Nobody likes to pack; however, proper packing is essential in order to make your move as smooth as possible. When items are packed correctly, they are protected during the move and also when they are unpacked at your final destination.
Some people prefer to use a packing service, which can be booked at the time of the move. If your budget does not allow for this service, following are some tips to help you pack the contents of your home. These tips include what materials to use, which items to be packed and how to pack different types of items. For example, dishes and glasses are packed differently than books and clothes.
If you choose to use a packing service, remember to book it in advance. Most moving agents will provide the manpower and materials to pack your entire home, or only some of your items, depending on which service you choose.
Whether you do the packing yourself, or have professionals do it for you, these tips will help make your move as smooth and trouble free as possible.
- Pack according to season. So if you are moving in Spring or Summer you should have all your winter items packed together so you don't have to unpack until next season.
- Begin at the top of the house and move downwards. If you have an attic, it's a good idea to sort it out first. You will probably discover several things you didn't realize you owned.
- Tie up electrical cords to prevent them from getting tangled. Use rubber bands or bag ties to secure the cords.
- Pack your current phone book - you may need to call residents or businesses in your former hometown.
- Ask a friend to help by watching your children and pets when packing and on moving day.
- Make sure the items you'll need first are loaded in last when packing the truck. You'll make access easier for the things you need (ie. kids toys, kitchen items, telephone and radio).
- Plan ahead for what you'll need the first day after your move. Packing a separate bag with your toiletries, a change of clothes, etc. will prevent unnecessary scrambling or a run to the local store.
- Never wrap lamp shades in newspaper, as the ink will soil the shade. Instead, carefully wrap each shade in three or four sheets of tissue paper, a pillowcase or a large lightweight towel.
- Identify each box where it should go and its contents in bold lettering.
- Drain all power & yard tools so they won't leak.
- Clean the refrigerator, leave the door slightly ajar for a time to decrease the humidity in the appliance. Place some baking soda inside to prevent mildew and musty smells.
- Make sure to keep important documents such as; birth & marriage certificates, medical records, school records, passports, pet records, credit card & banking records, tax returns in a safe place and not in a moving truck.
- Pack your boxes with heavy items on the bottom and lighter boxes on top. Try to use more smaller boxes that larger boxes so you can carry them.
- Protect your flooring on moving day, tape old sheets or a vinyl runner to the ground to protect surfaces.
- Pack containers tightly to avoid shifting.
- Wrap electric items individually before packing and cushion them well. Don't use bubble wrap on these items because often the static electricity can cause problems.
- Empty the contents chests and dressers before attempting to move. This will make these items lighter and will not put so much stress on the joints of the furniture.
- Have a master list of all boxes and their contents organized by room.
- Load your plants in the moving truck last, and unload them first.
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