Moving from your home can be a terrifying thought.Packing up memories as well as tons of toys, dishes, clothes and furniture can be completely overwhelming.Before you jump right in to packing, make sure you have weighed your options of moving on your own or hiring a company to assist you during such a trying time.

Keys to Moving Yourself:

Materials
Packing materials can be costly.Call or stop by local business to see if they will give you their used boxes.Grocery stores will usually have the best variety.Along with the boxes you will need:packing material (such as packing paper, peanuts, bubble wrap), tape and moving blankets for large furniture.

Label
It is helpful to label in detail each box as you fill it.Once you move, unpacking will go smoother if each new room contains only the boxes that belong there.

Keep it Light
You may want to pack boxes full to save space and money, but a box that is too heavy to handle will cause problems. Do not overfill the boxes.If you are packing heavy items, it is better to put them in small boxes to better manage them.

Cushion It
Don't forget to pad all breakable items with the appropriate packing materials such as packing paper, peanuts, or even towels.

Fragile
Make sure to mark boxes if they are fragile.Place these boxes on top of other boxes that do not have breakable items in them.This will help to keep your favorite items intact.

Don't Pack
Leave out certain items that you might need before you have the chance to unpack.You will want to access to:first-aid kits, toiletries, medications, flashlight, snacks and paper goods to eat off of.

Looking for Help:

Referrals
Check with friends, colleagues or your real estate agent for insight on local moving companies.

Pick Three
After asking around, contact at least three reputable movers.When speaking to them, ask if they will be moving you themselves or hiring the job out to contractors.

Schedule an Appointment
When you find a moving company that you are interested in, schedule an in-home appointment with a representative from a moving company.DO NOT take any over the phone estimates.

Questions to Ask
Ask the following questions before you hire a moving company:

How many years have you been in business?What is your full company name, license number, web and e-mail address?Could you provide me with proof insurance and provide references?

No-No's
Never sign any blank paperwork.Also, if anyone besides the moving company that you have hired shows up on moving day, fire them on the spot.