Moving can be an exciting endeavor, a fresh start or a new beginning. Moving can also be stressful, overwhelming and nerve-racking if not planned out. There are tips that you can follow when packing for a move to make it easier for you and the moving company. You will never suffer a failed move when you plan ahead and pack accordingly. States Van Lines has come up with some tips to help you pack effectively when moving.
Planning
Don't put off packing until the last minute. This process needs to be well thought-out and planned. If you wait until you don't have enough time you will be throwing things together haphazardly into boxes. You will cause yourself unneeded stress and anxiety. There will be more of a chance of broken items and lost belongings. Get out the calendar, make lists and schedule yourself enough time to get the job done. It is worth it to plan well and give yourself enough time to clean out, clean up and pack neatly.
Before You Start
A good rule to follow before you start packing is to make sure you pack only what you want to take. Moving is the perfect time to get rid of the junk you have accumulated over the years and you certainly don't want to move unwanted items to your new location. You may cut your packing time in half when you eliminate what you may not need or want anymore. You may realize you have things stuck under a bed or in a closet that you had long forgotten about. So plan yourself enough time to clean out before you begin packing.
Ground Rules
Don't just use any old box you find. Make sure to use sturdy boxes that will close or have lids. When packing, remember that you have to be able to carry the box. As a ground rule, try to limit the maximum weight per each carton to no more than 50 pounds. Make sure the boxes are not overloaded and do not buckle or do not close properly and tightly.
How to Pack
When you begin packing, think toward moving day. You don't want to pack up something you may need before you move. So begin first by packing up the clothes for example that are out of season or decorations that you won't need now. Then think about the things that you don't use very much and pack those next. The things that you will still be using up until time to move, pack on the last day.
Wrapping
Wrap belongings carefully and firmly pack, and cushion well. Before packing a box, layer the bottom with several inches of crushed paper for cushioning. Wrap each belonging individually with clean paper, paper towels, Kleenex or tissue paper. For extra protection you can then layer again with newspaper. You may want to write on the item what it is. Make sure you pack largest, heaviest items in the bottom and the smaller, light items in the top. As you layer the items, fill in any gaps with crushed paper, towels or wash clothes for additional cushioning. Make sure there are not empty spaces and everything is protected well.
Room to Room
Think about unpacking while you are packing. Make sure you pack for the room you will be unpacking in. Have boxes labeled bedroom, kitchen, bathroom and so on. Keep items that go in a particular room together. Try to pack similar things together in the same box and keep all parts of things together. You don't want to get to your new location and cannot find the bolt to a dresser or bed. Keep any hardware that goes to an item in a small plastic bag and tape or tie it to the piece that it goes to.
Finishing Up
As you fill the boxes, make sure they are not overloaded, are sturdy, the items are properly wrapped and cushioned. Before sealing the boxes, make sure you will not need to access this box again before moving day. Seal the boxes with a good packing tape and do not use scotch tape because it will not hold in heat or cold.