4. Dispose of hazardous materials. Motor oil, paint, solvents, fireworks, insecticides, household chemicals and like definitely shouldn't be packed or moved with your household goods. Be smart. If you suspect something might be dangerous, dispose of it properly before you move. Many communities have designated sites or events for collection of hazardous materials. Go through your home and remove these unpackables ahead of time, so they won't accidentally end up in your moving boxes.

5. Mark your boxes. Few people have time or inclination to itemize every item in every box, but that doesn't mean you should ignore organization altogether. Use colored markers or labels to indicate which boxes belong in which rooms of your new home. Make an inventory of your valuables. Pack an essentials kit containing paper plates, plastic cutlery, toilet paper, soap, aspirin, flashlights, telephone numbers, prescription medicines, snacks, pet food and other must-have comforts. Mark this box "OPEN FIRST" in large letters.

6. Tie your cords. Packing and unpacking are tricky enough without having to untangle (and potentially trip over) dangling and out-of-control electrical cords. Wrap each cord around your hand or forearm, then use rubber bands or baggie twist-ties to secure wrapped cords. If you're packing a system with complicated wiring, (e.g., a stereo or a computer) color code electrical cords and sketch a quick diagram so you'll be able to reassemble system in your new home.

Dos and Don'ts

* Do keep your copy of inventory, Bill of Lading, Order for Service, Estimate, household booklet, numbers to call, etc. with you at all times when moving begins. Don’t pack these items with shipment. * Do carefully wrap liquids, cleansers, and shampoos in plastic wrap or liners. * Don’t pack paint, bottles of bleach, gas cans, or other inflammables. It is against federal law for movers to transport flammables and combustibles. * Do back up your PC with copies of all your files. Put in a scratch diskette to park your hard drive. Try to pack PC in its original carton. Remove CD’s from your player before packing and put discs back in their cases. Wrap multi-play cartridges separately. * Do moisten plants before placing them in cartons. Know that professional movers are prohibited from moving plants unless delivery is scheduled within 24 hours or is less than 150 miles away. * Do have your appliance motors bolted to ensure safe arrival.