Start the packing process early. The earlier you begin packing, the more organized and stress-free you’ll be.

Mark all moving containers with the contents and location they go in your new home. Trust us, this will make your move exponentially better. You and/or your movers can lose a lot of time digging into boxes to figure out what they contain and where they go in your new home.

Make a list of all utilities you’ll need to contact to set up end-of-service dates and final bill details; likewise with start-of-service dates at your new home. Check off each utility as you make arrangements.

Make a similar list for all other bills such as mortgages, auto loans/leases, credit card and cell phone accounts.

De-clutter and purge unwanted items. The more items you can donate, give away or sell, the lighter your load will be which can save you packing time, loading time and ultimately – money.

Additionally, stock up on packing supplies. Moving boxes, bubble wrap, packing foam, packing tape, plastic totes – anything and everything you can gather ahead of time will help when it’s time to begin packing.

If you’re having Coastal Van Lines, Inc. do the packing and moving, make sure to separate valuable and/or irreplaceable items like important paperwork/documents, jewelry, family heirlooms, keepsakes, photos or any other items you’d feel more comfortable moving yourself.

Try to move during the week when more services like banks, government offices, utilities, mechanics and tow-services are open, in the event you run into any problems and need assistance.