10 Packing Tips To Help You When Moving
Packing in preparation for moving feels like the most challenging and most time-consuming part of relocation. Planning ahead and avoiding common mistakes could help reduce the strain of packing. Moving hacks and tricks can help set the tone for hassle-free and cheap moving.
The packing tips below will help you maintain a calm and orderly mood during packing as you prepare to move:
1. Prepare adequately
The moment you decide and settle on a moving date, create a packing list. The list should have everything you’re going to do, from finding a mover’s company to packing and finally unpacking. Give every item on the list a specific time frame that will keep you in check.
Begin by finding and booking with a removal company. Inform the utility companies of your moving plans for the necessary changes to commence on their side.
Plan your budget and find ways to avoid unnecessary spending, like finding free boxes. Avoid shopping before the moving date and start eating up food supplies in the house instead of restocking.
2. Get rid of items you do not need
Donating or disposing of stuff you no longer use is a primary activity when preparing to pack. Declutter and do closet purges to reduce unnecessary items in your wardrobe. Look at things you have not used in a long time and might never use, then put them aside when packing.
Instead of packing them, consider getting a short-term storage unit to store the items you feel might be given out, donated or sold later.
3. Do no unpack everything
Instead of emptying the dressing drawers yet, you are going to move with it, leave them in there and just secure them with a plastic wrap. This saves the time and space that could be used by removing all items and packing them separately. Leave the clothes on the hanger and pack them while still on the hanger. This will make it easier when unpacking at the new property.
4. Utilise household items as packing supplies
Glasses, perfume bottles and other breakables require proper padding and good handling when packing. You can wrap them with towels and linens to cushion them and avoid damages. Use large pots and kitchen basins to pack spices and other small items in the kitchen. Use suitcases to carry heavy items since the wheels make it easier to carry them—Pack clothes in unused trash bags, buckets and laundry baskets.
5. Label your boxes
It is essential to have detailed labels indicating the content of sealed boxes. Most people prefer having the specific colour of packages for every room. For furniture, wrap the screws and assembling tools in plastic paper then attach it with tape to a part of the furniture. If you do not have proper labels, just use markers and take pictures of what is inside before sealing the boxes.
6. Use plastic covers to avoid leakage
Add a plastic layer from a plastic paper or foil to every bottle that leaks slightly when overturned. Moving can get vigorous and things will be shaken up. To avoid spilling liquids, plastic wraps are good as they tighten a bottle cap’s grip.
7. Avoid empty spaces in boxes
Boxes should be packed light to make moving and lifting easier. However, avoid leaving empty spaces in boxes especially those that have fragile items. Shifting inside the box could cause impact enough to break the items. You might get tempted to fill in those spaces with content that is totally different from what is in the box, don’t! Mixing items will only make unpacking a nightmare. Fill empty spaces with Styrofoam or rags to act as shock absorbers. Wrap jewellery around or through straws to avoid tangling.
8. Pack a special bag
Unless you have paid the removal company to do the unpacking, it might take time to finish. Have a special bag to help you survive before you unpack. The special bag should have valuables, documents, a few bathroom essentials and snacks. For the snacks, have a small cooler to keep them fresh. If you have kids, have some supplies for them and include a first aid kit as well. It is important to also have one set of a change of clothes, mostly pyjamas since you’ll be tired and just ready to sleep after moving.
9. Pack electronics in their original boxes
Electronics are expensive and must be handled with utmost care. Use the original boxes that probably have paddings and Styrofoam. If you do not have the original boxes, special wooden crates can be prepared with adequate padding. If possible, ask the movers to pack electronics in your personal car, keeping them safe from possible damages.
10. Dispose of hazardous materials
Those who might not be fully aware of what hazardous materials consist of are simply materials that consist of flammable, poisonous or explosive content. These materials can be found in paints, bleach or gas cylinders. Removal companies have a policy against transporting hazardous materials. Consider disposing of these materials before the moving day in an eco-friendly manner. If you must move with them, discuss with your removals company on safe ways to pack. Do not attempt hiding them inside other boxes as this could put everyone involved at risk of fire, poisoning or explosions.
In conclusion, remember to avoid anything that could complicate the moving process. If you have kids, consider taking them to a friend or relative and pick them after you have moved and partially unpacked.
On the moving day, have a game plan to reduce the hassle that comes with confusion. Order takeout for breakfast and ensure it is heavy breakfast, you might not get a chance to eat once you commence the moving activities. Trust your movers and relax to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Consider moving midmorning to avoid rushing against time and to also ensure the roads are slightly less busy. You do not want to move in the evening when working hours are almost over and the movers are in a rush.
Up next in our blog series is How To Choose A Removals Company In Barnsley.
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