Moving Day can prove to be one of the most stressful days in your life. There is always so much to do and not enough time to get it done. With these simple steps, you can feel a little more in control and prepared.

Don’t save packing until the last day!! This is the worst mistake you can make when you move. It’s safe to say that every box will take about 30 minutes to pack. (This is assuming that you want to pack in an orderly fashion.) Taking the 30 minute estimate into consideration, start slowly and at least a couple weeks before your move. Begin by packing those things you know you won’t miss until you get in the new home. Try packing a few boxes every day and by the time your move arrives, there won’t be much left to do except for a few last minute items.

Have supplies on hand. There is nothing worse than going to pack and realize you are missing the basic necessities. Assign someone to pick up plenty of packing tape, magic markers, labels, and boxes.

Remember the perishables! Try not to do any major grocery shopping as your moving date edges closer. It’s extremely difficult to transport liquid food items that have been opened. You may want to consider eating out the week before you move. If you are planning on taking the refrigerator or freezer, make sure to get them cleaned, defrosted and dried out. Then you will be ready to transport them when the time comes.

Have a labeling system in place. Instead of marking the boxes “Jane’s room,” it would be much easier to use “Upstairs - Room 2.” Then, put a sign on that room showing that it is “Upstairs - Room 2.” If you happen to have any additional help with moving, it would be loads easier to locate areas marked that way. This is something that doesn’t take much effort and pays off extremely well in the end.

Finally, hire the cleaning out. After you have spent the whole day getting your family settled in, you want to concentrate on the new place. Look into getting a cleaning service to come and take care of your old house. Although it will take a little extra money to hire out, it will be money well spent.