Labeling

Labeling your boxes is a very simple yet an important step in the moving process. Properly labeling your boxes can prevent some inconveniences, like having your goods delivered to the wrong rooms of your new home. Proper labeling can also reduce the chance of your goods getting damaged.

By labeling your boxes properly, your move will be much more organized and easier for you and your movers. Labeling can save a lot of time when your boxes are being unloaded into your new home. The movers will know exactly what room to put each box in, and you will know what is in them. This will prevent you from having to open boxes to find out what is inside each one. Also, by properly labeling your boxes containing fragile items, your movers will know to be especially carefully when handling these boxes and to not put heavier boxes on top of them.

Here are some ideas on how to properly label your boxes:

• Label what room each box should go in.
• List the contents of each box, so you know what is in it before you unpack
• Write "Fragile" or "Handle with Care" on any box containing delicate or easily broken objects.
• Label any box that you plan on taking yourself as "Do Not Move."
• Label some boxes as "Unpack First" or write a big "X" on them.  This will let you know which boxes contain the most important day to day necessary items.

TIP: You may also want to assign each box a number, and then make a separate list where you record all of the contents of each box. When you begin unpacking, look up each numbered box on your list to find out what is in each one.

Some Other Pointers:

Make sure you use a large and dark permanent marker for your labeling. It is a good idea to have at least two markers handy, in case one gets lost or runs out of ink.  Most moving boxes have labels already printed on them, so you can just write the destination of the box and what its contents are on them. Always label the top and at least one side of each box to ensure that your labels will be seen.