2. If you have valuables or collectibles that you would be heartbroken if something happened to them, pack them yourself. Be sure to leave room in the car for a few of these items.

3. If you’re like me and already have a lot of things packed when the movers arrive, make them responsible for the contents. To do this, don’t seal the boxes or break the seal on the boxes. When they seal the box, they become responsible for the contents of it.

4. Stay with them while they pack! Watch them as they are packing your things especially when it comes to the breakables. If they seem to be clumsy with your items, then speak up but do it nicely. They are being paid to do a good job and to get all of your household items to your new military home in one piece.

5. Offer to buy them lunch. This will go a long way with them if you make small requests along the way or ask for favors. My husband was still in training when the movers came so they unhooked my washer and dryer for me. That’s something they are normally not allowed to do. I went out of my way to be sure they had plenty to eat and drink while they were packing.

6. Be sure they list your items in detail. There will be a packing list that you must sign off on before they leave. Be sure your items are listed in DETAIL. Don’t let them just write television. It should say 32” JVC with the serial number. Otherwise, you could end up with a 12” television and you won’t be able to prove they packed a 32”!

7. Check everything before you sign. Once you have signed, you have agreed to the inventory list. If it’s not on the list, it doesn’t exist. Be sure to thoroughly check the list before you sign it.

8. Be sure the boxes are labeled. The movers should number the boxes and the numbers should correspond to the inventory sheet. Also be sure they mark each box with your last name. Some people even attach their own label with name and address in case someone else ends up with their box.

9. Layout your new military home for move-in day. When it’s time for them to move your stuff in, make sure it is easy on them to know where to go. Some people color code their boxes; others mark the door for each room in the new place. Any way you want is fine but it’s a lot easier when the boxes are divided up in the rooms they are supposed to be in. This is particularly true if you’ll be unpacking by yourself.

10. Check off the inventory list as they bring items in. Do NOT sign the final inventory until everything has been accounted for.

11. If the movers took it apart, then they should put it back together for you. If you know you want they TV cabinet against the wall by the fireplace, don’t let them leave it in the middle of the room. Make them put it where it is suppose to go.

12. Try to go through all of your items as soon as possible so you can note anything that is broken. The movers should leave you with instructions on what to do if this happens. These instructions should be followed to a “t” to be sure you’re reimbursed.

What to take with you:

1. Important papers. His official orders, birth certificates, marriage license, social security cards, etc. should all go with you in your vehicle. Do not pack these items or let the movers pack them. In all likelihood, you’ll need them before you find the box they are in. These papers should be with you at all times during your move.

2. Pictures. If you have pictures that cannot be replaced, take them with you. The last thing you need in the stress of moving is to find out your wedding pictures have been ruined.

3. Your medications. Sometimes the movers are delayed for a variety of reasons. Take all of your medications with you and be sure you have more of a supply than you think you will ever need. Better safe than sorry!

4. At least one phone. It could be days before your things arrive and you need to have communication!

5. Take toiletry items including toilet paper with you. It’s also not a bad idea to at least take the shower liner with you (with hooks) and a few towels. Make sure you also have pillows and blankets in case you have to camp out on the floor for a few days.

6. Be sure you have everything for your pets. You will need their food, bowls, litter and any medications. Also try to bring a favorite toy so they have something familiar.

7. Be sure to leave out paper plates, napkins, plastic utensils, etc. so you can still eat while they are packing your things. This will also make it easier and much cheaper when you get to your new place until you find all of your dishes. Try to pack a cooler with sandwich meat, condiments and drinks. Have snacks and bread ready so you don’t spend a lot of money eating out.

The most important thing to take with you…
Your sense of humor. In fact, as a military wife, this needs to be a permanent package that goes with you everywhere! In all likelihood, something is going to go wrong. Try to take it in stride and just smile and move on. Getting angry and upset will only make the move harder. Try to laugh and make the best of it. It will make for great stories later down the road! "This one time, in the military...."

Stacey Abler is an Army Wife and owner of the website, http://www.marriedtothearmy.com.
In addition, she also operates several Cafepress stores - http://www.cafepress.com/soldierswife for Army families and http://www.cafepress.com/soldierswife2 for Navy, Marine and Air Force families.