My last post talked about preparing for your move–some of the things that need to be done before you start packing. So now, let’s talk about packing. If you prepare for your move by purging, you’ve set the stage for packing only those things that you really want to take with you.
Start by creating a list of things that you’ll need access to as soon as you get to your new home. For example, your toiletries, items that you might need for the movers, utility company information, etc. These are things that you want to pack in a “right now” box so that you know where they are at all times and can get to them quickly. Anything that can go into that box when you start packing should, then continue to add items as they become available and as your move date gets closer. This is a box that you don’t want to let go onto the moving truck, but instead into your car and then to a designated place in your new home as things are being moved in. My designated spot was a particular closet.
Next, start packing things that you aren’t using such as out of season clothing, decor, etc. As you pack, add the boxes to the list that you created (see Preparing For Your Move). Give each box a number and remember to number each box with the same number you give it on the list. For instance, when packing your kitchen you might end up with 8 boxes, so you would number them “kitchen box 1”, etc. and have the number reflected on your list along with a description of items that are in each box. This allows you to refer back to the list at any time during packing or after your move and easily locate where something is without having to open several boxes to get to what you’re looking for.
As you continue to pack, keep coming back to the list to update it with the new boxes that have been packed. Allow yourself at least one week to pack. The bigger your space and the more things you have, the more time you’re going to need. There will, of course be last-minute things to pack, so keep boxes and other packing materials handy throughout moving day.
Hi Sheila,
Great post. A couple more tips for packing:
1. Set up a designated area in your house/apt for packing. The area should have enough space to build boxes and a surface area to lay out packing paper. This way, the mess stays in one area and you know where all of your supplies are.
2. Know how to pack certain items. This packing guide may help: http://www.holmanmoving.com/packing-guide.aspx
Cheers,
Paige
Thanks for the additional points, Paige!
Neat article. Preparing for the move is half the battle. Once you’ve gotten done preparing things you’ll feel a lot better.
Indeed, only half the battle, and yes, you do feel a lot better once you’re prepared and ready to go. Thanks for posting your comment.
Proper packing ensures a successful move. The post is quite worthy to provide the momentum which will help boosting the confidence for getting rid of hassle prone moving.