Moving into a new home can be exciting – getting to know new neighbors, discovering new places to go and see – moving is really a big event in one’s life. But it can be stressful as well – and unnecessarily so, if you fail to follow these very basic tips:

1. Mark and label your boxes.

Without this, you don’t know what’s inside the dozen boxes you brought with you, much less do you know which box goes in what room. You’ll end up having to open everything and scatter everything before you get anything done. It’s tedious, and it’s a mess. Make an inventory and list down the things you’ll bring – make sure you only bring the things you want to and will fit your new home – so that you can keep track of all your belongings.

2. Know what the house or apartment will be like.

Make plans for your new home like what you’re going to use a certain room for. You won’t be able to organize properly when your boxes come if you don’t do this very important step. Rushing around and deciding everything at the last minute will take a lot of time and will just wear you out needlessly, so best be prepared and have a plan early on.

3. Only bring the things you need and want.

It’s astounding at times to see how much junk so many people bring with them when they move. They may feel somewhat “connected” to a certain piece of furniture or thing they found in the attic, bring it along and pay extra (since more weight and more things mean a bigger bill), and then just end up sticking it back up in their new attic. Why go through all those needless motions, when you can just sell off things you don’t need or don’t suit your new home and lifestyle? Whatever you do, leave all your junks behind and never look back.

4. Make sure that special items are packed well.

Some of your things may need special packaging or extra cushioning when you’re packing them, such as breakables and sharp implements like knives. Make sure that these things are neatly and properly packed, then labelled accordingly to make sure that they aren’t damaged (or cause damage) during transport.

5. Pack your essentials.

Separate all the essential things you will need once you get to your new home. A couple of clothes, toiletries some pots and pans, spoons and forks, those kind of stuff. Pack these things separately so that you’ll have an easier time setting up at least your most basic living needs once you get to your new home.