Here is a list of tips which will assist you in planning your move.

Decide whether you will be doing the packing yourself, or hiring movers. If you are hiring a company, make sure that you have made arrangements with them as soon as the date has been decided. If you have any unusual circumstances, such as heavy equipment or narrow staircases, be sure to let them know so that they can plan ahead.

If you are packing your own items, gather all of your supplies. You will need boxes in assorted sizes and heavy duty packing tape. Packing peanuts, paper or bubble wrap is needed for your breakable items. You should also purchase some permanent black markers to mark the boxes. Don't forget scissors and garbage bags.

Rooms should be packed methodically. Do one room in your house at a time. While you are packing, discard any item that you do not want or that you do not use. There is no reason to bring clutter to your new home. As each box is sealed, mark it with a number. Start a master list with each box number and the contents. This way when you arrive at your new home you can easily identify what is in each box.

Put in a change of address with the postal service. They will forward mail to your new home, but it is still a good idea to contact businesses which you receive mail from frequently and change your address. Make sure to switch over or cancel your newspaper service.

Set up a date for all your utilities to be shut off, as well as a date for them to be turned on at your new home. Hire a cleaning service for your old home, as well as your new location. This will reduce the number of things you have to do. You will want to have your new home cleaned and sanitized before you move in as well.

Set up one or two boxes which will contain essentials for your first night in the house. Bed sheets and blankets, a few sets of silverware and plates, an alarm clock and a change of clothes for everyone in the house will allow you to get settled without having to dig through boxes.

There is little doubt that moving is more strenuous than most people imagine. Get organized by planning ahead and things will go much easier.