3 Packing Tips to Get You Moving
Packing can be stressful and overwhelming. It is one of those dreaded but necessary chores of moving. It can be especially daunting when we realize how much stuff we've accumulated over time and how long it is going to take to pack all of our belongings. But packing can be a manageable task and a stress-free experience if we start early and have a plan.
Here are three (3) tips to get you packed and ready to go:
1 | Give Yourself at Least 6 Weeks to Pack. Allow enough time (at least 6 weeks) and pack a few boxes each day. Take stock of your items and obtain plenty of boxes from a moving company or collect sturdy boxes from local stores, like supermarkets. Also, consider investing in specialty boxes, such as wardrobe and mirror/painting cartons. Also, make sure you have marking pens, packing peanuts or bubble wrap, strong 2-inch wide packing tape, unprinted newspaper and leak proof containers or plastic bags (for liquids and small odds and ends).
2 | Have a Plan. Plan out how you will pack up your belongings. Decide what needs to be packed first such as seldom used and out-of-season items. Then work your way up to everyday items, like dishes. It's also a good idea to pack one room at a time. Keep box weights to a maximum of 50 pounds and pack heavier items on the bottom. Clearly mark on each box the contents and the room it will go in at your new residence. For fragile items, clearly mark "fragile" on the box and a directional arrow to indicate the correct upright position. Decide what you will need to access as soon as you arrive at your destination. Write "Open First" on these boxes and load them onto the truck last or put them in your car. Also, pack a box with essentials for your first few nights, such as prescription medicine, toiletries, a telephone, clothing, towels, toilet paper, and bed linen.
3 | Protect Your Stuff. You'll want to make sure that your belongings get to their destination in one piece. Here are some packing techniques to help avoid damage:
Artwork and Mirrors - Wrap all pieces individually with bubble wrap or cardboard. For artwork framed behind glass or mirrors, tape an "X" across the mirror to keep pieces in places in case it should break. Place each piece in its own flat, fitted box and fill in any space with crumpled newspaper.
Computers - Before packing your computer, back up your data on either an online service or a portable hard drive. If possible, pack the computer in its original boxes and packaging. If you no longer have them, use a box with shock resistant insulation or create padding at the bottom and all around the sides. If you will be using packing peanuts, wrap the computer in a plastic bag so the peanuts won't get inside and damage the computer. Place the CPU in the center of the box with the motherboard side lying flat on the bottom. Protect the top with more padding. Make sure the computer is a tight-fit in the box. Use this technique for your monitor and printer. Don't forget to remove the print cartridge and paper from the printer. This same procedure can be used with other electronics.
Furniture - Have large plastic bags or shrink wrap on hand to protect furniture. Use rags, blankets, comforters and towels for padding.
Glasses and Stemware - Stuff a bit of paper inside a glass, wrap the stem, and then wrap each piece individually. Place glasses face down on a 3- to 4-inch cushion of crumpled newspaper. Top off the box with 2 to 3 inches of crumpled paper.
Plates - Create a 3- to 4-inch cushion of crumpled paper in a sturdy box or dish pack. Wrap up to four plates at a time by taking two sheets of newspaper, place a plate slightly off center, fold paper over the plate, then stack a plate on top of the covered plate. Fold paper back over the second plate and repeat this process until four plates are wrapped. Now wrap the bundle and place it on end in the box. Continue to fill the box with bundled plates, and then top it with 2 to 3 inches of crumpled paper.
For more information on packing tips, speak with your moving company representative (or visit moving company's website for packing tips). And remember, your real estate professional can also be a great source of information.
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