Moving Tip: Get the Right Boxes

Use small boxes for heavier items and larger boxes for lighter items. Smaller boxes are sturdier and less likely to break than large boxes heavily weighed down. Large boxes can hold clothes, bedding collections, etc. Books should be in smaller boxes. Before buying new boxes from a moving store, try to get free boxes from nearby stores (Target, Walgreens, Rite Aid, Wal-Mart, K-Mart, Office Max, Office Depot, Ralph's, VONS'Safeway, etc.) Call the stores and find out when they get new shipments in. Ask if someone can set aside some boxes for you to pick up later. Boxes may be already broken down and will probably be the larger-sized ones. But that's okay because if you're only packing light items, they can afford to be a little worn down. It may still be inevitable. You may need to buy some boxes, but think of how much money you saved from getting free ones.

Moving Tip: Using Towels as Buffers

When you're packing breakable or rough-surfaced items such as dishes and cookware, wrap them in towels to protect them. It's cheaper than buying bubble wrap. Plus if the towels are clean and the dishes and cookware are, which they should be, you can skip the washing process as you unpack them.

Moving Tip: Three-Day Suitcase

Pack a suitcase with belongings you know you'll need for the next three days (personal care products, hygiene-related, clothing, pajamas, etc). Be sure to include cleaning products because you'll inevitably come across a stain you have to disinfect before moving in your other furnishings.

Moving Tip: Change of Address Forms

Fill out change of address forms, found in post offices or online, six to eight weeks before your move. This way by the time you move into your new residence, all your mail would be forwarded already. And you don't have to worry about any complications regarding credit card statements, insurance forms, or other important documents.