DIY tips for busy professionals who are facing a move. Are
you facing a move in the near future or know someone who is? Moving can be
exciting but also overwhelming, which is why we've put together these packing tips
to simplify the process for you. For more help, contact us to help you pack,
get your move organized or unpack and organize your new home. We're here to
make it easy on you.
Locating boxes. If your moving company is not providing the
boxes or you are making a local move, you a have a couple of options for
obtaining supplies. Many moving companies offer used boxes for a reduced price
or free. Also, grocery stores and liquor stores give away free boxes. Grocery
stores typically unpack supplies in the morning so get there early before they
have already recycled them.
Order matters. You don't want to start the packing process
with your kitchen or you won't be able to eat and serve meals for a week or
longer. Begin with storage areas and closets that don't get used as often. If
you don't anticipate a smooth transition from one home to the next or if space
to store packed boxes is minimal, consider renting a PODS storage unit to hold
boxes as you pack them. Order also matters within each box. Heavier items (like
books) should be packed in small boxes or on the bottom only of larger boxes or
they will get too heavy to lift. Lighter and delicate items should be placed
near the top of boxes or in larger boxes.
Tricks of the trade. Plates should be packed on their sides,
not flat. Placing a foam plate between each one and then wrapping a pack in
paper gives good protection. Use Glad Press & Seal to keep items in divided
trays (think silverware drawer). Items stored in furniture drawers can stay
put. To keep drawers from opening, wrap your furniture with stretch wrap film.
Hanging clothing can be left on hangers. Use a trash bag and punch a hole in
the bottom with your fingers. Place a group of hangers (10-15) through the
whole to create a makeshift garment bag out of the trash bag. Place a second
bag on the bottom of the clothing and pull up. The two bags can be sealed with
packing tape to protect your clothing. Hanging clothing packs stack nicely on
the back seat of a car or on top of boxes in the truck.
Labeling is important. Whether you label the boxes with the
room they should go to, the room they came from or the contents of the box, the
key is to stay consistent. If movers will be carrying in the boxes, they are
going to be looking for writing that tells them which room your box will go to.
Signs on bedroom doors will help them know where to bring the boxes. Labeling
things like curtain rods, hooks & nails for hanging things, cords &
cables will also be a lifesaver on the other end. If your electronics cords scare
you, take a picture of how they are all hooked up before you unhook and pack
them. It's also wise to backup your computer before unhooking. It may be awhile
before it is hooked back up to your back up drive.
Pack for your trip. If you are moving across country, you
will need to pack for the travel days to your destination. I recommend packing
for more days than expected, just in case. Moving vans are notorious for
arriving late and sometimes boxes don't get unpacked immediately. You will also
want to put together an emergency folder to have with you in the car. Vital
records, bills to pay, moving company information and to do lists can be stored
here. Lastly, pack an essentials box with items you will need right away when
you move in (toilet paper, paper plates, cutlery, coffee, etc).
If the idea of going through the packing process has you
breaking into hives, let us help. Give us a call NOW and we can discuss your
move. 636-686-0048
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