Make a moving checklist

Whether your new home is just down the street or across the state of Texas, moving will be a lot easier if you stay organized. Before you pack even one box, create a simple record keeping system. Place a number on every box you pack and write down the contents on your list.

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Have plenty of supplies

Get more boxes than you think you'll need. If you buy your boxes from a moving company, you can usually return unused boxes for a refund. Don't forget scissors, box cutter, box tape, tape dispenser, permanent markers and packing tissue.

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Keep things together

Keep bookends with books, light bulbs with lamps and extension cords with appliances.

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Color coordinate

Designate a color for each room in the new home. Apply colored stickers on each box and a matching sticker on the door to each room so you or the movers will know where to put everything when they arrive at the new home.

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Get a babysitter and/or pet sitter

If you have small children or pets, make arrangements for babysitters and/or pet sitters for the move day. You will have enough to think about that day.

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Have a "parts" box

Keep this box open on the kitchen counter and fill it with cables, cords, parts, pieces, brackets or nails that are removed from any items. Mark it well so it can be easily located on move-in day.

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Fill prescriptions

Before you get swamped with packing and moving your things, get your prescriptions filled. You'll want to have enough to get you through your entire move.

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Close safe-deposit box

If you are moving to a new neighborhood, don't forget to close out your safe-deposit box. You don't want to leave those important possessions behind.

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Pick up dry cleaning

Don't forget to pick up your dry cleaning before you start packing. Who wants to remember that their favorite shirt is sitting at the dry cleaners in their old neighborhood?

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Return borrowed items

If you have borrowed anything from friends or neighbors, make sure to give those items back before you start packing. It will be one less item to move and you would hate to lose it during this hectic time. Also, don't forget to get back any items you've loaned out.

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Return library books

No need to pack those up and hang onto them, especially if you're moving to a new neighborhood.

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Leave appliance manuals

Before you move out, find the manuals for major appliances you are leaving behind and set them aside for the new homeowners. This little effort will make a huge difference for the new homeowners. You won't need those manuals anyway!