Packing for a move does not come easy. It might seem simple, but unfortunately, the problems of poor packing do not become readily apparent until after everything is packed and ready to move. At this stage, the problems are very apparent; they are also troublesome, having the potential to result in broken belongings or extra moving costs due to the increased number of trips.
Fortunately, packing is not terribly difficult. Like wrapping a present, it is easy once you know how. Following are the seven most effective tactics our movers recommend for packing your move.
1. Start early
Packing takes time, and everyone usually owns more than they realize. For the best experience, begin packing at least a month in advance. Additionally, starting early does not simply mean months in advance; it also means on the days you plan to pack, begin early. Getting up early and packing, after a cup of coffee or two, and knowing you are getting started a month in advance, will allow you to end by noon. Doing so and getting a lot done before the day is half over will allow you to enjoy the rest of the day, worry free, as you continue to prepare for your move.
2. Keep it light
Keeping the boxes light will make your life much easier. Large boxes should be reserved for light to moderately light belongings. There are few mistakes more unpleasant than hauling large, heavy boxes to the moving truck. Equally unpleasant are those moments when the bottom of one of those boxes gives way. Save heavy objects for small boxes. Doing so will prevent the boxes from becoming too heavy to lift. Finally, try not to overfill the boxes. Doing so will undermine all your attempts to keep it light.
3. Label
As much a strategy for the post-move moments when you want to find something, labeling will allow you to find something if you need to unpack it prior to the move. Additionally, labeling the boxes will allow you to control what boxes are stacked where, protecting valuables and keepsakes from getting broken.
4. Measure
Ultimately, the boxes will get packed into a truck or other vehicle. Measuring the boxes will allow you to know precisely how many will fit in the truck. Additionally, measuring will allow you to know exactly which boxes will fit in nooks and crannies created by odd-sized furniture. With everything measured, you will be able to efficiently load everything onto a truck.
5. Room by room
Packing room by room is one of the most effective packing strategies. It allows you to estimate how many days will be required for packing, and it will help ensure nothing is left behind.
6. Moving boxes
For the best moving experience, never borrow odd boxes from grocery stores. Doing so will leave you without lids, and it will provide you with substandard boxes not meant for moving. Moving boxes are often double-lined, providing strength to keep the box from collapsing. Additionally, moving boxes are of uniform sizes and shapes. Finally, moving boxes are available in custom shapes to accommodate clothing, art, and other odd-sized belongings.
The only exception to this is to use clear plastic bins for important things you will need when you reach your destination. Packing important items in plastic bins will help you find them quickly.
7. Supplies
The supplies to use are as follows:
- packing tape
- bubble wrap
- wrapping or Kraft paper
- black magic marker
- moving blankets
Packing tape is best for keeping your boxes closed. It is durable and resists tearing or peeling. Bubble wrap protects large ceramics or other breakables while wrapping paper protects smaller breakables, such as plates, glasses, and knick-knacks. Labeling with a black magic marker will help you identify which box is which, and moving blankets protect everything once it is loaded into the truck.