snapplegirl, that was my trick, i moved so many times I had it down to a science. I used colored labels so I didn’t have to worry if the movers read English or could read my handwriting. Also the kids were able to help at any age. I put the appropriate colored label on the door to each room so everyone knew which box and which item belonged where. I then numbered the boxes according to importance. So I knew which box to open first in each room.
Tip #2. Put fresh linen on your beds the night before the move, then fold them up in the morning and put them in garbage bags and into the trunk of your car. The minute the movers put your beds together you can make up the beds and the kids can get to sleep. You don’t have to start looking for linen, pillows, blankets, etc. It is all ready to unroll right onto each bed.
Tip #3, never pack dishes or glasses with newspaper, it turns everything black and you have to wash everything again. If you can’t afford to buy bubble wrap use paper towels and all the dishtowels you own.
Tip #4. If you are moving a washing machine, it has to be drained beforehand and sometimes the movers want a plumber to disconnect and reconnect a gas drier. Make those appointments before moving day.
Tip #5. Have a master chart of the labels, box count, etc. So if a box goes missing you know it right away. And you know which one it is and what it contains.
Tip #6. Take pictures (dated) of your belongings and of your furniture even if it has damages before the move. If there is damage after the move take photos so they can’t say that was there before. You will have the before and after pictures.
Tip #7. Try to get a flat rate and not an hourly rate. Also get in writing what type of truck you are getting. You don’t want them to keep making trips to the house with a small truck.
Tip #8. Also remember to take photos (dated) of the walls of both dwellings before and after in case you have claims about damage.
Hatzlocha on your move!