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One terrific way to make packing and unpacking much easier (and save money on your moving costs) is to clean house and clear out the clutter before you even begin to pack. There's simply no reason to go on storing things you'll really never use, especially when you're investing the time and money to move those things to your new home.

Disposal options are many and include giving things to family, friends and neighbors, donating things to charitable organizations and selling things at a yard or garage sale. The garage sale is a popular choice because it brings in some extra cash for any unanticipated moving expenses.

Place an classified ad announcing the garage sale in your local newspaper, open your event early in the morning and be prepared to sell your belongings for much less than you paid for them. People will buy just about anything at a yard sale, but they usually expect a hefty discount on stuff that's been used. The items for sale should be cleaned, reasonably priced (use small round stickers) and attractively displayed.

If you want to price things right and get the most money for your stuff, visit a few other sales in your neighborhood before you hold your own. Ask the people holding the sale how they determined their prices and how well various categories of goods (e.g., books, clothing, toys) are selling. Then price your own items accordingly.

If you want to dispose of expensive electronic gear, sporting equipment or recent-year designer clothing, consider offering the items at a consignment store. These stores have become more up-scale in recent years and they offer a neat way to sell your more valuable but used belongings at a fair price. Check the telephone directory for consignment shops in your area.

Other tips and reminders:

# Get receipts for your donations, so you can take an income tax deduction.

# Take all hazardous wastes (e.g., motor oil, leftover paint, spent batteries) to the designated drop-off area in your community.

# Don't stock up on groceries or personal care items right before you move. Instead, use up your canned goods, frozen foods and spare boxes of tissues, so you won't have to move them to your new home. Then restock after you've moved and unpacked.

# Many professional movers don't handle open liquor bottles, so you'll have to give those away to your neighbors, transport them yourself (be mindful of vehicle code rules on this one) or have a party.

# If you really can't bear to part with your unused belongings, consider a storage facility. Be sure to ask about access hours, key control, lighting, climate control and security at the storage site.