Sort and get rid of things you no longer want or need. Have a garage sale, donate to a charity, or recycle. Moving provides you with an opportunity to start fresh, so ask yourself if you use the item regularly-enough to get rid of it.
Pack like items together. Put toys with toys, kitchen utensils with kitchen utensils. Bathroom items can go in one box.
Decide what you plan to move yourself. Precious items, such as family photos, valuable breakables, medications or must-haves during the move, should stay with you.
Decide what you will need first. If there are some items you will need within a day of arrival, mark those boxes with a bright sticker and keep them together.
Use the right box for the item. Loose items encourage breakage. Go small for breakable items.
Put heavy items in small boxes so they’re easier to lift. Keep weight under 50 lbs if possible.
Don’t over-pack boxes and increase the chances they will break.
Wrap every fragile item separately and pad bottom and sides of boxes.
Label every box on all sides. You never know how they’ll be stacked and you don’t want to have to move other boxes aside to find out what’s there.
Use color-coded labels to indicate which room each item should go in. Color-code a floor plan for your new house to help movers.
Keep your moving documents together,including phone numbers, driver’s name, and van number. Also keep your address book handy.
Back up your computer files before moving your computer.
Remember, most movers won’t take plants.
Inspect each box and all furniture for damage as soon as it arrives.
Tips for Packing was last modified: March 27th, 2017 by Brenda Jones