Use the proper packing materials. Sturdy boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, a razor knife and packing peanuts can all be purchased at local moving or shipping companies. Wardrobe boxes and other specialty boxes can be found there too. Sturdy boxes can also be retrieved from wholesale companies, at no charge, after a shipment.

Other great types of reasonably priced padding for your boxes include wadded-up newspaper, old pillows and blankets.

Pack one room at a time, labeling each box appropriately with a dark water-resistant marker (on top and side) including a description of its contents and which room the box is going to.

Label boxes containing breakable or sentimental items with "Fragile"

Keep a detailed list of what items are packed in each box to make unpacking easier.

Empty all drawers of breakable or spill able items. To safeguard against unnecessary damage, it's a good idea to put all furniture knobs, feet, screws, etc. into one container, that you can keep with you, so the parts won't get lost.

Do not pack flammable goods or heat-sensitive items like candles, records, audio and video tapes, computer disks, propane tanks, aerosol cans, oil-based paints, and certain cleaning fluids.

Wrap items individually and always place a layer of crushed paper in the bottom of the carton for cushioning. Fill empty spaces with additional crushed paper.

Make sure cartons are firmly packed, with heavier items on bottom and lighter ones on top.

Pack according to the season if you'll be putting some boxes in storage, mark the boxes accordingly.