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Aside from the exhausting task of having to securely pack all of your belongings, moving to a new city or even just a new apartment building generates a long to-do list. From finding a job in another state to the stress of moving with pets, there’s a lot to prepare for. Around the corner or cross-country, moving from one home to another can be a frustrating experience, but Ali Wenzke, author of The Art of Happy Moving (William Morrow), is here to help. If packing tape and bubble wrap are in your future, try her four easy tips for a smoother move.

Be specific when labeling packed boxes. Include the room where each box should land, along with notes about the box’s actual contents, and draw a heart if it contains any favorite items. For example, Wenzke says, “Label a bathroom box filled with assorted items: Master Bath: bathrobe, slippers, tissue holder, soap dispenser, vanilla candle, hand towels.”

Don’t assume Sharpies, rubber bands and box cutters will magically appear moving day. Make an essentials kit of everything you’ll need at both houses. Wenzke suggests including scissors, tape, snacks, paper plates and disposable cutlery, bungee cords, tie-down straps or nylon rope, garbage bags, toilet paper and hand soap.

Moving comes with loads of paperwork, so don’t leave yourself scrambling to find those important documents. Put them in a folder and keep it handy on moving day, Wenzke says. Include moving contracts, receipts, medical records, prescription information, birth certificates and school records. And for a backup, scan those must-have documents and email them to yourself, or save them on your phone.

Make a bucket list of things to do in your current home and city before moving day, Wenzke recommends. “Enjoy your favorite places one more time or visit new spots you’ve dreamed of going to for years,” she says. Whether you want one last cup of coffee at your favorite diner or a stroll through the neighborhood’s prettiest park, add it to your list. And keep the future bright by making the same list for your new home.

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