Prepare for a move weeks or months in advance by decluttering and securing free or low-cost moving boxes. Label and color-code boxes by room and pack essentials in a separate, easily accessible box.

Jeff Somers is a freelancer who has been writing about writing, books, personal finance, and home maintenance since 2012. When not writing, Jeff spends his free time fixing up his old house. He has ...

This is read by an automated voice. Please report any issues or inconsistencies here. LA Times Studios may earn commission from purchases made through our links. It’s Christmas Eve, which for many of ...