Moving across town or across the country does not have to be a catastrophe. If you learn how to pack boxes for moving, you’ll be relaxing in your new space before you know it.
Different people will have varied requirements and worries, such as how to pack china dishes for moving, how to move precious wood furniture safely, or how to move delicate heirlooms, but in most occurrences, this comprehensive collection of moving tips and strategies will be helpful.
Get rid of everything
Packing all of your belongings into boxes, bags, and other containers can be overwhelming. Make things easier on yourself by reducing clutter as much as possible. Perform a ruthless purge of unused or unnecessary items before packing a single box. You’ll have less to pack, move, and unpack, and you’ll be able to start fresh in your new home.
Make a moving folder
Begin collecting new addresses, rental or purchase papers, moving contracts and other documents in a single folder. Think about making a hard copy rather than a digital one in case your computer or phone battery dies during the move.
Pack as far ahead of time as possible
Ideally, you’ll be aware of a move (even if you don’t know where you’re going) weeks or even months in advance. Begin by packing off-season items and items you will not miss. If you’re moving in the summer, you can pack your winter coats ahead of time, as well as books and other once-in-a-while items. When the time comes to move, many items will be ready to go, giving you less to worry about.
Book Early
If you’re hiring movers, renting supplies, or hiring professionals like painters or cleaners to work on your home, make your reservations as soon as possible. If you wait too long, you may end up paying more or not being able to find a truck or movers at all, especially if it’s peak moving season.
Schedule utilities for your new place
After the dates have been set, contact your utility providers to schedule service at your new home. You don’t want to arrive exhausted from the move only to discover that the electricity, water, or heat has gone out. It’s wise to plan early and keep a moving folder for your recommendations. Request service interruptions for both your current home’s move-out date and your future home’s move-in date at the same time.
Carry only what you need
Tuck everyday essentials—a change of clothes, a toothbrush, must-have stuffed animals or toys for the kids, medications, paperwork, and so on—into a suitcase or bag you’ll keep in the car, truck cab, or on the plane the night before the move.
Make an equipment purchase
Purchase supplies a few days before moving. Running to the store is the last thing you want to do while packing moving boxes or making sure everything is out of the house. Box cutters, sticky bandages, permanent markers, packing tape, paper towels, and rubbish bags can all be ordered or purchased.
Consider renting moving equipment from a moving firm for heavier items.