Packing tips for an easier moving day

There is a science to packing that will make moving out easier and set you up for a smooth move in.

"Have a packing game plan arranged before you start boxing up your belongings," said Jim McEneaney, senior regional vice president for Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage.

"Moving is stressful, but prior planning can make the experience less hectic and get you settled in your new home faster."

Get packing with these tips.

One room at a time. Start with the rooms that are used least, like a guest room or formal dining room, and move through the house ending with the kitchen. This will place the boxes you need most in a position to be unloaded first from the moving truck. It'll also make it easier if you can pack some things in advance of the move.

Mark everything. All boxes should be color coded or marked with information that designates the room it should go in once you land in your new home. Log each carton's information in a book to keep a detailed list of the contents in each box and give each box a number to ensure that every item makes it to your new home.

Pack smart. Make sure that the boxes are secured and will be able to sustain the weight of the contents. Packing tape or gummed tape is better than masking tape. Be sure to pack heavier items at the bottom of the box and lighter items toward the top.

Keep valuables with you. Pull out important documents, such as passports and medical records, and place them in a file that travels with you so they don't get lost. Fragile items or expensive jewelry should also be packed separately so you can personally keep track of them during the move.