Most people start packing just a few weeks before their big move. We have compiled a list of packing tips to help make your packing and unpacking a little easier.
WHAT YOU WOULD NEED (EXCEPT FOR BOXES)
- Box opener
- Zipper storage bags (all sizes)
- Bubble wrap (to breakables)
These items will help you move from room to room as you pack, and they won’t get lost in the packing stuff.
GET THE MOVING BOXES
Boxes can be expensive, thus, select the ones that won’t let you down. If you have to go with used boxes, ask around but stay away from boxes used by restaurants and grocery stores. Check out neighborhood sites like Nextdoor or Craigslist for recently used moving boxes and packing materials.
If you can afford purchasing moving boxes, visit a local moving company or a hardware store. They can help with the size and quantity of boxes. There’s nothing better than to unpack from custom-built packaging!
Which Box Is for What
Items like books and CDs are best for small boxes. Pack books flat, place the largest and heaviest at the bottom. Use as much packing paper as you can to fill the gaps. Use small boxes for picture frames, silverware, or anything else you don’t know how to sort out. Fragile items like picture frames and knick-knacks should be wrapped in packing paper before putting them in the box.
Bigger items, such as electronics, toys, pots and pans, and linens, can be handled by medium boxes. Just make sure you spread the weight across the box so that its contents don’t go wobbly during the move. Zipper storage bags are great for smaller electronics items such as remotes.
Packing Dishes
Packing your plates and bowls doesn’t have to be the task to be scared of. Don’t forget an extra layer of cardboard protection when you pack your kitchen. Stack plates vertically, insert packing paper to fill the gaps, and you’ve got yourself a nice, well-packed box. The key is to individually wrap each plate and bowl with packing paper, making sure there’s enough padding between them. Teapots and vases require crumpled-up paper inside them.
Closet Boxes
Wardrobe or closet boxes conveniently come with a hanging bar, making it easy to move from an old closet to a wardrobe box to a new closet. It hardly feels like unpacking. Pillows, bathrobes, and slippers are all good to be added. Wardrobe boxes are sometimes used for big items, like garden tools and sports equipment.
To Prevent Leakage
Double check and triple check that each box that contains liquids is in its own zipper storage bag. Write “This end up” and put arrows pointing upward on these boxes so that your liquids are handled with a bit more care.
Labeling Your Boxes is Just As Important
To make your life REALLY easy, put the name of the room on the box. You’ll be glad you did when you walk around your home.
