Any discarded documents should be shredded. Shredders are quite inexpensive and have the added bonus of providing lots of extra packing material. Use shredded documents as padding for your fragile items. In fact, you can shred junk mail, newspapers, and magazines to save money on packing supplies.

After sorting your documents, set aside important files. These records—including mortgage papers, legal documents, IDs, birth records, marriage certificates—should stay with you on the day of the move.

All files should be put in special file boxes. These “bankers boxes” be purchased at an office supply store and keep your files neat. Organize files, then tape and seal the lid.

Sort and pack your books

Next, begin packing the family library—even if the "library" is just a small bookshelf.  To sort and pack your library:

1. Recycle old magazines and newspapers.
2. Keep books that are useful or have some sentimental value.
3. Donate unused books.
4. Pack books carefully.

Pack office supplies, furniture, and electronics

After packing your files and books, sort your office supplies. Toss dead pens, scratch paper, and loose paperclips. You should look at your desk and see what must absolutely move with you and what can be donated to a local school or charity.

Modular desks must to be disassembled for transport. Ask yourself—is the desk worth the hassle? If your desk is large and functional, it may be worthwhile to move. If not, consider selling your desk and purchasing a new one that will work better for your purposes.

At last, pack your computer and electronics carefully. Protect any fragile items with extra padding and move expensive equipment in your car – never in a moving truck.