OK--you've done it...said goodbye to all your soon-to-be-former neighbors, secured that new living space for when you get to where you are going, and made arrangements with every possible utility and service provider for your old home and new home as well. Now it's time to pack everything up for the trip to the new place. Whether you are moving just around the corner or across the globe, how you pack the precious items you have spent a lifetime collecting will determine exactly how successful the move really is.

It is imperative that you exercise extreme caution in planning your packing. A little forethought goes a long way where packing is concerned: It will pay off in the long run. Sturdy boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and packing peanuts can all be purchased at most local self-storage companies. These days, it is easier and more convenient to simply order these items online. Wardrobe boxes and other specialty boxes can be found there too. While wadded-up newspaper, old pillows and blankets make for great padding in a pinch, it is best that you purchase the materials that are intended for the job---more than one person has regretted using grandma's favorite knitted afghan as moving padding for their delicate furniture--right after they discover the newly-engraved pattern on the outer face of the piece. more...