Moving is a very stressful time, and there's nothing worse than going to bed for the first time in your new home just to find out that your mattress is damaged.  If you're not hiring a moving company (or even if you are), review these tips to make sure that your mattress is relocated problem-free.

1. Your mattress needs to be wrapped and packaged well, to keep other items from damaging it.  Reputable online retailers pack their mattresses in thick bags, and then encase them in heavy duty cardboard boxes.  By doing this, the box will take the brunt of the abuse, and the bag will keep the mattress clean if the box fails.
2. Before you wrap and seal your mattress in plastic, make sure that there is no moisture in the bag.  This includes packing it outside, where it may be humid.  Any water in the bag will be absorbed by the mattress, and could lead to mold and mildew, especially if it's going to be stored, or transported in something warm (like a truck).
3. Your mattress needs to be transported and stored flat, especially if it's made of memory foam or has individually pocketed coils.  If you are only going around the corner, then by all means stand it up, but for trips longer than a few hours, find a way to lay it down flat.  If you don't, then the materials in the mattress will shift and warp.
4. Do NOT fold your mattress to get it into a smaller space.  Most mattresses bend up to 30° without becoming permanently damaged.  Any more than this and you will have a crease in your bed, your warranty will be void, and the support and comfort will be skewed. 
5. You may also want to consider leaving your old mattress in your old home, and having a new one delivered to your new residence.  Some companies can pinpoint the delivery date, so you'll never have an uncomfortable night.

What can happen if you abuse your mattress while moving?

1. Your manufacturer's warranty will be void.
2. If you bend your mattress, the edge support will become weakened, and the coil system may be permanently damaged.
3. Incorrect wrapping can lead to mold and mildew, dirt, and insect infestation.
4. By storing your mattress standing up, coils and padding may shift to the bottom of the mattress, placing a hump at one end.  For memory foam, one side may become compressed, and may not return to normal shape.
5. Uncomfortable sleeping, and compromised support!