Everyone knows that packing a home up for a move is one of the worst jobs.  But it offers a great opportunity to clear out clutter and organize your household.

 Here are some tips to make the packing a little less stressful and more productive.

• Develop a master "to do" list so you won't forget something critical

• Sort and get rid of things you no longer want or need

• Have a garage sale, donate to a charity or recycle

• Don't throw out everything.  If your inclination is to just toss it, ask yourself how frequently you use an item and how you'd feel if you no longer had it

• Pack like items together...  Put toys with toys, kitchen utensils with kitchen utensils

• Decide what if anything you plan to move yourself...  Precious items such as family photos, valuable breakables, or must haves during the move, should probably stay with you

• Use the right box for the item... Loose items encourage breakage

• Put heavy items in small boxes so they're easier to lift... Keep weight under 50 lbs. if possible

• Don't over pack boxes and increase the chances they will break

• Wrap every fragile item separately and pad bottom and sides of boxes

• Label every box on all sides... You never know how they'll be stacked and you don't want to have to move other boxes aside to find out what's there

• Use color coded labels to indicate which room each item should go in... Color code a floor plan for your new house to help movers

• Keep your moving documents together, including phone numbers, driver's name, and van number... Also keep your address book handy

• Back up your computer files before moving your computer

• Inspect each box and all furniture for damage as soon as it arrives

• Remember, most movers won't take plants