 1Pack an overnight bag containing all the essentials.
Chances are, you’ll be too tired to unpack your things. You’ll want your essentials within easy access, including a change of clothes if you’re going back to work the next day as well as all your toiletries. It’s also a great way to transport a laptop, which could run the risk of getting stolen during a move. |  2Pack the items you will need FIRST in a clear plastic bin.
This includes things like a box cutter, paper towels, trash bags, eating utensils, select cookware, power strips, phone chargers, toilet paper, tools, etc. The clear bin allows you to see inside; it also separates itself from the myriad of cardboard boxes. |  3Wrap your breakables (dishes, glasses, etc.) in clothing to save on bubble wrap.
Two birds, one stone: you’re packing your clothes and kitchenware at the same time. |
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 4For extra padding, pack your glasses and stemware in clean socks. |  5In addition to labeling what’s in your boxes, add what room they’ll be going into, as well.
When you arrive at your new home, unpack BY ROOM. The unpacking process will feel more manageable.
And remember to label the SIDES of the boxes, not the tops. This way, you’ll be able to identify them even if they’re stacked. |  6If you can, show up to your new home before the move and pre-clean the bathroom and kitchen.
Put up a new shower curtain liner and stock some new bath towels and toilet paper, as well. You’ll want to take a hot shower after a long day of moving. |
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 13If you have a lot of fragile valuables, hiring movers as opposed to asking friends can end up paying for itself.
Many movers come with insurance, which means if something breaks, they have to compensate you. You might want to weigh the pros and cons though — they won’t want to be responsible for a television that isn’t properly packed in its original box and could end up charging you upwards of $150 to pack it as they see fit. |  14If you do hire movers, be sure to read the fine print and find out if they have any weird rules.
For instance, some movers will only move things in boxes, not garbage bags. Which means you’ll be paying them extra for unnecessary boxes at a marked-up price. |  15If you’re renting, take photos of your cleaned-out old home and your new home before moving in.
This is essential if you ever hope to get your deposit back. It will save you major headaches with difficult landlords who charge you cleaning and repair fees unnecessarily when moving out. |
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