
• Clean first, then pack.  There's nothing like tripping over stuff with moving boxes.  This also gives you the added benefit of giving you a better idea of how much stuff you really have.
• Luggage.  Boxes for clothes you are currently wearing.  That way you can find them fast because they will stick out.
• Rubbermaids:  good for corralling small stuff and then putting in large boxes. Then you can empty them and use them for food.
• EAT ALL YOUR FOOD or give it to a food pantry.
• If you have time, take it slow.  Do a little bit each day. Feelings of being overwhelmed quickly happen.  If it is a forced move, you will already be upset.
• If your stuff is going to be in separate places, make a list.  Not I put 6 boxes in a storage locker.  But: I put 6 boxes of Christmas decorations in the basement.  My table and tools are at the storage locker.  I have no idea where my pots and pans are at this point in time.  I hope they are safe....
• Pack stuff you won't need for awhile first.  If it's the middle of summer, pack up those Christmas decorations!  They should already be somewhat stored so it might go a bit faster.
• Don't make the boxes so heavy you can't pick them up and carry them to where ever you need.  You might have to hike those boxes up and down stairs or down a long hallway.
• Feed the people who help you.  Pizza and beer/soda are always good.
• Take breaks.  10 minutes won't make that big of a deal...but will help your back.
• Play music.  Groove.
• When in doubt, tape.  Lots and lots of tape.
• Sharpies are your friends.