Relocating is one of those challenges nearly everyone has to go through. It’s often not enjoyable, rarely ever fun, but it typically results in something positive. The key to a successful move, however, lies in steering clear of common mistakes and preparing in advance to ensure things go smoothly. Luckily, since moving is such a common experience, there are many reliable tips available to simplify the process. Here are some expert packing strategies to help reduce the stress of moving.
- Get Rid of Stuff
Start by creating “Throw Away” and “Giveaway” boxes before you pack. Avoid bringing along unnecessary items, like that outdated kitchen spatula you inherited decades ago. Instead, consider donating it or gifting it to someone, and reward yourself with a new one after the move.
Having these boxes ready helps reduce clutter and will make unpacking at your new home much easier. It’s also a great opportunity for a fresh start—don’t hesitate to replace worn-out items, especially those you use regularly, with something new and more functional.
- Pack As Early As You Can
Consider packing well in advance, even if you haven’t finalized destination. Start by boxing up off-season items and things you won’t need before the move. For example, if moving in the summer, pack winter coats, along with books and other infrequently used items. By the time moving day arrives, many of the belongings will already be packed, reducing last-minute stress.
- Book Early
If you’re planning to hire movers, rent equipment, or book professionals like painters or cleaners, be sure to schedule them as early as possible. Delaying could result in higher costs or even missing out on available trucks or movers, especially during busy moving seasons. Booking early allows you to get the best movers like Drop A Box before they are fully booked.
- Label Each Box with Destination Room and Contents
Clearly marking each box with the room it belongs to and a brief description of its contents will help and movers know where everything goes. For added organization, consider numbering the boxes and keeping an inventory in a notebook. This will help you track what you’ve packed and ensure nothing goes missing when it’s time to unpack.
- Keep Your Essentials Close
The night before the move, pack a suitcase or bag with everyday necessities-like a change of clothes, toiletries, important documents, medications, and any must-have items for kids, such as favorite toys or stuffed animals. Keep the bag in the car, truck cab, or on the plane. That way, if anything goes wrong and the moving truck is delayed or lost, you still have the essentials.
- Take Extra Care When Packing the Kitchen
The kitchen requires careful packing because it has a variety of fragile items. To pack dishes, wrap each one individually with packing paper, then group five or six together and wrap them again. Always pack dishes on their sides, not flat, and use plenty of crumpled paper as padding on the top and bottom of the box. For cups and bowls, nest them inside one another with paper between, and wrap groups of three or four together. Use sturdy dish-barrel boxes for added protection.
When packing glasses, pick a box with cardboard dividers to prevent them from shifting, and wrap each glass in several layers of paper to ensure they stay safe during the move.
A Take Home Message
These are essential hacks to apply when packing for a move. Remember, moving does not have to be stressful if you take time to organize everything.