Packing for a move can be an overwhelming and daunting task. But you can lessen your stress and the amount of work it takes to pack, move, and unpack, by following these 10 simple tips.
1. Declutter
Get rid of any items that you no longer use or need. Pick one area or room to focus on at a time (linen closet, cupboard, or bathroom storage, for example). Sort through all items and place them in either a keep, toss, or sell/donate pile. It’s amazing how easy it is to downsize items when you use this method.
2. Prepare
There are few things more frustrating than getting into the “groove” of packing and then suddenly realizing you’re out of boxes or packing tape! Avoid this by planning ahead and buying more boxes, tape, and packing paper than you think you’ll need. If you’re on a budget, check out Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist for deals.
3. Start Early
We all have items that aren’t used on a daily basis. Box these items up while you’re decluttering to save even more time later. Setting aside even 30 minutes per day to pack can be the difference between your move being a stressful or relaxing experience.
4. Pack Your Bags
On the first night in your new home, after moving and unpacking all day, the last thing you’ll want to do is rummage through boxes looking for clothes, toiletries, or essentials. Make it easy by packing a couple of suitcases with any items you’ll need for the first week or so. Be sure to include any important papers, passports, and jewellery.
5. Colour Code
As you pack each box, write the contents and the room in which it belongs and mark it with a piece of coloured masking tape or colour-coded labels. On move-in day, simply place a piece of coloured masking tape on the door of each coordinating room. Whether you’ve hired a professional moving company, or have friends and family helping, this tip will save a lot of time and frustration by taking the guesswork out of where each box belongs.
6. Go Room by Room
Similar to decluttering, packing is easier if you focus on one room at a time. As you complete each room, you will have a sense of accomplishment and it will make packing up an entire home a less daunting task. I like to start by packing up the kitchen, as it usually takes the most time.
7. Keep it Consistent
Make it easier to organize and load boxes into the moving truck and help avoid damaging breakables by not weighing down your boxes. Keep your boxes around 50lbs or less and pack heavy items like books in smaller boxes, and lighter items such as pots and pans in medium to large boxes.
8. Prevent Breakage
Ensure your fragile items don’t get damaged during the move by carefully wrapping and packing them, and clearly marking the boxes with fragile stickers.
9. Make it Easy
Wardrobe boxes are a quick and easy way to protect jackets and clothes and will save time in packing and unpacking, as all items remain on their hangers. If you’re on a budget, using clear plastic bags are a great, economical solution. Simply pull the bag over 5-6 items of clothing from the bottom, and tie tightly at the top of the hanger.
10. Use the Right Supplies
Picture boxes are a great way to keep your treasured art and wall decor safe. Carefully wrap each item in either bubble wrap or acid-free tissue paper and secure it in a picture box. Moving from one home to another can be overwhelming, but you can reduce your stress, make packing and unpacking easier, and ensure your items arrive in excellent condition just by using these 10 simple tips! Make the transition even easier by hiring a professional organizer to take care of all the details for you!
