Details make all the difference, especially if you’re keeping things in storage for a while. No matter how annoying or unnecessary it seems at the time, I always make sure to be highly detailed when labeling my moving boxes.

List everything inside, particularly items you know you’ll want to unpack ASAP. This makes it easier when it comes time to unpack — you’ll know exactly where to find things just by looking at the box. On that note, be sure to write down the contents on the top and at least two different sides of the box, so you can easily see what’s in the box — even if it’s stacked or lost in a pile of moving boxes. 

Security Tip: If you’re using full-service movers, it’s best not to label valuables inside boxes explicitly. Instead, I like to use codes, like “J.B.” for my jewelry box or “snaps” for my camera equipment, which still help me — and only me — identify what’s in the box.