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Mark your boxes to save time when unpacking.

2. Always prepare a "load-last" carton that contains items you want access to right away, like a coffeepot, filter and coffee grounds; paper plates, cups, and napkins; paper towels, telephone, flashlight, basic tools and anything else you may not want to hunt for on moving day. Place difficult-to-locate items such as hardware and the remote control in a plastic sandwich bag. Add a label and put it in your "load-last" carton.

3. Get the children involved. Have them decorate a sign with their name on it and hang it outside the bedroom at their new house. Not only does it help get them involved in the moving process, it will also help movers identify where the boxes should be placed.

4. Be sure to mark each box, clearly indicating the room it belongs in as well as the contents on both the top and side of each box. Use a dark-colored marking pen that is easy to read.

5. Protect your mattresses and furniture by covering them with old sheets. Fitted sheets work especially well.