Very few people in this world enjoy the process of moving. There’s all the sorting, packing, carrying, organizing, and re-organizing that usually comes with it. Seattle movers put together a checklist meant to make it easy and flawless. A lot of pain can be avoided by following these steps:

Step 1 – Set a moving date.

Step 2 – Set two days prior to your moving date as the deadline to have all issues pertaining to your move resolved.

Step 3 – Get rid of all old clothes and other items you know you will not want to keep. One nice way to do this is by giving to charity.

Step 4 – Create an inventory list that includes everything you did not throw out or donate. Start by listing large items, such as furniture. Include a description and also any serial numbers or other pertinent information that can identify each item. Estimate a value in cash for each item. Once you’re done with furniture and other large items, work down to the tiniest – such as jewelry. There will be things you won’t care to list in detail – this of course can be done and you can just include them in one large, generic category.

Step 5 – If you have not already done so, contact a moving company and send your inventory in order to get an estimate from at least three sources.

Step 6 – Call all utilities companies and let them know of your move-out date. Call utilities companies at your destination and set up installation dates.

Step 7 – If you don’t mind using old boxes, you can find them for free at supermarkets. They usually can be had for nothing from the employees who work at the receiving docks in the back part of the store building. Otherwise, buy enough boxes for your items and assemble them. Make the boxes safer by reinforcing the edges and corners with duct tape.

Step 8 – Pack

Step 9 – Make sure you mark every box according to the room the items came from. Give each box a number and use it on your inventory list to reference what box each item went to.

Step 10 – Pack sensitive documents and valuables in small boxes you can take with you on the moving trip.

On moving day, you will be very thankful you followed steps 1 through 10. You will be able to sit back and let the moving company do their job while you relax.