The first step when moving is to pack. Doing it incorrectly will make your move harder than it needs to be. Here are 10 tips on how to pack for moving.
Are you preparing yourself and your family for a move?
For anyone that has moved before, it won’t come as a surprise how stressful it can be. In fact, studies reveal that the process of moving is considered to be one of the most stressful events in one’s life.
Fortunately, there are steps that you can take to minimize the stress of moving and make it a more positive experience. Not only are these steps relatively simple, but they’re also incredibly wallet-friendly for those on a budget.
If you’re preparing to move to a new home, you’re going to want to read this. We’re uncovering our most helpful tips on how to pack for moving and make the process far less stressful.
With a little preparation and a lot of organization, moving doesn’t have to be such a tough time for all.
1. Start Early!
First things first, it’s essential to start your packing and organizing as early as possible!
The last thing you want to experience is a sudden rush to have everything packed and organized a mere few days before your move. To avoid this rush, be sure to prepare a list a few months in advance.
Slowly but surely, begin to pack up each and every room. Start with the rooms that are utilized least and finish with the rooms that are utilized most. This typically ends up being the kitchen and the living room.
2. Minimize Your Load
Of course, packing and organizing are significantly easier when you have a minimized load.
If you’ve lived in your home for many years, it’s likely that you’ve acquired a number of things. Be sure to conduct an inventory of all of your belongings. Rid yourself of the things that you no longer use.
This is especially the case if you are downsizing and moving into a home that is smaller than your current residence.
3. Pre-Order Various Size Boxes
Before you even begin to pack your belongings, it’s essential to pre-order your boxes.
When doing so, be sure to order various sized boxes. From small to large, you’re going to require different boxes to pack your belongings in a way that’s organized.
4. Pack Your Boxes Based on Weight
With your various sized boxes, you’re going to want to divide your belongings based on weight.
For example, heavy items such as books should be packed into a smaller box. This ensures that the box isn’t too heavy and that it will avoid breakage. On the other hand, light items will be packed into larger boxes. Again, this ensures that you’re making the most of your space. And that the larger boxes will avoid being too heavy.
5. Pack the Necessities Last
When it comes to your packing timeline, be sure to pack all of your daily necessities last.
This will ensure you’re able to use all of your most important belongings even a few days prior to moving. The items that are used less should be packed first and stored in a room. For many, this is a room that is nearing the front of the house and an exit.
6. Make Use of Existing Space
If you have large chests, luggage, and drawers, be sure to occupy these spaces.
It’s helpful to think of these items as free and even stronger boxes. If these items are being transported in the first place, they might as well help to carry your belongings.
These items can easily fit shoes, linens, and books that would otherwise require a strong box.
7. Have a Specific Box for Documentation
This next step is absolutely essential and easily forgotten by many.
Too often, important documents such as passports, identification, and banking documents are packed away and forgotten.
When it’s time to move, certain documents may have to be presented or utilized. Be sure to have a dedicated box or folder to host your most important documentation.
8. Keep Clothing on Hangers
When it comes to packing your closet, do yourself a favor and keep your clothes on their hangers.
Not only does this make for simple, effective packing, but it can easily scatter on the floor of your car. Once your clothes arrive at your destination, simply transfer into your new closets.
9. Use Garbage Bags
When it comes to packing up soft materials such as linens, pillows, and towels, never underestimate the power of garbage bags.
These garbage bags can easily accommodate your softer materials without breakage. As an added bonus, it can be tied and easily placed into a moving truck. Even with boxes, it can be squished in between nooks and crannies and avoid taking up prime space.
10. Use Pre-Existing Materials for Furniture Pads
To ensure that your breakables are well-protected, use your sheets, blankets, and towels to act as furniture pads.
This will help to protect your valuables without having to purchase real furniture pads. It also gives space up instead of having to be placed in boxes.
How to Pack for Moving: Tips and Tricks
The average American is reported to move approximately 11 times throughout their lifetime.
Whether you’re moving locally or to another state, there’s no denying just how stressful the process of moving can be. Not only can it expensive, but it also takes months of preparation and physical work.
Due to the high levels of stress that are associated with moving, it’s essential to have a detailed plan outlined. These tips on how to pack for moving can surely help you create a plan that’s best for you.
If you’re experiencing high levels of stress in relation to your move, it may be worth considering the help of professionals. Read our blog post to find out and understand if you could benefit from professional packers and movers!
