(NAPSA)—Life may be a bit easier and little less expensivefor manyof the 44 million Americans whorelocate each year. Now they can change their address using an online service from the Postal Service, electronically file the information and take advantage of money-savingoffers from companies featured at the Website. A secure site, MoversGuide Online is the fastest and most accurate way to file change of address information. It even lets users order moving supplies and arrange storage, notify utilities to shut-off or initiate service, sign up for phone service, create a customized moving checklist and learn about schools and services at the newlocation. Plus, the site provides such useful tips for moversas: Get more boxes than you think you will need. * Use bigger boxes for lighter items. Reinforce the bottom of boxes with at least one strip of packing tape. Pack room-by-room, keeping similar items together. Pack boxes firmly to keep the contents from shifting. * Use crumpled paper for padding. Seal boxes tightly with wide packing tape. Pack CDs vertically. Don’t stack them flat. Place heavier items in the bottom of the box and lighter itemson top. Separate items with paper to prevent scratches. * Remove lids from jars and ceramics. Wrap each separately. Seal any opened boxes and bottles. Pad fragile items with tow- Getting the stamp of approval from many movers is a Web site that helps them change their address electronically—and much more. els, linens, curtains. Clearly mark these boxes“fragile.” When disassembling furniture put the hardwarein a plastic bag with any assembly tips and tape it onto the item itself. Ask your mover if you can leave clothes in drawers. Find out how the movers want hanging clothes packed. Make a masterlist of all your belongings. Number boxes when they are packed and sealed. Indicate on each box its room destination. Write on the master list the contents of the numbered boxes. Make a box of essentials labeled “Open First.” Have this box loaded last (so it’s unloaded first) or move it yourself. It should includeflashlights, a pocket knife, a hammer, screwdrivers, nails, masking tape, tape measure, light bulbs, hand towels, soap, toilet paper, shampoo, shower curtains, paper towels, coffeemaker andfilters, paper plates and cups, plastic utensils, dish detergent, a sponge, pet foods, dishes and trash bags. To learn more about MoversGuide Online go to www.usps.com.
