1. If you hire a moving company they can pack everything for you, however you should pack your important paperwork and any sentimental items. If you have children allow them to help by packing their toys.
    
2. Make sure that all boxes are clearly labeled on both the top of the box and on at least one other side of each box. Be sure the boxes are clearly labeled with which room they should go into. If you are using movers label the bedrooms at the new house the same way you labeled the boxes.
    
3. If you want to save money and still use the movers you could pack your stuff yourself.
    
4. If you have lots of books please consider either packing them in lots of small boxes or spreading them out among your furniture, such as cabinets and drawers.
    
5. If you are using drawers to move things, please tie them shut so that they do not fly open while moving. Using tape is not a good idea because it may strip paint or varnish. Do not overload drawers. Do not store breakables or heavy items in drawers!
    
6. Be sure to clean out your refrigerator and freezer really well before moving them. To prevent the fridge from smelling use one of these ideas: wipe out the fridge with a damp cloth with vanilla essence, dry out the fridge with a hair dryer especially the corners, and/or put silica gel in the fresh department or fine blend coffee in a piece of muslin, these will soak up any extra moisture. When you have cleaned out the fridge and defrosted the freezer keep the doors slightly open to keep the air circulating just before you move them.
    
7. Be sure to remember to discontinue the following services at your old home: gas, electric, water, phone, newspaper, cable TV, DSL and other local internet services if you have them, and cellular phone.
    
8. Be sure to notify the following of your change of address: post office, credit cards, insurance, magazines, and bank.
    
9. If you have any pets, it will probably be best to move them first and find a quiet place for them while all the moving is happening. For example if you have cats put them in a bathroom with their food, water, and litter box (on the opposite side of the room away from the food). Then leave a note on the door "Please do not enter!" If you have outside dogs put them in the backyard so that they can get used to their new environment and if you have lots of windows inside they can watch everything that is going on. Smaller caged pets especially easily stressed animals should be moved last after all the excitement has settled down.
    
10. Make sure you have plenty of drinks and snacks for the move. Moving is a lot of hard work!

If you plan your move very carefully and use some of the above advise you may find the move relaxing and a little bit fun. Just remember you can take your time with unpacking and this is a perfect opportunity to completely reorganize your home.