Are you moving soon? Maybe this is your first time, or perhaps it’s not. In any case, packing up all of your stuff isn’t an easy job.
Since moving (and unpacking) involves reshuffling things at the new place, you need to get your home packed up in due time. Accomplishing this takes preparation, a bit of know-how about moving and packing, and a little bit of luck.
How can you efficiently pack for your move? What packing tips will help you out?
In this article, we cover the major moving tips for packing up your home, ensuring a smooth transition from your old house to your new one. Read on to know more.
1. Create an Inventory of Items to Pack
To help ensure a successful and organized move, it is important to create an inventory of all the items you are moving. This list should include categories of items like:
- clothing
- furniture
- kitchen items
- electronics
In addition to creating a list, you should also break down each category into subcategories to help keep track of all your items. Finally, take pictures of the items before you pack them, as this can be helpful if you ever need to refer back to something in the future.
2. Gather and Purchase Supplies
Seek out strong boxes, packing tape, markers, bubble wrap, and other essentials. Secure all hardware necessary to prepare, such as:
- plastic sheets
- scissors
- packing material
Bring along clothing hangers with garment bags to hang your clothes to keep them looking fresh in the truck. Stockpile a variety of bins, so that you can safely transport items, both fragile and non-fragile.
Reusable bags will also be a great packing help when you finally transition to your new home. Lastly, don’t forget to purchase packing peanuts and packing paper to ensure all your items remain safe and secure during the move.
3. Start Packing Early
Packing in advance can alleviate the stress of packing your entire home during the weeks or days leading up to your move. Begin with packing items you don’t often use, such as items in storage or seasonal items like winter clothes.
Consider sorting items into categories and purchase a few extra boxes to help you keep track of where everything is as you go along. Utilize packing cubes to organize clothes, electronics, and documents. With a proper plan for a move and organization, packing in advance can help make your move a stress-free experience.
4. Label Each Box With Its Contents
This helps to identify what is in each box and helps to organize their items. It also saves time in the long run, when unpacking and therefore unloading, because you can easily identify which boxes must be unpacked first.
Labeling can be done as simply as writing on the box with a marker, or more thoroughly with a label maker or stickers. If you’re concerned about old labels getting in the way, trace the top of the box with a thin line to provide extra labeling space.
Additionally, if both you and your mover have the same list of what is in each box, you can keep track of all items without having to open each box.
5. Wrap Fragile Items
It is important to wrap items securely in thick bubble wrap or packing paper so they are not damaged while in transit. To ensure that items are well protected, use strong packing tape to securely seal the edges of the wrapping material.
Be sure to place a few pieces of bubble wrap both inside and between multiple fragile items. When packing glass, use strips of bubble wrap that are secured within the glass itself, so that the glassware does not move and make contact with other items during transit.
For additional cushioning, make sure there are a few inches of space between individually boxed items and on the top, sides, and bottom of the box when packing.
6. Make Sure Your Boxes Are Not Too Heavy
Before packing any box, make sure to weigh it. Aim to keep each box at 50 pounds or less. If a given box weighs too much, divide it among multiple boxes or reorganize its contents.
Also, when packing heavier items such as books, dishes, etc. consider using smaller boxes. Additionally, use plastic bins as they can be securely sealed and are more durable than cardboard boxes.
One of the best packing tips when preparing for a move is to consider local movers if your boxes are too heavy. The cost of hiring professionals is more expensive than packing up yourself, but it will save you time, energy, and the risk of injury.
7. Pack an Essentials Box
A carry-on is important and this should include the items you need immediate access to such as:
- toiletries
- toilet paper
- dishes
- paper towels
- cleaning supplies
- towels
- bedding
- a few snacks and drinks
- phone charger
- your wallet
- keys
- first aid kit
- any medication you need
Pack this box last and make sure it’s the first box you unpack at your new destination. Make sure to include any documents or information you need such as birth certificates, leases, contact information, and driver’s licenses. Have a checklist of items you need to pack and when you finish packing an item, cross it off the list so nothing is forgotten.
Follow These Packing Tips for a Successful Move
Overall, relocating to a new house can be a stressful experience, however, pre-planning the packing process can make it a lot easier! Be sure to label boxes, take measurements, and use packing materials to keep your items safe.
Follow these packing tips to be sure you’re ready for the move and make your transition a smooth one. Start planning your packing today and let the move be a smooth experience!
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