You can collect cartons from grocery stores. Liquor store boxes, however, are usually much sturdier. They also have dividers that make them ideal for packing glasses, vases, and bottles.

All boxes should have covers on them, so they can be closed up and sealed.

If you can’t gather enough free boxes from nearby retailers, you can purchase boxes from the post office, movers and office supply stores. Get an assortment of sizes. Don’t give up and pack things in trash bags, because they’re more likely to get thrown out by mistake.

You’ll also need stacks of wrapping paper. Newspaper works well, but the ink will rub off and can smear your movables. Never, for example, use newspaper to wrap white lampshades.

Get good sealing tape (at least 1.5 to 2 inches wide) and a few thick, permanent markers.

Don’t just mark boxes "Kitchen" or "Bathroom." Be very specific and label the contents of each box. Number each box and keep a running tally of what’s in where.

For example, note on your checklist that you have "Five bathroom towels in Box 22." Such documentation will be very handy if you need to file an insurance claim. And, as tedious as it sounds, keeping an accurate inventory will make unpacking much less frantic - especially when you’re digging around for your coffee machine to get that first caffeine fix in your new home.

When you write or label each box, make sure you label every side.

If you can, pack your electronics and appliances in the boxes they came in, complete with the Styrofoam padding around the corners. If you don’t have adequate padding, you can use stuffed animals, blankets, and clothing where appropriate.

Wrap glasses individually in paper and stuff them. You may be able to nest two or three glasses together in a snug group. Pack wine glasses and stemware separately.

Place sheets of wrapping paper between flatware and then wrap the entire bundle, sealing it with tape.

Cover chains on bicycles to keep grease from getting on other items.

Tape and wrap sharp edges on power tools to prevent injury and unexpected rips.

Cover furniture with blankets to protect finishes and edges, and remove and individually wrap table legs.

Try to use the right container for the right job. Pack heavy items in small boxes and lighter items in larger ones.

Books, for example, should be packed in small boxes and stood on end to avoid warping.

Lamps, framed pictures, and mirrors offer unique challenges. Try to find or purchase cartons especially designed to handle large pictures or tall lamps.

Do not pack lamps with the bulbs or shades. Nest lampshades together and keep in a separate box.

Professional movers cannot legally transport such material, and it’s unsafe for you do to so as well.

In addition to the obvious danger of causing a fire, packed combustibles can release fumes that can ruin other belongings in the truck.

Drain the gas from your lawn equipment and power tools. And seal any oil leaks.

If you’re using a professional mover, try to get estimates from at least five companies.

Van lines charge by weight (based on number of boxes, number of rooms, and furniture type) and distance. Many also offer packing services for additional fees. Ask for references and specific deadlines.

If you’re moving yourself, make sure to factor in extra costs for dollies, piano-lifting equipment, blankets and other moving material.

Yes, moving is stressful, but the journey will be much smoother if you approach the task with organization.

Brad Boisvert is a real estate professional with RE/MAX Coast to Coast Properties in Portsmouth. Call him at 431-1111 ext. 3812 or e-mail bradb@worldpath.com