No matter the scale, moving is stressful. After all, you are disassembling a familiar lifestyle, packing it into boxes, transporting it to a new location, and then reassembling it in a new environment. The process is disruptive and a headache to juggle. But it's not that hard nor impossible. Once you know where and when you are going to move, it's time to get organized. Having a plan and staying organized smoothes the process, especially if the unexpected happens.

Your Electronics: be your own best roadie!

Determine which, if any, of these items you can live without for a few weeks and pack those first. Make sure they have been turned off and unplugged for 24 hours to assure they are at room temperature.

Whenever possible, pack electronics in their original cartons. If that's not possible, use plenty of proper packing materials as padding. Comforters and blankets make great wraps for stereo and computer equipment, and pillows provide good cushioning.

Write "FRAGILE" clearly on the outside of cartons containing breakables or delicate electronics. Also label "This Side Up" with arrows on boxes containing electronics.

Use sturdy boxes and reinforced packing tape (masking tape just isn't strong enough). Pad the bottom of your box with packing, then wrap electronics with newspaper (or blankets, sheets) and place them in the carton.

Electronic equipment set ups are seldom easy to recall. Make a diagram or take pictures of the fronts and backs of your current assembly as a guide. Label your cords and cables to attach to the correct input/outputs.

Packing the Computer Monitor or Flat Panel TV:

Technically, you can move your flat panel TV or monitor by laying it flat. HOWEVER, if you do this make sure the entire screen is both supported and cushioned against any sudden bumps that could crack the glass screen. Also, do not stack anything on top of it.

With this in mind, though, it might be easier to transport your flat panel tv/monitor by loading it into the truck standing on its side and braced on both sides by furniture that won't crush or smash up against it. When in doubt, use the original packing but if that isn't handy, use some blankets or PLENTY of bubble pack. Plasma and LCD TVs might be thin but they can be really heavy so have someone help you pack it. Crating for max protection is recommended.

Last Minute Details:

Leave your phone connected throughout moving day. Make sure it's one of the last things you pack.
As you load up the truck, check closets, cabinets, and storage lockers for any overlooked items. Keep your eye peeled for things that might be a parts that came loose from something you have already packed.

So now the truck is loaded and it's time for one last look around. Before you leave, double check the following:

• Water shut off?
• Furnace and air conditioner shut off?
• Light switches turned off?
• All utilities arranged for disconnection?
• Windows shut and locked?
• Old house keys surrendered?
• Does the truck driver know the address and directions to get there?
• Did you forget anything?

Just In-Case Stuff:

As the saying goes, it's always good to be prepared. So in case the unexpected happens during your move, such as the truck being delayed, it's good to pack a "Just In Case Box" to take with you---just in case your things need to catch up to you:

• Keys to new house
• First-aid kit
• Paper plates
• Canned Goods
• Plastic silverware
• Can opener
• Cooking Utensils
• Soap
• Toilet Paper
• Paper towels
• Wash cloths
• Snacks
• Bottled water
• Disposable cups
• Special items for children
• Pet food/dishes
• Travel alarm clock
• Check book
• Sufficient cash
• Credit cards
• Identification cards
• Hammer, pliers, wrench, screwdrivers, tape measure
• Flashlight (check batteries)
• A box of light bulbs