(BPT) - Is a move on the horizon for you? You're not alone. The U.S. Census reports 26 million Americans moved in 2023.¹ That's a lot of boxes getting packed nationwide! For many people, moving into a new home is a time for exciting beginnings, fresh starts and sunny horizons. The key to making the most of it is to get organized. Scotch™ Brand gets it - and knows how important it is to ensure your boxes arrive safely, just as you packed them.

TV personality and Scotch™ Brand partner, Susie Evans, is here to offer five of her best tips for a smooth, successful and fun move.

1. Label your boxes

I have moved A LOT - even to Japan - and I've found that the key to any successful move is staying organized. I always start by labeling and categorizing each box into different groups such as "kitchen" or "bathroom." Then I pack similar items and include a summary of the contents of what is in each box. This helps to slow down the unpacking process and keep things in order for when it's time to unpack.

Once all boxes are packed, reach for Scotch^® Heavy Duty Packaging Tape to secure moving boxes. It's built with ultimate strength to guarantee boxes stay sealed* - all you need is one strip to get the job done right. For heavier boxes, use Scotch^® Tough Grip Packaging Tape to seal moving boxes containing up to 80 pounds of weight.

2. Pre-pack your essentials

Use a special box to pack all your essentials for the first week in your new place. This includes your toiletries, any prescription meds or supplements, and a week's worth of clothes. That way, you won't be sifting through unpacked boxes searching for socks and face wash, and you can concentrate on decorating.

3. Take reference photos of your old space

While you're excited to style your new digs, sometimes you just love how something looked in your old home and want to bring that vibe into your next one! Take a reference photo so you can look back and re-create the look in your new home.

Also, for all my fellow renters! This is really important to do at the move-in, too! If there is a security deposit involved, you're going to want photos (labeled with the date) to prove it looks just as perfect when you moved out as when you moved in.

4. Downsize!

Don't be afraid to get rid of things along the way. Before you pack, go through every room and remove unused or unnecessary items that you wish to donate. My rule of thumb is, if you haven't worn it in a year, it is time to say goodbye. You'll have less to pack, and you won't feel frustrated or rushed as you unpack. Downsizing also allows you to start life in your new space with a clean slate.

Have extra boxes lying around? Use Scotch^® Box Lock™ Packaging Tape to instantly seal your donated items inside recycled boxes or boxes being reused, so they can transfer safely to your local donation center.

5. Order in

The very last thing that I want to do on move-in day is cook! I opt for DoorDash and use it as an opportunity to scope out the local restaurant scene in my new neighborhood. Order in and save the cooking for the following week.

No matter how big or small your move is, Scotch™ Brand is here to support you with your moving journey. For more moving tips visit and follow @scotch on Instagram. Welcome home!

REFERENCES

¹ U.S. Census Bureau's CPS Historical Migration/Geographic Mobility Tables.

* If your box does not stay sealed, 3M will refund the purchase price of this tape. Proof of purchase required. Contact: 1-800-3MHELPS.