I'm Back and Moving

Best idea when you get ready to move - downsize all you can.  If you haven't used it in the past year, you probably won't need it.  I missed you saying where you were moving to - are you moving back to California?  I will really miss you on the morning show, but I certainly wish you and your family all the best.  God bless you and God bless K-LOVE!!

JD....My wife and I did this trip twice.  The first time was immediately following our honeymoon; NOT ADVISED.  It was a great time but wrong timing.  I would advise you to get the family involved.  We sent ahead gifts for our daughters so that once the mail arrived, there was something cool that they wanted waiting on them.  Also, ensure whoever packs your stuff packs one room together verses random stuff thrown together.  Lastly, if you are driving, make the trip exciting by hitting cool locations.  (Another way to get the family involved.)  Since you are leaving on I-40, I would advise Nashville for Graceland, Oklahoma City for some really good BBQ and the Crater Canyon in New Mexico.  Those are places that we hit that were really cool.  Avoid just hitting family if possible.  I hope that this helps.

May the Lord bless your home.

Brad & Isabel Goldvarg

Hi there!  My best tip is to save and collect all the plastic grocery bags you can from walmart, target, kroger, etc - use them to pack all the kitchen item, pad the fragile items, boxes, etc.  they do a great job and once you're settled in, the new local store will take them back!    God bless you and your family!       Annette

Label, label, label....  Don't just write kitchen on the box. Give yourself an idea of what's inside. Glasses, everyday plates, plastic bowls, etc.  Most important PRAY for patience and pray for energy.  God bless you and your family.

Congrats on the move!
Go to store such as U-haul.  Purchase "Wardrobe boxes".  On the racks, hang your clothes.  In the bottom put large bulky items up to the base of the clothing.  Slide long skinny rods and the like in the corners.  Above the clothes put very lightweight items such as pillows.  This is well worth the cost of the boxes.  We still use these boxes for storage in our garage.  (Moved 15 times)  May God Bless you abundatly during your adventure

We have moved waaaaaaay too much - the best move we ever had was when we labeled each box in DETAIL - each box had a number, and my husband kept a spreadsheet listing the belongings in each box... We also "sticker-coded" the boxes to determine what room they went in in the house to make it easier on the other side. This gave me such peace of mind knowing the unpacking process wouldn't be nearly as painful! Good luck!!

Listen to audiobooks!!!

It will help the trip to go by faster. When we go on trips both our kids 11y and 6y either listen to the same book or we each have our own, cheap, MP3 player that we can load different books onto for each one.

I highly recommend the Light Series (4 books) by Terri Blackstock or the Redemption Series (5 book) by Karen Kingsbury.

I could write a book, but I am at work. The most important tip I can pass along is when you unscrew or take apart anything,put the screws in a ziplock baggie and tape to the back of the item you took apart. the same goes for cords, tape them to the back of the item. On electonics, xboxes,desktops,routers,modems: do a nuber or letter system, code 1 to 1 or a to a. I know you think you will remember where the cords plug into,but you won't. This makes for easy set-up. Safe Travels!

Use a place called U-Pack (Upack.com) to pack your stuff and enjoy the ride with your family without driving the moving truck!  Pack your stuff high and tight to save $$$.

ABF moving was the best when I moved,
They dropped off a huge truck trailer we filled it up and then they dropped it off at our new house.  Get the big trailer option if u use them.  They were cheapest and super easy.
Have fun, I hope u find the best city and the greatest home
And multiply your friends.

Hi, when packing each room label the room it goes into but add a number 1,2,3,etc depending on the importance of it.  Number 1 means need immediately, 2 means open soon ,3 can wait a bit, etc.  what ever you need the numbers to mean but it may help to know which needs handled quickly.  the numbers may save you writing out what is in each box you'd just know which is the most essential to open first, etc.  Blessings on the move.  

I just moved into a condo after 20 years in the same flat. Two tips:
1. Number every box, and keep a corresponding numbered sheet (or notebook) that lists everything you put into the box. Yes, it's an extra step when you are packing in a hurry, but it REALLY helps when you are unpacking, and either need to find one particular thing, or (like me) have some things you don't need to unpack right away (or for a number of weeks - like me!)

2. Don't forget the "unpack first" box, with bedding, change of clothes, important papers, a few snacks, extra tape, a boxcutter and something pretty or sentimental that can be put out or on a wall to make the new place seem like home right away.

Will be praying, not only for the move, but for your change in roles at KLove, your MIL's settling in process and everyone's transition!

Best lesson I've learned in a move.  Use your beds as the last thing on the truck trailer.  With a box of sheets and pilllowcases.  That way when you unload you immediately put your beds together and then when you are exhausted you can just drop into bed.

You mentioned that you were packing yourself.  I recommend using ABF or PODS to do the hauling from one place to the next.  Both companies let you do the packing and they drive it from point A to point B.  This is much better than renting a U-Haul because you get to drive much faster with your family vehicle and you can do some vacationing on the way if you like.  Moreover, you don't have to worry about the gas costs since U-Haul's average around 10mpg (I got 9.6 mpg moving from PA to CA).  I even think I saved money by going with ABF over U-Haul (on our return move from CA to PA) and had a much more enjoyable time driving across the country, seeing some splendid sites in Colorado and Utah.  

I'd recommend hiring a moving service (like United).  Makes life so much easier!

After moving from MO to NC to MD in a year span I say label, label, label with DETAILS!!  Nothing more frustrating than looking in 20 boxes of things marked "kitchen" to find that one and only cutting board.  If only I had of written "cutting board" on the outside of the box!!  Also, small boxes don't get overloaded to the point you can't lift them.  And if you don't need it...give it away or sell it BEFORE you move!!  Good luck!  

One thing that my husband and I have done with any move is to put colored post-its on the boxes that correspond to the room they are going to go in the new location. For example, boxes with yellow post-its all go to the kitchen, purple is the bedroom, etc. If you have multiple floors you can put the floor number on the post-it. This allow you to reuse the colors. Then in the new location put the appropriate color on the door to the room. That way it doesn't matter who carries the box in the house; they can find where the box goes. And you don't have to think as much during the process.

J.D. just be sure you have lots, and lots, and lots of newpaper. After you move, you'll NEVER want to read that thing again. What a BUMMER that you're moving, but I guess we gaotta go where that guy tell us to go. I'll be praying for you. Thanks for all your service at Klove. God Bless You.

Make sure to take in a separate bag or box......toothpaste, toothbrushes,  toilet tissue, coffee,  coffee maker,  creamora, sugar.  Unpack first and that will help get you started.

J.D., All I can say is God Bless you with your move and downsizing before you go is the very best idea. It just doesn't seem to happen once you are unpacking. The stuff ends up staying in boxes and then you will need to find a way to store all of it after you are unpacked.   Oh, wrap your glassware in towels and washcloths or t-shirts so that you don't have to re-wash them when you unpack. They are clean out of the cupboard and go right back into the cupboard. The plastic bags (if you have them) from the grocery store are good for wrapping up things and padding.

I don't know where you are moving to but if we won't have you in the morning anymore, I am going to miss hearing your voice! Again, may God bless you with this move!

JD,
If you had stuff packed away and have not seen it over the last 12 months, get rid of it! We waisted so much money on moves where we were hauling so much junk from place to place! Will be praying for employment opportunities for your wife! Be blessed!
Roger Hinds (Matt 6:34)

Purchase a spiral bound set of index cards. When you pack boxes number them (we've learned to place the number on all of the sides of the box because we never know what side will be visible when we go to look for them). On an index card place the same number as the box and then create a short list of the important items in that box (mixer, bowls, can opener, etc.) so when you are looking for an item you can thumb through the index cards and see where it is without opening all of the boxes!

Don't tie your dog to the back bumper and then forget it's there when you leave...

I moved in May after my husband died.  I find after 5 months and still unpacking /organizing that I do not remember what I got rid of or threw out.  Therefore, I would suggest that you make a running list of the things you get rid of.  It makes life a little saner when you "can't find it"

I am a PK (Pastor's Kid) so we have moved a few times during my lifetime. All I can say is make sure you have plenty of boxes, tape, and markers to put what is inside the box. Otherwise, you will not be able to find a thing when you get to the new place. Also, try to keep things organized in putting the boxes together room by room.

I labeled all of my boxes as to which rooms they were going to go to when i got to the new house. Then i only packed what i new i would use in the future the rest i donated to salvation army. It was so much easier to organize when i unpacked. I will keep you and your family in my prayers.

Moving Tip - No matter how good of an idea it seems at the time, strapping somebody to the roof of the car in a lawn chair to save space is NEVER a good iea.

ALWAYS checkk your boxes again and label label label and listen to K-LOVE ALLLLLL the way there<3

Pack your beds & bedding last. That way they are the first things to unload & set up. You will be ready for bed & everything else can wait til the next day.
Karyol

My husband is a pastor and we have been married for almost 19 years and we have moved 21 times. One of the things I learned is don't take your clothes off the hangers and put in boxes. It takes up too much time. Just lay a comforter down and put the clothes in it still on the hangers. Wrap the comforter around the clothes and tie in a know. Also if your drawers come out of the dressers, just take out the drawers with the clothes still in them and stack them like boxes.

1. label, label, label
2. pack according to room
3. take advantage of the opportunity to reduce your quantity of possessions
4. pack beds and bedding into the truck last so that it comes out first - then no matter what, you'll have a bed to sleep in when you arrive

Last thing in the truck should be the mattresses, a box of cereal, the coffee pot and the coffee itself.  That way if you are too exhausted to put things in place when you get to your new home, you have a place to rest, cereal for the kids (which will be eaten dry out of the box) and the much needed coffee in the morning to get you going!

Hi JD...  Haven't had a chance to read all tips yet... but here is the one that saved us when we moved from north of Seattle to Oklahoma City...  Color corrdinate your boxes... all kitchen boxes are marked with green marker, living room blue, bathroom orange, etc...  If you have to put boxes in a storage locker for a time, tape paper on the walls labeled with the same markers.  When you unload, you don't have to read what's in box, just have to look at the color... match it up with the color taped on the walls of the locker and stack.  Then you know where all that room is stacked and when you need something, or want to unpack a room at a time, you just look for that color and go for it.

You bless me every morning...  May Jesus bless you with peace, safety and an incredible excitement in your new journey... or as I like to call it... your new assignment.

J.D., I don't have new tips.  Instead, thanks for the ideas from all the listeners.  My husband and I are moving  this week to a smaller house after 25 years in the house we raised our kids in.  We are only moving across town, but I found the hints really helpful, especially color-coding the boxes for each room and writing details of what's in each box.  Thanks to all your listeners and may God bless your move! P.S.  We moved from California to Indiana 25 years ago with 2 kids and a cat.  You can do it!

Hey JD,
The best tip I can give you on moving is to go to the FlyLady website:
http://flylady.net/pages/Flying_MovingTips.asp
Not only will you find great tips for moving stress free, but her website is full of ways to keep your home organized & clean afterwards!
We moved 5 of us from Australia to NC 4 years ago!  10 Suitcases, 5 carry ons, 1 purse by air & then another 8 boxes by sea!  You can do it!  

What I have found ontop of downsizing is to label everything and put a list inside too ) and don't just slap on a packing slip.. write on the box.  and write which room it goes into also.  o and remember to breathe

Hey JD spoke with u this A.M. 10/24/2011 about the name for switchfoot sorry didnt know where to send the info lol. Sorry didnt know u were moving good luck and be safe. going to miss you alot from the morning show but cant wait to here where u will be next. Thanks for all u do God bless you and your family. Get help lots of help to pack and move have a great night.

I'm sure I'm duplicating some of the other comments but the big one for me is to be sure to pack a few "necessities" boxes with toliet tissue, paper towels, important papers you will most likely need to get utilities/school registrations, etc., shower curtains, bath mats, sheets, pillows, a clock, phone chargers, and any essential items you need. Always label these with different colored tape, put them up front in the moving vehicle if possible or last in the truck so they can be the first things unloaded into the rooms you need them in. I've also learned that if you are moving into a home where you want/need to clean first its so much easier to pack all cleaning supplies into a large open tub or bin where you can stick a mop and broom in too that way when you get to the new place all you have to do is grab the bin and have everything you need to clean. Same rules apply for tool boxes-- pack one with the basics and have it handy. You WILL need it.

As far as packing, if it's something you think you may do again I totally think it's worth it to buy the dish saver boxes from uhaul (or anywhere that sells them) with the foam liners for dinner plates, saucers, bowls, cups, glasses, etc. It keeps dishes safe during the move, boxes are all equal size so stack well, and I've used the same box set 4-5 times now and still going strong. Well worth the money. Once you are unpacked, simply store the pieces in a plastic storage container in the attic until you need it again... or donate once moved in.

And a note about moving companies- not sure what companies you have where you are but u-haul doesn't actually guarantee their vehicles... they simply pay you $50 if they don't have it when you go to get it... learned from a bad experience-- $50 doesn't mean much when you have a moving crew ready and no truck! Penske has been an EXCELLENT company for me to use- they DO guarantee, well maintained vehicles, and much cheaper for one-way moves. And for me it's usually worth the money to rent the furniture cloths. They are easy to throw over furniture so you can protect from scratches and it keeps you from using your own comforters/blankets that would just equal more laundry once you get moved.

Best of luck and many prayers! Hope this helps-- ask away if you need more tips

JD, My best moving advice as a Professional Organizer is to find yourself a PO that specializes in Relocations.  An organized move is by far the best way to go, takes the stress out of a lot of the move and a PO at the other end will help you unpack and get settled much quicker than doing it all yourself.  Find a Christian organizer in either area on Faithful Organizers... www.faithfulorganizers.com
Many blessings on your move.

We just moved!  I cannot agree more with the people who said to LABEL!!!  By room, and by contents...especially that item that doesn't really go with that room but you had space so you looked around for an object that SIZE!!!  If you put your wife's hummingbird clock from the bathroom into a box labeled for the garage....please, put "hummingbird clock" on the box.  Makes wife happy and you know when the wife is happy....so is everyone else!!  Take care and we have added you to our prayer list!

You can find free moving boxes and wrapping paper on Craigslist...

Get rid of "stuff" as much as possible. If you don't love it or use it, it doesn't matter who gave it to you.

Simple and light...that's what I like.

Hey, there...Greetings from Kansas City! I always try to load the BIG stuff 1st, then pack around it; I've moved & helped people at church move along with family members as well.  I also try to put the really heavy stuff on the bottom, even when it comes to boxes; then I use lots of rope & do a 'cris-cross' so the load won't shift...I hope this helps & good luck...God Bless!

use bright colored duct tape on boxes with fragile items. It makes it obvious to know which boxes should be handled with care. Good luck. You brighten my mornings as I go to work.

My husband and I have moved 8 times. the first time we just put everything in boxes and did not label anything. Label everything and try to use the same size boxes. this helps with loading the truck. Downsize what ever you do not need donate. If you have things you know your not goning to use right away put them in a plastic storage bin and label that way you know you do not have to unpack it can just go in the attic. Have lots of fun. We started with just the two of us, by the last move we had our son, two dogs and some fish. It gets really interesting, I told my husband it we have to move again I'm hiring a company. LOL

Clean out as you pack..that way when you get there you wont have all the " junk"...also instead of using newspaper to wrap plates and glasses..use your dishtowels...one less thing to pack!!!  Thank you for all that you do...you are a blessing to us all...

JD, first thing I hate to hear that you and the family are having to move(being I am from N.C.& that it might just be the best state around) I hope you all have a safe trip and hope all works out for you.  You and the family will be in my thoughts and prayers , and you will be missed here in the South.

I am a Real Estate Professional (Realtor) and love hearing about people's moves.  I love to hear the good and the bad....so that I am able to help our cleints as they face their move...

Don't know if kids are in the picture, if they are...make sure they make a list of what goes into their "SPECIAL BOX" This box is the last thing that is packed, so that it is at the front of the truck and first to be UNLOADED..or even packed in the car with them.  
MOving is so stressful for the parents....it is just as stressful if not more for kids...new area, new friends, leaving their friends behind...and the comfort of Home is being left behind too.  

We love helping our clients...and thier children...on their move...to help make it an EXCITING time, not a STRESSFUL time...

(Let me know if you need a Realtor, we are part of a Relocation Team, and are able to help find Top Producing Companies and Agents in all the world...)

Have fun, laugh, and if you feel tears coming...just bust out in laughter!!!! (It helps)

JD, sorry you never got to come down to see us at Ocean Isle Beach. This is your big friend Dean. I have a crew of guys that would love to come help load you up for the move. Just let me know the day and time we will be there. Are you still going to be on KLove? Give me a call 843-283-7007. God Bless! Keep praying for Faith Building Missions.

If something sounds broken, open the box and check before you assume that somebody wasn't careful with the box that said "FRAGILE" because you may find yourself eating a huge plate of crow, served up hot & fresh because you may have just put a VBS tambourine made of paper plates and dry beans and jingle bells in the box with unwrapped picture frames. ;) I'm telling you this from experience.

When we moved, it was helpful to use different color stickers on each box to represent which room the box is for (ex. yellow sticker on the box means it goes in the kitchen) then you're not running all over your new home putting things where they belong and for example all your LIVING room boxes would be in the living room!

DO NOT use Excel Moving & Storage. I just moved from Greensboro to Charlotte and they did a terrible job. Don't know where you are moving from in NC but it was a nightmare for us. Prayers for your guys that things will go smoothly and as planned. My heart goes out to you. We are still finding things missing two months later.

Ok, so this might seem a little CDO (OCD in alphabetical order, of course)... but I not only label, but I color code every box.  Plus each box has an 3x5 index card listing its contents.  So a box for the kitchen would have a yellow label marked Kitchen, but it would also have a number and a corresponding index card listing the fact that it has all the silverware and kitchen knives, as well as the toaster and blender.  Those cards are kept in a recipe box and so then on moving day... I can put a color sign on each room for the movers or any helpers that show up to help (my husband is a pastor and so on each move people from the new church always show up to help).  And then after we've moved and are still living in 'cardboard city'... if I need something specific, I can go to the card box, find which box it is in much faster.

Good luck and God bless!!

Hey JD!

I know you've probably heard this from plenty of people already, but before you move, get rid of anything you have not used in a while! A yard sale is recommended; it'll help you earn some extra money for gas and other expenses along the way.

Also, you're driving the whole way, right? If that's right, make sure you have plenty to do especially if you have kids. If you can, pace yourself. Take more than just a few days to get there. Have fun along the way!

Are you still going to be on the Morning Show? I hope so! I love listening to you in the morning on the way to school.

Regardless, God Bless you, your family, and your travels!

I just moved back to the USA from Japan and can tell you the importance of deciding what's worth keeping, what's worth giving away and what's worth throwing away.  No matter where you're moving to and from there's no reason to keep everything and in my situation I had to fit three years worth of things into four suitcases for me, my husband, and my cat.  Take a good look at your favorite old shirt, those books you've already read, the CDs you never listen to.. do you really need them? Weigh the pros and cons of keeping sentimental items and having to tote them across country (or across the world) versus donating or pitching them.  In my case, I gave a lot of my American things to my students and had much more fun sharing than I ever could have had stuffing them into my carry on.

Ganbatte kudasai! Good luck with moving!

Find a church First...then buy a house!!! Blessings on your journey!

I was born into the military and married into it too. Needless to say, I've become an expert at moving. The best thing I ever learned was to have a Weird Stuff bag. It's a large ziplock for those little things you find after taking your furniture and stuff apart. There is always a bolt, wire, or something that you find after the packing is done and if you don't have a place to put it IT WILL GET LOST! Then when you get to the new house and start putting things together and end up short just one bolt, nut, or what-not all you have to do is check the Weird Stuff bag and there it is!

I feel for you.  My husband and I moved to NC from Arizona three years ago and are now getting ready to move back in the next few months.  Same thing-work.  I agree with downsizing.  Also, if you can take your time and enjoy the sights and stops along the way.  See something you haven't seen before you get back to the daily grind.  Enjoy the diversity of the countryside that God has created for us.  My prayers go with you.

Do each room separately and label each box and what is in it.  When my husband and I moved, I used all the plastic bags that all the stores have now to pack all my dishes, glasses and all my breakable things.  When I unpacked everything, I recycled the bags.  They work much better than using newspapers.  

My prayer is for God's protection as you all travel and that he continue to bless your life and home.  

God Bless,
Bernice Hughes

Key Items should go in an "unpack first" box and that box should go with you, not your load of stuff.  Make sure you put it somewhere that the movers (if your using a company) won't accidentally pack it.

Tape/pack a set of sheets, pillows, and blanket to your mattress so you won't have to dig through 100 boxes to find them when it's time to go to sleep.

Take pictures- take a picture of electronics before you take them apart or unplug stuff so you can easily remember how to it hooked up.  Putting screws in bags and taping them to the items you took apart, tape remote controls and cords to the items they belong too.

Take pictures of your rooms before moving so you can see how you decorated in your old house and maybe want to reset in your new house.

Now is a great time to donate stuff you haven't used in the last year or two to goodwill... purge the stuff you accumulated but don't use.

Buy a 3 subject notebook to keep track of all the moving details.  Use one section for the "new place," one section for the "old place," and one section for lists.  Include new & former addresses, to-do lists, realtor names, etc.  Write down every detail:  the date you closed an account, who you spoke with, anything.  With so many details to keep up with during a move, there's no way to keep up with everything.  Plus, you'll have a reference when something needs followed up on.

Good luck with your move.

I agree with the ones who have said, if you havent used an item in over a year AND it has NO sentimental value, give it away!  I've moved several times in the last few years and can tell you that there are people in your life who would LOVE to have something of yours to remember you by and cherish as a part of the memories you shared!  Prayers go with you!  You are a blessing on this station!

It is best to organize before you pack. Get rid of things you can do without. Also while you are packing, pack like items in the box. Try not to mix match the boxes, this will help you while you unpack. I know just went through it. Have a good day and hope your move goes great. God bless.

The key to moving is organization!  I friend of mine passed along this tip to me and it saved me from moving a lot of boxes up and downstairs and room to room AFTER the movers left.

Mark each box with different color duct tape according to the room you will be moving it into.
Example:  Red might be for the kitchen, yellow family room, green master bedroom, blue-little boys room, pink-little girls room, etc.

You will need to make a big board with all the different rooms listed with a piece of color duct tape that corresponds to that room.  Also put a little piece of the duct tape on the actual room or so the movers know where the boxes belong.

It takes a little bit of planning up front, but it it well worth it.

It also helps if your movers don't speak English   

Recommend I-40 instead of I-10.  I-10 has 800+ milest through the most barren parts of Texas - no radio signals for much of it.

My best moving tip is making sure you mark your boxes especially with the key items which are in there.  For instance, I was packing up my late friend's home and I marked the different items which were special to her and the family such as her favorite blanket.  Also mark the boxes if they contain fragile items.

Put your hang up clothes in your bed sheets, fold the sheet over and tie the ends.  Makes it easy to carry and easy to put up at your new place.  Also, if you have things in boxes that you haven't looked through in the past five years - toss the box without looking into it.

1. Label all your boxes.
2. When moving into the house, place things in the room they belong in instead of piling everything up in one room.
3. SET UP A BED!!! At least you'll have a place to sleep.
4. Save boxes by packing in organizer containers if possible.
5. I heard the advice about packing with clothes--- BRILLIANT. We also used pillows, sheets and comforters to pack around big items such as furniture, televisions, and glass items. It saved us a ton on our truck rental and we were already taking that stuff anyway!
6. If you're moving furniture, pack things in the drawers and move each drawer individually into the house. Less unpacking for you later!
7. Make it into a game! My husband and I would try to compete to see who could clear out a box faster and get everything into the right place. We got the idea from helping my aunt & uncle move--- they had my brother and I compete when helping them unpack!
8. TAPE & MARKERS!!!
9. Pack the essentials at the BACK of the moving truck so it is the first thing unloaded. Who wants to have to dig through everything to find soap after unpacking all day?

BEST WISHES!

Get every box the same (not counting wardrobe boxes). In stead of trying to get boxes where ever you can find them, start early and get every box the same size and shape.  That way when stacking your boxes on the truck everything is the same and you don't have to mix and match to get things in.  I found that cardboard milk boxes from the grocery store worked in our case. When I found that they were a good size and worked, I talked to the store manager about saving the milk boxes for me and would go by and get them until I had all I needed. Then Label, label, label.

Hi JD,

We are a military family and we move every 3-5 years. What I have found is that even though our move is paid for and someone comes to pack and unpack our stuff, you need to downsize - if you haven't used something in the past year, chances are you won't use it again. I get my girls to donate some of their toys and clothes and I do the same. The garage sales are great to have but donating is also a great thing.

Have fun in your new location! We always see moving as an adventure and a chance to meet new friends but always keep the ones you already have.

God bless you and thank you to K-Love for making my work day that much better!
Maria

Having moved Coast to Coast 5 times in the last 20 years - most recently 2 months ago - I was very appreciative of the comments already posted - great ideas but no one actually talked about the physical moving - the actual getting you and your family coast to coast!  I have moved with infants, elementary age kids and most recently teenagers and my word of advise is to plan some fun things across the way...it is an amazing country and you see God's hand in the landscape and in the people you meet.  Take the opportunity to expose your family to new and a different things - I am sure your KLOVE family across the country would be able to suggest for you highlights of what to do and see.  Our favorite this trip was Arches National Park!  

Wish you the best and hope this does not mean we will miss you in the mornings - you have been a constant in my moves - coast to coast -

Safe travels!  Enjoy the journey!

JD, if you are using a moving service of any type that will have access to your valuables (jewelry), be sure to pack them yourself and take them with you. We moved back in 2003 and we had a company come in and pack up "all" of our stuff.  During this busy time we didn't even think about jewelry, or little valuables like jewelry. As a result, my wife's engagement ring came up missing through it all and we never got it back. As a young man I worked hard to afford it and it hurt her to lose it. Because we were blessed with 3 amazing girls to raise, I was not able to afford to replace the ring with one of equal monetary value. We forgive the young man that packed up our bedroom that day and hope that the God has moved in his life and changed his heart. This past Mothers Day, after losing the ring 8 1/2 years ago, I was finally able to afford a new ring for my wife that she cherishes deeply as a symbol of my commitment to her.

Stephanie Raker: That's an awesome idea. My family does something similar. Since we usually just recycle the boxes anyways, we just write that stuff on the box though. We write what room it goes to and what all is in the box. Saves you from quite a bit of stress later...

I was a single mom with 3 very young kiddos.  When I moved out of state, I made the trip an adventure.  I plotted out some spots of interest and took the extra time to make the move fun for everyone.  We picniced and ran through fields chasing grasshoppers.  We played car games and sang.  My children are grown with children of their own, but they still fondly remember 'our move'.

JD. It's all in the loading and wraping/padding of your stuff you can get a damage free move using these container type move service,providing you get enough heavy duty moving pads to completly cover your fragile and finely finished type furniture,its a sfe bet thatany thing that can be scratched will get rubbed the finish off of it in a move east to west coast unless they are completly cover and the pads secured to the pc with lg.rubber bands or wraped with packing tape,belive me pads will not stay on stuff all the way across the country(you don't want a big ugly rub or chip on grandma's antique china hutch) 1st Question to you is do you want a completly damage free move??? I'm not trying to knock ABF OR the other container type movers,keep in mind, these trucks are not really moving vans, they don't have mark resistant wood floors and heavy duty padding depending on your budget,and whether you have expensive/fragile/antique's I advise hiring professional movers to do your move during the off peak season you can get up to 50+%discount on your move,no matter what they tell you if your stuff gets damaged you'll never get them to pay to fix or replace it as professional moving co.will,best case they might if your lucky get a small settlement,and thats only if you can prove driver error, buy getting several estimate's,Now all that said if you want acompletly damage free move doing it yourself then you can do the same thingI do as a driver tjis time of the year all the mover are trying to fine work for they,re best loaders and helpers you call either bigger moving co's in a 50/100 mile radius(they'll be glad to drive to your house for the work,mention you be glad to tip them  extra for gas) if needed, depending on where you live ask to speak directly to dispatch.you tell him that you want to hire a couple really good loaders that you can pay cash directly to them, to wrap & load your truck for you( you could mention that your a nation wide dj on the radio you'll get the really best loaders for sure! these men will load your truck just like the stuff belongs to them you can then relax save your back!!! and a lot of headache/ a good loader they work by the job not the Hour a 3 bdrm. home+2car garage full $150/$200 for the loader,& $100/$150 for the 1-2 helpers depending on your home long,walkway,2story/basement/2 men will load any size house as long as you don't care how long it takes& your willing to compensate them for trying to work them to death,Good movers don't sit down and take breaks every 15mins they work till the jobs done!! + you'll get the best move of your life!! PS,don't forget to but them a good lunch&dinner if need be (not pizza these are real men not teenagers!)Remember your paying for performance the better they work the better you should pay them,don't be afraid to tell them that B4 they start that after you agree on a price/after they walk thru the house an see how big a job they have to do,you only have to agree with the Loader on how much to pay,as always with any service tips are greatly appreciated!!! I'll pray that you have a great&safe move fell free to e-mail me I'll give you my Ph# I'd love to tell you My testimony how GOD saved me after I turn my back on him for 25yrs, hopr this will be a blessing to you>

Good Morning, I work at State Farm and yes, I have to tell you about our new app.  It is available for the IPad. I don't have one but I have seen how awesome this app is.  Check the link out.  It allows you to label the boxes, create a bar code to scan them to see what is in them without opening them.  It is something I wish I had for my wife's business she has. We have to go to storage and rip things apart trying to figure out what is in them.  It won't help you physically pack but will help pack smarter.  Let me know if you like it. Take care.

http://www.statefarm.com/mobile/ipad/index.asp Sorry here you go.

Hey JD - play lots of Tetris!  I am retired Air Force and have moved all over this planet, not only active duty but my Father is also retired Air Force,  I have heard so many people comment on selling off everything, if you choose to not do so when you pack up, remember to roll your clothing up in sort of tubes so to speak,  you can pack a lot of stuff into tiny spaces, that comes from deploying as much as I did.  Good luck on your move,  Love hearing you on the station out here in God's Country (WYOMING)  Blessing to you and your family. Just another added note, Thanks to you and your staff at KLOVE.  I have had a pretty rough go at it for the last 2 yrs,  went through a divorce and many other things that have complicated my life, but due to the prayers of my church and your staff at KLOVE, my life is many many times better now, and I know that there were only one set of footprints in the sand,  GOD was carring my the whole time.  Keep us all posted on the move.  Blessings to You!  Your friend in Cheyenne WYOMING - JOHN COFFEY

My best tip for moving - if you already know where you are going while you are packing your "stuff", not only label the box with the room info, but make up floor plans for the new place, room by room.  Tape a copy of each room's plan to the door, wall or whatever when you get there.  These plans can show where to put boxes designated for each room (which corner, closet, etc) as well as have furniture placement drawn in too.  This will help with the hundreds of "where should I put this" questions you will get from people helping, and maybe give you a few minutes to hide from the chaos.

Good luck with the move, and blessings to you and your family.

Are you heading to Indy?
I thought I heard a teaser on HANK-FM..

Regardless of where you're heading - prayers and blessing go with you.

Do what my mom always tells me to do if you have clothes left over put them in boxes. But don't forget to label everything.

remember this verse 1st Corinthians 13:13

I move about every 8 years cross-country and have lived on all edges of the country. In one year, I moved 6 times, so I'm a real expert at it. (I even single-handedly packed up an entire 3 bedroom home in less than a week!) The trick is organization!

1) First pack up those things you don't use on a daily basis, starting with wall hangings, pictures, etc.

2) Buy proper boxes for your items, which can be purchased at Uhaul or other such stores, particulary for mirrors, pictures, appliances, etc. It may be cheaper to get boxes from the grocery stores, but irregular size and used boxes also increase the risk of damaging your items when these boxes collapse and shift in transit.

3)Pack boxes completely full, using soft items, newspaper, etc. to fill the gaps. If the box isn't full enough, it will collapse under pressure when stacked. Also, don't overfill boxes to where they bulge.

4) Besides marking the room that the box should go to, mark a number on all three corners of the upper side of the box, ex. #1 for box 1. On a separate piece of paper, list #1 and all the items that are in that box. This way, if you need to go looking for something, you won't have to open every box to find it; just look at your list. This also helps if you have to store your items for a while. (In my storage unit, I have the boxes stacked with the number of the boxes facing out, so when I need to pull something from storage, I can find the box quickly.)Also, keep your boxes in case you have to move again; it will be quicker to pack since you'll know what already goes in which box.

5) Valuable items, which are not practicle to keep in your possession at all times (due to weight or size), should be placed in an ordinary box and marked with something like "text books" to help deter theft. These boxes should be first on and last off the truck. (Who would want to wade through an entire truck just to steal text books?)

6)Use color dots to mark extra heavy boxes (red) and extra light boxes (yellow). It will not only give one fair warning to prevent wrenching your back, but will so aid in loading the truck. At a quick glance you'll know not to stack something on top of a yellow dot box that may contain a lamp shade.

7) Use small boxes for heavy items, such as books. It will prevent one from wearing out the body too quickly while loading. It may take an extra trip to the truck, but you won't be as sore by the end of the day.

8)Perishable items should be clearly marked and should be loaded last on, first off.

9)I don't know if you have pets, but if you need tips for them, let me know. I moved fish and cats from one end of the country to the other and all came out just fine.

That's all I can think of for now. I also have tips for partial and/or temporary moves, but I don't know if you need those, but let me know if you do. Like I said, I've done it all.

Lesson learned...my husband and I have moved several times and learned in one of those moves, never to let the "Movers" unpack for you.  They simply took everything out of the box where it was and put it on the floor.  Then, took the box away.  It took us weeks of walking around can goods before we were able to see our kitchen floor, yikes, that was indeed a lesson learned.  Just leave it in the box, I'll get to it soon.  LOL

I dislike moving so much that my advice is DON'T DO IT!

I buy all sorts of colors of duct tape from Home Depot or Hobby Lobby. I assign a room a color and after taping up the box to be secure, I slap a large piece of color duct tape over the entire top of the box that corresponds to the room. When I get to the location, I put a piece of tape on the corresponding door. That way, when unloading, the box at least gets to the correct room! Example - Blue painters tape goes to the kitchen, Red duct tape is master bedroom, etc.

I could never in my life think of any thing to add to this but I just want to tell you that I want you to stay on the air.  I don't want to let you go.  You are so good.  I have a funny story to share, but I don't know where to put it on the web here

Make sure the boxes to set up the bathroom and a reasonable amount of kitchen stuff are easily accessible---then set those rooms up first.  Once those rooms are good to go, seems like the pressure is off because you can function a little!

I've moved quite a bit in my life and the best advice I can give you is to pack a box specifically for the first 24 hours upon arrival.  Essential items should include bedding, towels and shower necessities, flashlights/lamps with bulbs/batteries, food that is "just add water", drinks, disposable eating utensils, pajamas and a change of clothes, and a pair of scissors handy to open boxes.  There's nothing worse than getting to your new house and finding out that you have to dig through boxes in the dark just so you can relax.

JD:  The only advice I can give that you have not gotten yet is MAKE SURE YOU HAVE A LIST OF ALL THE K-LOVE STATIONS along your trip.  I put this in all capital letters to enphisize how important the right music on a long trip can be.  Ten years ago I moved from ND to NY and had to listen to the same CD for two and a half days.  I have not listened to that cd since.  Dennis D.  Utica, NY

We have moved twice in the past 10 months (once cross country and once 3 blocks away)and moving will be a regular aspect of our lives in the the near future.  Before our first move, a good friend of mine advised to pack into 18-gallon Rubbermaid bins.  They hold up better than boxes, cost less than those specialty boxes, they are re-usable, they stack great in the moving truck and then nestle inside each other for easing storage when they are unpacked.  The lids latch so you don't need mass amounts of packing tape to hold the thing together. They have built in handles for easy carrying.  They repel water (in the event you are loading/unloading in the rain/snow/sleet).  You can sell them if you don't need them anymore. They come in multiple colors so you can buy a different color for each room/person.  I put a clear adhesive business card pocket on the outside of each bin to label what is inside.  That way, I can easily switch out the label if I change what is inside.  And they can double as end tables, dining spots, and even chairs until you can get furniture reassembled/organized and the bins unpacked and stored away!  

Blessings for a safe and healthy move!  

If you are planning to bring house plants into California, you will need to have the local federal government office (Department of Interior, I believe) send someone to your house to have your plants inspected and obtain the documentation allowing you to bring them into California. Otherwise, the agents at the California border will make you throw them all in the trash. We did this when moving from Texas. It only cost us a cup of coffee for the Federal rep. With the documentation in hand, the agent at the border thanked us and sent us through with our plants.

I have discovered an economical source for renting books on tapes or CDs: Cracker Barrel restaurants.You buy a tape or CD at any branch for the full price (about $20), and when you are done, you return it to ANY Cracker Barrel restaurant. Hold on to your receipt. They will refund your purchase price minus a weekly fee of about $3. It great for a long road trip. Cracker Barrels are usually located along the Interstates, which makes it very convenient to return or pop in to get a new 'book'.

Sorry if this is a repeat. Haven't read all the comments.

1. Since we rewash all our clothes after moving to remove that dusty smell they get from being in boxes we've begun just packing those not immediately needed in garbage bags. Quick and easy to stuff them in and the bags can then be reused to dispose of the garbage collected during unpacking.

2(and the more important one). Pack a roll of toilet paper in your car. Worse thing in the world to arrive at the new place and have a quick need and not be able to get at some because its packed in the truck. As is, we always leave a roll at the place we vacate just in case.

20 years Military moves talking.... (1) If you have movers, buy them pizza for lunch and keep drinks on hand to keep them happy.  If they are happy they will take care of your stuff.  (2) Keep your homeowner's insurance active until you arrive at destination.  If your vehicle gets broken into during the move, your personal belongings will not be covered under your auto insurance, but it is covered under your homeowner's insurance.

Take time to stop and enjoy the scenery along the way. Made the move in reverse 3 years ago from Fairfield, Ca to North Carolina. We took 2 weeks and saw many of the sites that could be the once in a life time opportunity to see. Worked out great. Be sure to have the camera ready at all times as there are many odd sites to see also. Have a safe and enjoyable trip.

When you're downsizing, remember your local thrift store! As a thrift store manager, we appreciate folks who drop off their moving "extras."

Colored duct tape is my lifesaver: use it to color code boxes by family member/room. When a roommate and I had to move at the same time, we packed using 2 different colors. Having friends help was a cinch - we just told them to put the boxes with blue duct tape in one room and the purple duct tape in another.

MOVING???  Some tips from someone who has moved 13 times in all 41 years of her adulthood (I'm 62 now)! Instead of naming the boxes, Number them and keep a notebook of all contents in the box.  Pack together things you will need right away when you arrive.  Before U even pack, consider if an item really needs to travel across country with you: clothes that don't fit, health and beauty aids that are old or almost empty, toys no longer played with, things you haven't looked at in over a year, things you didn't even know you had, etc. and toss or give away.  Unless you're using a van line, pack your moving van first with biggest furniture pieces (behind the cab), then lighter pieces, appliances, then your boxes beginning with things you'll store for a while when you first arrive, then the boxes containing things you'll need right away.  It's easier to look in a notebook than to shuffle through boxes.  I finally got married at the age of 59, and my hubby and I live in a park model camper!  We also have a little shed.  We both had parting farewells to much unneeded stuff, but we are very comfortable living with less. May the Lord keep you and your family safe in your travel!  Blessings on your new home!

Whew!! I thought that moving from different houses in Greensboro, North Carolina was hard, but moving from North Carolina to California? We had a huge house for 3 people and two dogs. 2 stories with a full basement. We had 6 rooms and 3 full baths. It was wwwwwwwwwaaaaaaaaaaaaaayyyyyyyyyyyy to much. Now we have a 1 1/4 story house. Yes, 1 ¼ stories. On 1 ¼ of the house there is a bedroom over the garge. It is about the same size as the garage. One room and full bath upstairs and 3 rooms and 2 full baths downstairs. I miss our big house but it is soooooooo much quieter out here. We have lived here for about 1 ½ years, but we still have a lot of boxes in the garage and attic. BUT WE L-O-V-E IT HERE!!!!!!!!!!!! I hope that you enjoy your house.  I am going to try some of these. ;) :O :o :oops: :lol: :roll:

Hey JD: I am a local author here in Pittsburgh and I wrote the Slick Move Guide™. It is a consumer written, easy to read, informative and very detailed moving guide that can save a mover hundreds of dollars. It offers great packing advice, and will educate the mover on how to protect their household goods, choose a quality mover, and avoid those infamous mistakes and much more. It is light weight and with a spiral binding much like a workbook. The stress reducing timeline in the end of the book is one of the features and also provides blank lines for customizing your to do list. It is used by companies, home builders, real estate agents, schools and sports teams in America.  http://tinyurl.com/3f8qhz7

Hey JD, My wife Julie and I met you on the Klove cruise last February, it sure was good to meet you, Mike, Scott and Kelli. Well I have read all the packing suggestions and cannot add too much to that only to say to load the heavy things forward and do not leave any space void. DO not spare any blankets over furniture, make sure every surface is covered and tape them if necessary to insure they stay put. Make everything snug. NOW, as a truck driver for 40 years I suggest calling the company who you are renting the truck from and asking them what you can expect for fuel mileage, (diesel preferred) how many gallon tank it is, then calculate your fuel stops on a mapping program if possible, I am suggesting every 300 to 350 miles. If you go on line to Love's Truck Stops or T A travel centers, there are many and they are consistent across the country. you can also check on prices at all locations to be more exact on your fuel budget. I also suggest that if you have the choice of towing a trailer with your car on it verses someone driving, you will have an easier time in not getting separated. At every fuel stop are food and motels close by. I am not sure how many miles you plan to travel each day but with 300 to 350 miles per fuel stop you will be covering 600 to 700 miles per day which is a decent days work. If you need someone to help you with this, feel free to contact me, I will be glad to drive the truck or map it out or what ever.
haulnhyatt@yahoo.com. 509-307-2123.
I hope this helps you.
Take care brother, Doug Hyatt

I've moved quite a few times in my life. The best advise I can offer to anyone. It's a given that you clearly mark the boxes with the name of the room they belong. But a list of what is in the box should be taped to the top of the box. I know it seems to be an extra step but I promise you will be glad you took the time to do it. It will eliminate much frustration. Knowing what box has the silverware in it saves opening 20 other boxes marked "kitchen". And finding those Barbies to keep a daughter busy while you finish putting bunk beds together is so much easier if you know which box they are in. "Where are my Barbies? Where are my Barbies? WHERE ARE MY BARBIES??????!!"  Ahhhh. Good times. Good times. Also, Pack the truck in the order of the location of the rooms in your house. Example: if the first room you enter is your living room be sure that is the last stuff unloaded. It should be packed in the section farthest away from the truck door. This will keep you from tripping over the living room boxes and furniture while you are still unloading and moving mattresses for rooms in the back of the house.
My prayers are with you for safe passage.
God bless you,

Lift with your legs and not your back. Contract your abs when you lift this increases the stability of your low back which decreases the liklihood of injury. I am a Chiropractor. God bless.

Just a small tip: pack in chest of drawers then tape or strap the drawers shut or have the drawer opening towards the wall of the truck so the drawers won't open.
God's graces and protection with your move.

You have lots of good advice here...pick what works best for you...downsizing is great advice...list of KLOVE stations, too....organize packing by room...detailed list of stuff...put a backup list online in case the master list gets lost or even mail a copy to yourself, even better...welcome back to the West Coast...and remember to pray first, last and ALWAYS !!!

I moved quite a few times in my childhood and it was hard for me each time.  I know everyone is talking about the stuff you will take with you and how you will take it, but you should remember those involved within the move.  Your wife, you, kids.  Allow a time for all of you to sit together and talk about how each of you feel about the move.  Expectations, things you will leave behind, and come to a solution to help with anxiety and fear.  I know when I moved, I thought thta I wouldn't be able to make new friends.  Make sure the family understands where you are going and why.  It will help smooth things out within the family.

Make sure you pack the coffeemaker LAST - and pack all the stuff you need in that box ... sugar, creamer, mugs, spoons, COFFEE - then put it somewhere convenient so you'll have immediate access to it when you unpack
And every time we move, we pick spots along the way that have hotels with an indoor pool - I'm sure Layla would enjoy that!

p.s. have a GREAT trip!!

I MOVED FROM FLORIDA TO TN. I FIGURED OUT THAT SINCE U HAVE TO PACK TOWELS/WASHCLOTHES ANYWAY, WHY NOT USE THEM TO WRAP YOUR BREAKABLE ITEMS IN. IT SAVES MONEY BY EXCLUDING THE COST OF BUBBLE WRAP. (JUST REMEMBER TO KEEP A FEW CLEAN ONES IN CLOSE REACH, FOR SHOWERS THAT NIGHT) AND ALSO, INSTEAD OF TAKING YOUR CLOTHES OFF HANGERS, FOLDING THEM UP, PUTTING THEM IN BOXES, AND THEN HAVE TO UNPACK, AN REHANG (if they aren't too wrinkled) JUST LEAVE THEM ON THE HANGERS AND STACK THEM IN A FLAT AREA ON TOP OF EACH OTHER.  IT MAKES IT A WHOLE LOT EASIER ON YOU AND SAVES LOTS OF TIME  I HOPE THESE TIPS HELP YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. IM PRAYING FOR A SAFE AND STRESS-FREE TRANSITION, FOR YOU AND YOUR FAMILY.

I've moved several times.  For my first move - I labeled the boxes by room (kitchen - master bedroom - bathroom - etc.)  For my second move - I added a priority step.  #1 means I need the items in this box NOW to get this room set up.  #2 means I will need these items soon - but not immediately.  #3 means - if I never get around to unpacking you within the first year - a yard sale may be in your future.

This process has helped relieve a lot of stress in my moving process.  I didn't feel like I had to make quick decisions about what I needed to throw out before the move, and it made the unpacking process easier.

At the move-in side of the process - I go through the house or apartment before things start going in and label each room to match the boxes. That way whoever is carrying in my stuff knows exactly where to put it.

OK - YES - I have OCD issues!

When we move I buy colored paper to label boxes.  Example:  I use yellow for kitchen.  Write kitchen on all the yellow pieces of paper and tape them to the top of the kitchen boxes and then at the new place, place a yellow piece of paper with the word kitchen on it on the door leading to the kitchen.  If you have multiple levels, do a chart at the door pointing which colors go up to this level and these colors go to this level.  Really helps because then people aren't asking where a box goes they just look for the color on the door to that corresponding room.

Advice - Shop around for moving trucks/companies the prices are very different.
I'm moving form upstate NY to southeren CA in 3 weeks so you'll have company in the cost to cost move!  God bless us both with safe travels.

Don't forget to mention to your accountant that you are moving. You may be eligible to some tax deductions on your tax return. Keep all your receipts! Tax planning is a good idea, we're called to be good stewards.

God bless!

Moved last year after 28 years in the same house. I got LOTS of help, we had a yard sale and we rented a dumpster! I made a point to introduce myself ASAP to my new neighbors: that made the new place feel like I belonged! When your family/helpers ask where something belongs and you don't know, don't say, "Just put it in the office." It took a long time to get my office back! Welcome back to CA!

I have something random that I do more for traveling, but might work for moving too. When it comes to jewelry, particularly necklaces or anything with chains, string the chain through straws. That was suggested to me for my honeymoon, and it worked beautifully. There is next to no risk of chains tangling together and it protects the chains themselves. While it does waste a few straws, I deemed my necklaces a little more important. Hope your move goes well. Always remember to breathe, the people are more important than the stuff.

During our first move, my mom told me to be sure and set up the bed first, and get the sheets/blankets on right away.  Then, when we were exhausted at the end of the day from unpacking or moving in, we could at least crawl into a made bed and get a good night rest. Simple, and it sure has been nice to be able to get a good's night rest amidst the mess of moving in.

Having been a military dependant most of my life and then active, myself for many years;  I have a great deal of experience in moving. If any of your family members have any medical issues, you should take any documentation with you that would be helpful. Activities for children, such as lap games, children's atlas's and maps (so they can follow along on the trip themselves; I found some at Toy`R`Us I believe) This makes a great memory for them, Even if you have to help them with it!
Packiing tips: Pack what boxes that you can as lightly for your safety! Pack each room, labels, seperately, for easier placement in new home.

When I moved the first time across the U.S., by myself, I took the southern routes in the near winter months, because I knew there was snow the northern routes! I didn't hit snow until Texas. I realize that you are moving in the opposite direction, but I still recommend the southern routes. That first move was from Tacoma, WA to Tampa, FL, in late Nov.
Will we still hear you on K-Love from CA? I sure hope so! Will you, please let us know the times you will be traveling? I am an Intercessory Prayer Warrior for my Congregation! Though, I pray for any prayer needs! Quite often, for needs I hear on K-Love! I, for sure want to pray for your traveling, and moving needs for you and your family!
Take care, plan well, and e-mail me for prayer needs!
Sister Liz

1)My roommate and I love listening to your show on the way to work. What a wonderful blessing!
2)Speaking of work, we work at U-Pack. It's a great company that has an amazing concept for moving. Check us out at upack.com. Or just call 877-607-0494; ask for Donna or Brittany. We'd love to help you with your move!! God bless.

Instead of keeping a spreadsheet that lists everything that went into a box just take pictures. I did this when I packed up my mom's house. I developed the pictures (you wouldn't have to), taped them to paper, and put them in a notebook with the corresponding box number. If you don't end up unpacking every box you will still know where things are!

Okay, so I work at U-Pack and if you're going in to California then U-Pack is definitely the best!  No one can beat U-Pack's cross-country prices and it's by far the least stressful way to handle a move.  I promise you'll love it! They even let me take a leave of absence to go on a missions trip to Africa - what a great company, huh?

I just moved this past month, biggest tip... BUG BOMB the new place. I now have fleas and if I had just thought of this first I could have avoided the little bites on my ankles. Just cause I don't have bug issues doesnt mean the people before me and their 4 legged friend didn't.

I moved many times compliments of the military. When the time comes to unpack, set up your bed first, with fresh clean sheets. This way when your are ready to go to sleep after a long day of unpacking, your clean comfy bed is ready for a good nights sleep. Enjoy the trip.

Just take care of your feet and don't break one like I did last Saturday.  I'm blessed that it was my left foot so i can still drive to work.

You've had reccommendations to lable boxes with fragile or what room to put them in or if they are seasonal but here is an easy tip of how to lable the boxes:  Colored packing tape!  Instead of using plain, clear tape, get different colored packing tape and use a different color for different meanings. Since you have to tape the boxes anyway, you now don't have to add additional lables.

I LOVE WAKING UP TO YOUR SHOW IN THE MORNING!!! Does this move mean a new morning show host(s)?

As a former Army wife, I managed to move 10 times in 16 years and have learned a few things I'd like to pass on to you.
1) Do as MUCH prep as possible - get a PO Box at your destination so your mail will follow you.
2) Hold yard/garage sale before the movers come to get rid of as much "excess" as possible; my rule is, it if hasn't been used in "x" time (my x = 1 year), GET RID OF IT!
3) If you don't have housing on the other end, arrange for your stuff to go to storage until you find something you really like, otherwise, you'll end up in a place you hate!
4) If you are doing a self-move, consider one of the "pod" companies. They bring a pod to your house, you load your stuff the way you want, they transport and store it on the other end until you are ready for pod delivery.
5) HAVE FUN! Moving can be stressful, but we always managed to do something in each place we stopped during our cross country treks. Check out some of the hidden treasures across America and remember that every new adventure opens new doors, so be ready, and enjoy the ride!

We LOVE listening to you in the morning.  What a blessing for my teen sons to have that on while they're getting ready for school.  THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU! God bless you!!

I used to move every 12-18 months, so I got a lot of things down for moving. Some of my suggestions include:

1- Use kitchen or lawn & leaf bags, & pop a small hole in the center of the bag's bottom. Gather a bunch of clothes from the closet - still on the hangars & still hanging up. When you have the approximate width of the bag, remove those hangers from the bar, slide the bag with the opening facing down over the clothes and wiggle the hanger hooks through the small hole at the bottom. Hang the bundle back on the rod and tie the bottom closed like you would a garbage bag. Leave them hanging in the closet out of the way until you are ready to throw them in the truck. Label the bag which room it goes to. When you unload, hang them immediately in that room's closet. You can remove the bag when you have time.

2 - Use smaller plastic bags (such as grocery bags) to gather items that belong together in the same drawer. This can be anything from the junk drawer in the kitchen, the drawer that seems to accumulate a bunch of pens that don't write, or the sock drawer. Label the bag on the outside so you know where it goes. You can leave the bags in furniture drawers until the day you move, just have them tied closed when ready. If you strategically load the truck and want to make the most of space, the bags can travel inside the drawers too; just remove drawers to carry the furniture to the trucks and tuck them back in. Why put them in bags at all? Murphy's law: if it's not packed, it will somehow end up strewn across the lawn or driveway during the  move. Tied bags can be easily popped back in.

3-Know what you will need to have access to during the move / cross-country drive AND the first three days you are in your new home. Have those items packed separately, preferably with you and not on the moving van - just in case.

4 - Have extension cords handy right away. You would be amazed how few people know where all the outlets are when they first move in. Until you finalize where all the furnishings will go, having a little extra reach will help access power / electricity when needed.

5 - Google where some inexpensive restaurants or fast food establishments are in the area of the new home. The first few days you may not have the kitchen fully unpacked and stepping out the door will help give you a break from the unpacking and a feel for the new neighborhood.

6 - Know where the local hospital, walk-in clinic / ER, vet (if applicable), and pharmacy is for your new home AHEAD of TIME. I pray nothing happens where you or your family need it, but in case something happens in the first few weeks, you will not need to loose time finding it. Write it down, tuck it in the vehicle visor (or similar safe place) plus a magnet. When you first walk into the new home, stick it right on the fridge.

7 - Packing is also a process of sorting stuff. If you haven't used it in a year or two, do you really need it? Good Will, Salvation Army, Big Brothers/Big Sisters and others take stuff, including furniture. Or you could hold a yard sale to raise some funds for the move.

Best of luck in the move and in your new home.

Hey J.D.

Here's a great tip ...

Pack an "Unpack 1st Tote" with the 1st Day/Night Essentials!

Sheets to make beds
Towels for the shower the next morning
Canned soups and crackers
Box of Cereal for the next morning
Paper Plates/Bowls/Plastic forks and spoons
Napkins
1 Roll of Paper Towels
Antibacterial Wipes to Clean
2 Rolls of Toilet Paper
Your Coffee Maker with a baggie of Coffee and a couple of filters!!!!!

You'll just need to stop at a store for milk!

This tote takes the pressure off of finding what you need for the first 24 hours!

Safe travels,

Gayleen from Yakima, Washington ;o)

JD:  I have a great packing strategy for your wife.  (not sure she can pull it off with short notice...) I highly recommend being 8 1/2 months pregnant when you move.  That way she can pack a box and then say, "Honey, I'm done with this one.  Will you move it out of the way?"  It worked fabulously for me 10 years ago when we moved 9 days before our first child was born.    Good luck with your move and new home.

sell EVERYTHING and start from scratch!

May God bless your family and new home!

Use extra sheets, towels, wash clothes for wrapping rather buying expensive wrapping.

J.D., make a box with paper plates, cups, coffee cups, forks-spoons-knives, one sharp knife, garbage bags, paper towels and wet-wipes...no need to worry with dirty dishes as soon as you arrive!  If you're a coffee drinker, be sure you have your pot and all its needs (filters, coffee, your favorite mugs, sugar, creamer,etc.).  Take this box with you in your car (or whichever vehicle will arrive at the house first).  God bless you all and keep you safe!!

I realize everyone is giving you ways to physically move but have you considered the emotional side of a move. Struggling with a move or upcoming move is very common. You are not alone. Help is here with Just Moved Ministry. I have written a book, After the Boxes Are Unpacked, Moving On After Moving In. We don't just help once and let you go. Instead, we provide continued support and encouragement no matter what season of life you are in.


Our web site www.JustMoved.org offers resources to cope with the challenges, emotions, and losses you may be experiencing.  We may also be able to connect you with a church or someone in your new area who understands how difficult a move can be.


Through personal contact, Moving On After Moving In groups, free online resources, books, videos, seminars, conferences and prayer support, the staff and volunteers of Just Moved strive to equip and encourage women/families just like you. Our outreach continues to be a beacon of light and hope to those who relocate around the world. Through our ministry, God's transforming love and the impact of His word are reaching thousands of people in churches, neighborhoods, military installations, seminaries, and corporations throughout the world.

As you browse our web site www.JustMoved.org, be sure to check out my Heart Talk and devotional, moving tips, moving stories by other movers like you, and other helpful resources. May your heart be encouraged! Susan Miller
  

The BEST moving/packing advice I received:  "Pack in suitcases everything you will need for two weeks.  Then, box everything else.  While boxing, number the boxes and keep a list of each item in each box."  Keeping a list may seem to slow you down a little, but it is well worth it when you arrive at your destination!  

JD  -   Been hearing that you are moving, but where are you going?  I have really enjoyed listening in the mornings with you.  Praying that God will continue to bless you.  

Jd we haven't moved cross country before but the best moving tip I have is contact your local day labor and hire two people to load and unload your truck.  The best 15 dollars an hour I ever spent. Usually 4 hour required. They will even set up your furniture just tell them were u want it.  

I never purchased wardrobe boxes. I took the items on hangers and put them in large garbage bags, made a hole on top for  the hook part of the hanger and tied the bottom. When I got to my new place I'd put it on the rack with the plastic on and then rip it off. All my hanging clothes were placed away in minutes.

Once everything is in boxes and before you start putting things in the truck/uhaul,  play tetris.  it should give you an idea of how everything should fit together to work, if your an abstract thinker.  Heavy stuff on the bottom, lighter stuff on the top and breakable items packed securely where they my be.

My husband is in the military, so needless to say, we move A LOT!  We are actually about to make yet another move to South Korea.  My best advice, write the room the box belongs to and everything in the box on the side and on top of the box so you know exactly where it goes and what is in it. It will save you a whole lot of time unpacking if you take the little extra while packing.  Money saving tips, go to your local grocery store and ask for boxes. They will usually give them to you for free and if you get them from the produce section, sometimes you get those nice little cardboard pieces that hold the apples or oranges in place which make nice padding for delicates.

Before I move I look at my spouse sincerely in the eyes and tell them I am truly sorry if I yell at you today or get short or roll my eyes.It's not your fault honey and I'm telling you ahead of time so you don't take it personal but I will be tired, stressed and aggravated and I'm apologizing for my behavior. I'm sorry (I forgive you to for not doing as much work as me)lol.
Works every time

JD, This past Wednesday morning I was listening to KLOVE as I drove to work.  I was blessed to have heard a listener who called in and asked to pray for you.  She spoke so beautifully, so humble and so sincerely as she prayed for you and your family.  I was very moved by it.  Then it hit me... that God has just used this women to lead the KLOVE listeners in prayer for you.  He just poured out his love to you in such a blessed way. There is no way to know how many prayers went up for you that morning. Thousands?    I like many of the listeners ( I am sure)  prayed right along with her.I was so overwhelmed by this that I was nearly in tears. I believe he has great things in store for you and your minstry.
God Bless you and your family and your KLOVE family.

JD,

I listen to you when i drive to work each morning.  I too have done the multiple move thing.  I worked as a professional mover before becoming an RN.

Suggestions: the best boxes for moving are free and from the liquor store. Use a diesel powered truck...better fuel costs. load the trucks boxes first walled in with mattresses, dressers, couches, over stuffed chairs. fill in spaces with smaller items. light objects can be store on top of what is there. appliances last then things like bed rails place on last at the end of the truck that way you good furniture is not damaged or scratched.

May God bless your journey with good weather and great mileage. May the hand of God be on you and your family during this trip and transition. i pray that God shows you how this move will be a blessing to you, your family and to those who you will be moving in next to.

BLESSINGS TO YOU!!!

Sell all your stuff on Craigslist in Raleigh and keep only the stuff you would grab if you had 5 minutes to evacuate. Then when you get to California and you've saved all that money on moving expenses and all the money you made on all those useless material possessions that just drag you down re-evaluate what you "need" in your new place because none of the old stuff ever fits anyway. Go to Craigslist Sacramento and magically what you just sold will be there (maybe in a different color etc) It's just stuff, it doesn't matter and when you live simply you have more time to spend with the Lord )

My husband and I own a moving company and we almost always have used moving boxes that we sell at a discount.  I would recommend that you contact a local moving company if you are in need of boxes to see if they have used ones.  We always recommend to our customers that they put the things they want to keep with them in a bathroom or closet, away from the other items to be loaded onto the truck.  If you are moving a refrigerator or freezer, take coffee from the can, wrap the coffee in a paper towel and rubber band it closed.  Set one in the fridge and one in the freezer.  This will help keep them smelling fresh and not get musty.  Good luck on the move!  May God be with you as you travel and keep His angels around about you and your family!  

God bless you and your family as you move back to California JD.  We moved from NY to Wisconsin recently and after researching our options and praying for guidance, we settled on PODS (Portable On Demand Storage). They dropped off the first of three PODS on our driveway when we were ready--placing the storage unit according to our wishes. We packed the unit ourselves, and we could take as much time as we needed, then we placed our own lock on the unit an secured it. We called PODS to schedule the pick up for storage and transportation. Another POD was dropped off. We also downsized, by giving away or disposing of unnecesary bulky items. Once all 3 PODS were picked up, PODS transported all three units together to minimize transportation costs to our new city. We completed the sale of our home, moved across country in our own vehicles, shopped for a new home, purchased a new home, then called PODS to schedule delivery to our new residence--2.5 months after we packed the units. PODS charges a reasonable rental fee until you're ready to have the units delivered. We unpacked the units at our own pace and called for the final pickup. If we had rented a truck or paid a moving crew, we would have moved twice and it's often difficult to coordinate the timing of a move. Professional moving crews are expensive. Renting a truck is costly too, once you pay for gasoline, hotels enroute and meals as well. If you don't have a new residence already waiting for you, you will handle household "stuff" twice!! You'll have to pay to rent a 2nd time and you will pack and unpack the truck at least one more time. You're getting some terrific advice from others too! Blessings to you sir!

You know when you pick up a night stand or somethinf with drawers in it and they come open? Well I got a six inch roll of srink wrap and wrapped around them to stop all that..

Purge! If you haven't used it in six months, then toss it..only exception are holiday items!  

Going to miss you, I started listening to K-Love years ago with Jon and Sherry, then Kelly and now you...each time I think there is no way I can love K-Love with out so-and-so, but each time I am surprised how I come to love each and every one of you.. God is in control, he knows exactly who to put where and when!  Although I will miss you, I am looking forward to getting to know who God has in mind and to see what I learn to have a more awsome relationship with him!

God's Blessings to you and your family!

One thing to remember when you move especially with kids.  Pack a 'Taking With Me Box'.  This Box depends on the age of the person.  It doesn't have to be a big box. For myself it is my favorite pillow, my blanket (because that's always a piece of home no matter on moving or otherwise), a notebook with a pen (to write because I love to), my bible, and a few other items.  You could even have a stuffed animal and maybe your favorite outfit.

Also, I would suggest a memory box for anyone who has been in an area for awhile and has some great memories.  Rocks, dried flowers, any little thing from the house, a picture, etc.

I would also do a friend exchange in the end.  Take a picture the the kids or yourself and your good friends together.  Have a last meal together and give them the photo and a gift and vise versa. Even though you have email, numbers, addresses, etc., you will also have that last memory.

All I can say JD is God Bless and God Speed on this journey ahead. Look at it as a cleansing process. Out with the old (but to charity) and in with the new my friend. I will definitely miss you on the morning show. There are many times when each morning I get into my car to drive to work that I am feeling down. You see my mother is dying from terminal cancer, and sometimes I can't wrap my head around why such a special and loving person MUST suffer, but after listening to your soothing and calm voice each morning, I arrive at work mostly refreshed and ready to accept what God has dealt me for the day. I wish you and your family nothing but God's peace and love and GOD SPEED to your new home. Eddie Hughes

If you're driving,switch to full synthetic oil.  Works much better on rough conditions.  
Use anti-bug wiper fluid.  By the time you're sure you need it, you're driving blind.
Keep a blanket in the car near you. Useful if you drive too long and need a short nap.
Watch a movie or read a good book before you go. It will give your brain something to do on the long, borring parts.
Take current pictures of your family in their current clothes.  God forbid  you should need them for the police. (( Yay camera phones ))
Have bottled water with in reach.  Dehydration can make you stupid and cranky.  Not good for driving.
If you loose power in the higher altitudes, don't worry about it. It's normal.  Just shift into a lower gear, move to the right hand lane, and put your four-ways on. When you get back to an altitude that your vehicle is used to, it will be fine.
Coffee is not sleep.  If you start seeing things in the shadows while you're driving, that's your brain shutting down.  Find a hotel and sleep.
Expect construction work.
Don't let your gas tank get below 1/4.  If something unfortold happens, you'll need that extra gas.

Sorry,but I've only done this drive solo.  I see alot of great advice on other comments.  God be with you.

Hi JD,
I grew up a military (Navy) kid, so we moved every 3+ years.

Buttoned Up has a kit you can buy (I think at Target) and on their website. Here's a YouTube video and link: www.youtube.com/buttonedupinc#p/a/f/0/TdsYKtT5II8

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Frankly, I didn't read all of the 148 previous comments, although I've heard many of them shared on air. My suggestion may be less practical - but may be worth considering. Cost of living in California is known to be high. Split the difference and move half-way across the country. Oklahoma is a great place to live! We don't have beaches, surf or ice castles, but we have much to offer in community and natural beauty.

JD, I've read every comment because I am moving as well.  Just in town so nothing like your move will be, but I don't think anyone has mentioned medication.  I take several prescription meds and I just wanted to remind you (and anyone else who is moving) to pack at least a week's supply in with your "With ME Bag".  That way important meds  won't get lost or separated from you.  Also a reminder that everyone should carry with them a list of their meds, with mg and dosages.  In case of emergency, responders need that information. Any medical conditions should be noted too, in case of loss of consciousness. Please be safe!  I won't be able to listen in very often because of my work hours, and I will miss you, but I will welcome the new morning hosts.  My thanks and prayers to you and your family....