Packing For Your Move

If you've decided on a self-move, I like to start packing as soon as I can so that my move can be as organized as possible.I suggest you start packing two months before the move (if you can).   I will help you know when to pack what so that you can actually live quite comfortably even though you're in the midst of packing.

Finding Boxes  

This is one of the jobs I detest but it has to be done so let's get started.  Don't worry too much about just how many boxes you need.  Boxes can always be gotten rid of if you have too many.  I personally have rarely had too many packing boxes.  You will use your boxes for literally packing your stuff that you're moving, but you'll find you need them in the end for much more than that.  

You'll want to get all sizes of boxes:

1. Small, sturdy boxes for dishes, books, curios, etc.
2. Medium sized boxes for pots and pans, cookie sheets, small appliances, etc.
3. Large boxes for linens, pillows and other light items that are large.
4. Wardrobe boxes for your hanging clothing.
5. Narrow large boxes for your wall art.

Here are places to get boxes:

1. You can buy boxes from rental moving truck businesses such as U-Haul.   www.uhaul.com/MovingSupplies/Boxes   www.pods.com/Moving-Supplies/Boxes-Home.aspx.  You can buy them from most storage businesses.  You can even order them online to be delivered to your home - there are several businesses that do that and here is just one of them:  www.movingdayboxes.com.   If you are going to be reimbursed for your moving, this is the simplest way to get boxes.   If you aren't getting reimbursed, it's the most expensive way.  I have never paid for boxes (except wardrobe and mirror boxes). 
2. You can get boxes from grocery stores.  You do this by calling the store and asking if they have any moving boxes.  They will tell you their policy on that.  Some stores put them out at a certain time of day; some just say to come at a certain time (when they are stocking shelves); some will hold them for you if you ask.  Look for toilet paper/paper towel boxes; canned goods boxes; and cereal boxes.  Be sure to watch out for boxes that they've cut the tops off of.  You won't want those.  The produce section of the grocery store is a great place for good boxes.  Ask for the produce department and then ask that person if they have any banana boxes you could have for moving.  They will usually hold some for you.  The banana boxes are great for dishes and other smaller items because, not only are they sturdy, they have handles!  
3. Liquor stores have great small to medium sized boxes.  They're nice because they have handles and they are sturdy boxes.  Call your local liquor stores - they will tell you what days they stock their shelves and when you can pick up boxes.
4. Car parts stores!  I love their boxes.  They are also sturdy boxes and there are many sizes.  Again, call the stores to find out what day is best to pick up boxes.  I don't know if you'll have one in your area, but I've found the BEST boxes at auto stores that sell hubcaps and wheels.  They are nice medium sized, sturdy boxes ... with HANDLES!  
5. Restaurant and Fast Food places.  They have small to medium sized boxes and are really good for packing your canned goods because they are sturdy and usually have handles.  I love boxes that have handles.
6. Craigslist!  Many fellow movers list their used boxes at www.craigslist.com.  This is by far the easiest way to get boxes.  Many times the boxes are legitimate moving boxes!  Plus, the packing materials are usually thrown in to ... and all for free!  
7. Troll your neighborhood on garbage day.  People who have recently moved in, will put their flattened boxes out for the taking.