Facing a move, even a small local one, can seem overwhelming at first. You understandably want to take all your prized belongings, from mementos to the more functional items like appliances. But in order to do that, you need to pack them properly in anticipation of the move first.

Packing your home can be laborious and time-consuming, but if you take baby steps and go room-by-room, it won’t seem so bad. Here’s a packing guide for you to follow so nothing gets left behind.

Start Packing ASAP

You may not be looking forward to the task, but it’s important to start packing as soon as you know your moving date. Start with the rooms and items you hardly ever use, taking your time working up to the bigger rooms. By preparing now, you won’t feel overwhelmed and pressed for time as you hurtle towards Moving Day.

A good rule of thumb is to pack two to three boxes a day.

Sort Your Belongings

Now it’s time to pare down your possessions so you’re sure to take only the things that will serve you well in the new place. Concentrate on keeping only practical, aesthetic, or sentimental items that add value to your new house. It’s easy to waste time and money packing things you no longer need, that are broke, that don’t fit or that you just don’t like anymore. Get rid of it now, and your move will be much lighter!

Create an Inventory

This way, you can keep track of everything you own as well as its condition at the time of packing. Take photos of the more expensive things. In the same vein, create a packing calendar to organize a timeline of what you still need to do as you approach Moving Day.

Designate a Packing Station

Choose a little-used room such as a craft room, basement or guest room, and use it as your packing station. This is where you can store all your packed boxes so they don’t get in the way and clutter your main living area. Stock this room with all the necessary supplies you will need during the process, such as tape, boxes, packing paper, markers, etc.

Know How to Pack Safely

Research the best ways to pack awkward, delicate or odd-shaped items so they make the trip unscathed. You will thank yourself later for a proper packing job when you go to open up all the boxes in the new place and everything is safe and sound.

Pack an Essentials Box

This box will contain everything you will need in the last day in your old home and the first day in your new one. Take it with you in your car so you have ready access to it upon arrival. In this box, include prescriptions, chargers, cleaning supplies, paper plates and utensils, wipes, special toys for your kids, spare saline solution and contacts, and anything else you can’t live without.

Go Room by Room

As said earlier, you’ll want to start with little-used rooms first because you won’t need those items to live. Then, as Moving Day gets closer, tackle the spare bathrooms, playrooms, bedrooms, living room, main bathroom and kitchen last.