During a move, packing becomes the most hectic part of the entire process. Between keeping track of what’s been boxed, keeping kids out of the way, and writing the correct labels, things can become a bit confusing. Here are a few tips on how you can keep your cool and get through packing for a big move.
Getting Started
First thing’s first: have an inventory list. It is pertinent that you keep track of all the items you have. Start by sorting your items into sections on your list: Keep, Donate, Trash, Sell. Anything you plan on trashing can get tossed before any packing even starts. Some things you should be sure to throw out right away are expired pantry items, damaged items, and worn out/torn clothing/shoes.
Now that trash is out of the way, start preparing to pack. Evaluate the items you plan to keep and be sure you have enough boxes, tape, and packing supplies to move forward. Also pay mind to the sizes of the boxes you plan to use. You don’t want boxes that are too big, because they will be too heavy. Yet, you don’t want boxes that are too small, because there will be entirely too many. Keep this in mind as you gather your supplies. Once you have your supplies gathered, start packing your most non-essential items first, label them and set them aside. Don’t forget to check them off of your inventory list.
Stay Organized
As you move from room to room, section the room into packing zones. Have an area for supplies to sit, an area for things that need to be packed, and an area for items that are packed and labeled.
When labeling your boxes, label on the side and the top panels. Be sure to include the contents of the box, as well as its location within the house, and if it’s fragile or needs to be opened first. As you pack and label boxes, make sure to mark items off of your inventory checklist. This ensures that you don’t leave anything behind. It also comes in handy post-move, when you check that all your items are still in the truck.
Guarantee Safety
Take special care when dealing with your fragile items. Wrap dishes and glassware in several layers of bubble wrap or newsprint, and carefully place them in their boxes. Towels and blankets can easily become a safeguard at the bottom of each “Fragile” box. Be sure to pad all of your boxes if they aren’t entirely full, as well; boxes with too much open space leaves risk for items inside sliding around or the box being dented externally. Wrap any scratch-prone or upholstered furniture in cellophane or padding. Be sure to disassemble as much furniture as possible, to minimize the amount of space taken up in the truck. Moreover, pay attention to how much you are loading into each box. Safety is not solely in regards to your items, but to you and your movers, as well. The ideal weight for a box that’s being lifted is around 40-50 lbs. Always pack with your heaviest item on the bottom, and gauge the weight from there.
Keep these tips in mind, and your packing and move should run smoothly.
