Born and raised in Portland, Milly has had a lot of experience moving and writing about the relocation process.
The Easiest Way to Pack for a Move: A Stress-Free Guide
Moving can be stressful, chaotic, and overwhelming, like trying to fit a square peg into a round hole. But fear not – packaging doesn’t have to feel like a game of Tetris gone wrong. We will show you the easiest way to pack for a move, so you can box up your entire life efficiently and quickly. Therefore, sit back, relax, and get ready to say goodbye to packing anxiety and hello to a stress-free relocation.
The Easiest Way to Pack for a Move Is to Start With a Plan and Timeline
Starting with a plan and timeline is essential when it comes to boxing up and making relocation day preparations. It can help you stay organized and focused and, therefore, reduce the amount of relocation stress you’re experiencing. Without a plan, you may end up packing things randomly, which can lead to a lot of confusion when you need to unpack after the move. Also, there is a higher possibility of your items getting damaged.
A plan also helps you prioritize what needs to be packed first, which can be particularly important if you have a last-minute relocation. By creating a timeline, you can ensure that you have enough time to pack everything properly and that you’re not rushing the whole process.
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Give Yourself Enough Time to Pack Your Belongings in an Organized Way
Securing enough time when packing to move is a necessary precondition for a successful relocation. Packaging can be a time-consuming and labor-intensive process, and it’s important to avoid leaving everything until the last minute. By starting early and giving yourself enough time, you can box up your belongings in an organized and efficient manner, reducing the risk of damage during transit.
Packaging in an organized way can also make the unpacking process much smoother and less stressful, as you’ll be able to easily locate and access your belongings when you arrive at your new home. Additionally, boxing up early can help you downsize for relocation and get rid of any items you no longer need.
Packaging everything securely takes time - so makes sure you have enough of it
Gather Packing Supplies – Get the Right Materials
When preparing for a relocation, having the right packaging materials is essential. Before you start packing, it’s important to gather all the necessary supplies to ensure that your belongings are properly protected, such as:
Boxes – different-sized boxes are the most obvious and essential supplies,
Specialized crate – get the dish packs, mirror containers, and wardrobe box,
Tape – you’ll need plenty of packing tape to secure your boxes and prevent them from opening during the transport,
Bubble wrap and/or packing paper – these materials are ideal for wrapping delicate and fragile items,
Labels – relocation labels are essential for keeping track of your belongings.
Additionally, besides packing and moving materials, you should also have enough relocation blankets. They are a good solution when you need to relocate large items such as furniture and appliances and protect them from scratches and dings during transit.
Sort Through Your Items and Decide What You Need to Keep
Deciding what to keep and what to get rid of can be a fun and liberating experience.
By decluttering and getting rid of any unnecessary items before you relocate, you can lighten the load and make the process less stressful.
Therefore, put on your detective hat and get ready to sort through your belongings – who knows what hidden treasures and forgotten relics you’ll uncover in the process!
Recent research has shown that 80% of belongings people keep are used rarely - or never
Discard or Donate What You Don’t Need
It can be tempting to hold onto everything when relocating to a new home, but this can lead to unnecessary expenses and time waste. By tossing, selling, or donating items that you no longer need, you can streamline the relocation process and start fresh in your new home.
Not only will it save you time and money on packaging and transporting items, but it will also allow you to simplify your life. Of course, don’t forget that donating items that are in good condition to charity, such as The Salvation Army, can benefit those in need.
Decluttering is one of the most important steps in the boxing-up process
Label Everything When Packing Your Sorted Items
Let’s face it – organizing a relocation can be chaotic. By labeling your boxes and items, you can avoid the confusion and frustration of trying to find what you need amidst a sea of cardboard. Label boxes with breakables as “Fragile” to prevent accidents, and keep your belongings in one piece.
Use Color-Coded Labels to Identify Which Box Goes Where
Assigning a color to each room can help you keep track of your belongings and make the unpacking process much easier, as you’ll know exactly where to find everything. So, grab some colorful labels, get creative, and make your cross-country relocation a little brighter and more organized.
Labeling boxes will help long-distance movers easily identify where each box should be placed upon arrival
The Most Important Technique You Need for Successful Packaging and Moving – How to Pack Room by Room
To box up room by room, start by selecting one space, such as a living room. Then pack everything in that room before continuing to the next one. Make sure to label each box with the room it belongs in and a brief description of its contents. By boxing up room by room, you can simplify the relocation process and reduce stress and confusion.
Why Packing to Move According to Rooms Works
Boxing up room by room is a smart and efficient way to make the process less overwhelming and more organized. Here are some reasons why packaging room by room can be beneficial:
Stay organized – by focusing on one room at a time, you can avoid confusion and ensure that everything is packed properly,
Prevent damage – it allows you to pay special attention when packaging fragile items and other delicate belongings, ensuring that they are properly wrapped and protected,
Unpacking is made easy – each box will be clearly labeled with the room it belongs in,
Save time – by focusing on one room at a time, you can avoid wasting time moving back and forth between different areas of the house.
Protect Fragile Items and Wrap Breakables Properly
When relocating long-distance, one of your biggest concerns should be making sure that all your fragile items arrive safely. Packaging glasses, china, delicate figurines, and other breakables can be challenging since they can easily get damaged if not wrapped properly. Therefore, let’s discover how to wrap fragile items.
Use Bubble Wrap or Newspaper
Bubble wrap is ideal because its air bubbles provide cushioning that will protect the item from any impact or jostling during its journey. However, bubble wrap can be expensive in large quantities if you don’t have any on hand. In that case, the newspaper is an excellent alternative that provides adequate protection without needing to spend money. However, since its ink can sometimes cause damage, make sure not to use it to wrap valuables.
Place Them at the Top of the Box
It may seem counterintuitive to put your most fragile items at the top of the boxes, but this strategy ensures they don’t get squished by other heavier objects during transit – which can happen if they are placed at the bottom level of a stack of boxes. To further minimize any risk of damage due to shifting weight in transit, make sure that none of your heavy boxes are packed directly atop those containing fragile objects.
Add Additional Padding Underneath
This extra layer helps absorb shock from bumps and jostles. Anything from old clothing and towels to foam peanuts and packing paper can work as an effective padding material – just make sure there is enough of it so that nothing shifts around inside the box during transport!
Have a “First Night” Bag Ready
Having all of your relocation essentials in one bag saves you time and energy, as you won’t have to search through boxes to find what you need. Moreover, it ensures you have all of your necessities by your side until the rest of your boxes arrive – if you decide to hire a white glove moving company.
Additionally, knowing that you have everything you need for your first night can help reduce anxiety about the relocation. In the end, after a long day of relocating, having your favorite pajamas, a cozy blanket, and a toothbrush will help you relax and get a good night’s sleep.
What to Pack in This Bag
To prepare your “first-night” bag, start by selecting bags or boxes that are easy to carry and large enough to hold all of your essential items. Some items you may want to include are:
By preparing a bag or a box with relocating essentials, you can ensure that your first night in your new home is comfortable, stress-free, and enjoyable.
Don’t Forget About Pets – Make Sure Their Needs Are Taken Care of During the Move
If you’re relocating with pets, know that this time can be a stressful period for them as well, so it’s important to take care of their needs during the process. When it comes to packaging, preparing a pet kit with their favorite toys and food is a must – among boxing up all the rest of their stuff, such as crates, blankets, and so on.
You'll need to find a way to make this transition easier for your pet
Take Pictures Before Disassembling Furniture and Electronics
By taking pictures of the setup and arrangement of your furniture and electronics, you can refer to them later when it’s time to reassemble everything in your new home. This way you won’t have to guess where each piece goes or try to remember how everything was set up before. Additionally, taking pictures can also help you keep track of any cords or cables, which can easily become tangled and confusing during the relocation process.
Before you start disassembling everything, grab your phone and snap a few pictures
Stay Calm and Take Care of Yourself
Relocating to a new state can be a hectic and stressful experience, but it’s important to prioritize your well-being before the big day. Taking care of yourself both physically and mentally can make a significant difference in how smoothly the transition goes.
Planning a relocation to a new city ahead of time can alleviate some stress, but remember to take breaks when needed and practice self-care. Taking a few moments to relax and unwind can help you stay calm and focused, leading to a more positive experience overall.
With their relocation and packing services, a reliable relocation company, such as Long Distance Movers, can be a great help. Therefore, if you wish to save time and energy but also ensure that your belongings are handled safely and securely, don’t hesitate to make your relocation easier and get long-distance moving services.
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Packing Service
Sit back and relax. We’ve got packing services covered. We use moving blankets, shrink wrap, bubble wrap, and even custom wooden crating. We will protect and carefully handle your stuff during the move.
Move your car across the country in an open or enclosed trailer – for an affordable fee. We offer car transport as a standalone service, but you can bundle it with your household move and get a hefty discount.
Contact Long Distance Movers for a High-Quality White Glove Moving Service
Hiring professional Long Distance Movers can ensure that your relocation is seamless and stress-free, especially when you choose a white glove moving service. With this level of service, you can trust that your belongings will be handled with care, packed securely, and transported safely to your new destination. So, if you’re planning a long-distance move don’t hesitate to contact us today. Book some of the best white glove moving services and make your relocation a success.
FAQ
How Should I Prepare for Packing Before the Move?
It’s important to start early and declutter your belongings. Next, gather packing supplies and label each box with the contents and the room it belongs to. Finally, create an inventory of all your belongings to ensure that nothing gets lost or misplaced.
How Do I Know What Items to Pack First and Last?
A general rule of thumb is to start by packaging items that you don’t frequently use, such as off-season clothes, books, and decorations. Leave essential items for last, so you can access them easily until the relocation day.
Do I Need to Label or Organize My Boxes While Packing?
Yes, you need to label your boxes to make the whole process smoother and more efficient. When you label and organize your boxes, you can easily identify the contents of each box and the room it belongs to. Additionally, labeling items as “fragile” can help prevent damage.
What Are Some Tips on How to Make Packing Easier and More Efficient?
Firstly, declutter and get rid of anything you no longer need. Secondly, start boxing up early, tackling one room at a time, and focusing on the items you use least frequently. Use sturdy boxes and quality materials. Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to, and consider hiring professional white glove movers to help with the packaging and transport of your belongings.
Are There Any Special Considerations When Packing Fragile Items?
Use appropriate materials such as bubble wrap or packing paper to cushion fragile items and prevent them from shifting around in the box. Choose sturdy boxes, and be sure to label the box as “fragile.” Finally, box up fragile items separately from heavier belongings and avoid stacking heavy stuff on top of breakables.
Where Can I Find Additional Resources/Help With My Moving Process if Needed?
Consider hiring professional long-distance movers who know all the ins and outs of the relocation process. You can also reach out to friends and family who may be able to help and look for numerous online resources, such as relocation checklists, packaging tips, and guides to help you plan and organize your relocation.
How Many Boxes Do I Need for My Move?
The number of boxes you’ll need depends on several factors, such as the size of your home and the number of belongings you have. A general rule of thumb is that a one-bedroom apartment requires approximately 20 to 30 boxes, while a four-bedroom house may need 80 to 100 boxes.
Should I Use Plastic Wrap or Bubble Wrap When Packing Fragile Items?
Plastic wrap is a great option for wrapping objects with irregular shapes or sharp edges, as it can conform to the shape of the item and provide a tight seal. It’s also useful for keeping drawers or cabinets closed. Bubble wrap, on the other hand, provides cushioning and protection against impact, making it an excellent choice for delicate or fragile items.
Should I Rent a Storage Unit Before the Move?
Getting storage services can be a good idea if you have more belongings than you can comfortably fit into your new home. It can also be useful if you need a place to temporarily store items or if you need to relocate out of your current residence before your new home is ready.
What Should I Do With Furniture That Won't Fit in the Moving Truck?
Consider gifting, selling, or donating the furniture if it’s no longer needed or if it won’t fit into your new home. If you need to store the furniture temporarily, think about renting a storage unit until you can decide what to do with it.
Are There Any Tips on How to Unpack Efficiently After the Move Is Done?
Unpack one room at a time, starting with essential items such as bedding and toiletries. Make sure you make use of the labeling system to identify which boxes belong in which room – it will make the process smoother and more efficient.
Does Hiring White Glove Movers Guarantee an Easier and Smoother Moving Experience?
Hiring white glove movers can provide a higher level of service and attention to detail, which can lead to a more comfortable and smoother relocation experience. While white glove moving services may come at a premium, the level of service and expertise they offer can help make your relocation less stressful and more successful.
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