Move-in package with these 5 easy tips

DIY Tips for Busy Professionals Facing a Move. Are you facing a move in the near future or do you know someone who is? Moving can be exciting but also overwhelming, which is why we’ve put together these packing tips to simplify the process for you. For more help, contact us to help you pack, organize your move, or unpack and organize your new home. We are here to make things easier for you.

1. Location of boxes. If your moving company doesn’t provide the boxes or if you’re moving locally, you have a couple of options for getting supplies. Many moving companies offer used boxes at a reduced price or for free. Also, grocery stores and liquor stores give away boxes for free. Grocery stores typically unpack supplies in the morning, so get there early before they have recycled.
2. Order matters. You don’t want to start the packing process in your kitchen or you won’t be able to eat and serve meals for a week or more. Start with storage areas and closets that are not used as often. If you don’t anticipate a smooth transition from one home to the next, or if space for storing packed boxes is minimal, consider renting a PODS storage unit to store the boxes while you pack them. The order also matters within each box. Heavier items (like books) need to be packed in small boxes or just the bottom of larger boxes or they will become too heavy to lift. Lighter and more delicate items should be placed near the top of boxes or in larger boxes.
3. Tricks of the trade. Dishes should be packed on the side, not flat. Placing a foam plate between each one and then wrapping a package in paper provides good protection. Use Glad Press & Seal to keep items on divided trays (think silverware drawer). Items stored in furniture drawers can sit still. To prevent drawers from opening, wrap your furniture in stretch wrap. Hanging clothes can be left on hangers. Use a garbage bag and poke a hole in the bottom with your fingers. Place a group of hangers (10-15) across the set to create a makeshift garment bag out of the garbage bag. Place a second bag on the bottom of the clothing and pull up. The two bags can be sealed with packing tape to protect your clothes. Hanging clothing packages stack nicely in the back seat of a car or on top of truck boxes.
4. Labeling is important. Whether you label the boxes with the room they should go to, the room they came from, or the contents of the box, the key is to maintain consistency. If the movers will carry the boxes in the boxes, they will look for a writing that tells them which room your box will go to. Signs on bedroom doors will help you know where to take the boxes. Labeling things like curtain rods, hooks and nails for hanging things, cords and cables will also be a lifesaver on the other end. If your electronic cables scare you, take a picture of how they are connected before unhooking and packing them. It is also advisable to back up your computer before disconnecting it. It may take a while before you reconnect to the backup drive.
5. Pack for your trip. If you move to the other side of the country, you will need to pack for the travel days to your destination. I recommend packing for more days than expected, just in case. Moving vans are notorious for being late, and sometimes the boxes aren’t unpacked right away. You’ll also want to put together an emergency folder to carry in the car. Vital records, bills to pay, moving company information, and to-do lists can be stored here. Lastly, pack an essentials box with the items you’ll need right away when you move in (toilet paper, paper plates, silverware, coffee, etc.).