Organization is Key for a Relocation that is Stress-Free
Start Packing Early and Stay Organized - The best way to stay on track is to start packing early. Open all doors and drawers to ensure you don’t miss anything. Once you’ve packed up the items from each area, close the door or drawer to signal that it’s fully packed and ready. This system helps you stay organized throughout the process.
Don’t Mix Items from Different RoomsTo keep things organized, avoid mixing items from different rooms in the same box. Clearly label your boxes to identify what’s inside and where they should go in your new home. This saves time and minimizes confusion when you’re unpacking.
Use Wardrobe Boxes for Clothes- Pack your closet efficiently by using wardrobe boxes. These boxes allow you to keep clothes on hangers, making the packing process quicker and easier. You can also place clothing from drawers into suitcases, which are great for keeping items organized and easy to transport.
Protect Your Items with Packing Paper- You can never use enough packing paper to protect fragile items. Ensure your belongings are secure by wrapping everything carefully. For extra protection, use bubble wrap for delicate items, such as electronics or breakables.
Pack Dishes CarefullyWhen packing dishes, always stack them upwards in a box. Use custom-designed boxes to ensure your dishware stays safe. Avoid wrapping delicate china in newsprint, as the ink can cause stains. If you're packing kitchen items, be prepared to spend extra time wrapping each item individually.
Prepare Electronics for Safe Transport- If you still have the original boxes for electronics like TVs and stereos, use them to pack these items securely. If you don’t have the original packaging, use bubble wrap or foam padding to protect electronics during the move.
Set Aside Personal Items- Set aside any items you wish to keep with you in a dedicated area, such as cable boxes, medications, or other essential items. Let your movers know not to pack these, so they’re easily accessible when you arrive at your new home.
Pack Important Documents Separately- For important documents like passports, insurance papers, children’s health records, and family photos, pack them separately in a clearly labeled box. Keep these items accessible during the move to avoid misplacing them.
Label Boxes by Destination, Not Origin- When labeling boxes, write the room where the box should go in your new home, rather than where it came from. For example, if a box from the attic belongs in the playroom, make sure to mark it as "playroom" so movers can place it in the correct location right away.
Avoid Used or Weak Boxes- Don’t use boxes from the supermarket or recycled boxes that might not be strong enough for your belongings. These boxes may not hold up during transport and could even harbor pests. Always use sturdy, moving boxes to ensure the safety of your items.
Pack Animal Kennels Efficiently- If you have pets, pack their kennels carefully. Most pet kennels can be disassembled for easier transportation. This also saves space in the moving truck.
Pack Breakables Over a Padded Surface- Always pack fragile or breakable items over a padded surface to minimize the risk of damage. Wrapping breakables in bubble wrap or packing them in custom boxes ensures they stay safe..
Handle Appliances and Electronics with Care- When packing appliances like stand mixers, never tip them on their side. The lubricating oil inside can leak out and cause damage. Keep them upright to prevent spills during the move.
Use Small Boxes for Heavy Items- For books or other heavy items, use small boxes. These boxes are easier to lift and carry, preventing overloading and potential injury during the move.
Last-Minute Packing Tips
Ask Movers to Load Essential Items Last - When you’re almost done packing, ask your movers to load any items you may need immediately in your new home last, so they’re the first things unloaded at your new location. This includes personal items like medication or electronics you may need right away.
Tape All Parts of Disassembled Furniture- As you disassemble furniture, be sure to put all loose parts (screws, bolts, etc.) in a plastic bag and tape the bag to the main base of the item. This way, everything stays together during the move and is easier to reassemble.
Pack Your Bedding in a Wardrobe Box- For the last things to pack, place bed linens, comforters, and pillows in a wardrobe box. You’ll be able to find your bedding easily when you arrive at your new home, making it more convenient to settle in after a long day of moving.