Pro tips for packing during a move
Although the moving season is still months away, you’re better off getting as much done as you can ahead of time, rather than rushing to do everything at the last minute.
You’re undoubtedly aware that moving is an art that relies on well-honed organizational skills. But that’s not all! A few tricks for packing and arranging things in boxes can help you save time, optimize space and prevent your tableware and other valued items from breaking.
4Are you or your loved ones moving soon? How would you like some professional advice to help ensure your peace of mind? Our goal is to make it easy for you to pack up your belongings so your move is as pleasant as possible!
Organization above all!
Do you already know what day you’ll be moving? If so, that’s perfect! You can start your preparations now so you prevent any oversights or other similar problems from spoiling the big day. It’s never too early to start gathering up your essentials. First, sort through your clothing, decorative objects, furniture and other miscellaneous items. Once you’ve sold, given away or thrown away everything you’re sure you don’t want to take with you to your new home, it will be much easier for you to determine your packing needs.
Let’s start with the boxes! You don’t necessarily have to pull out your wallet to get boxes that are sufficiently large and sturdy. Ask your neighbors, your grocery store, your corner convenience store and your friends and family. Around the house, you may already have plenty of resources that will do the job. If necessary, plastic grocery bags and trash bags can function as good alternatives for packing lighter items, such as clothing, bedding and toys. You may also want to consider storage bins. In other words, you probably have a variety of options on hand, so don’t hesitate to look in your garage, attic, storage room and toolshed before spending your hard-earned money.
While boxes are essential, they shouldn’t be the only thing on your list of packing materials. Here are some other things you can start setting aside:
- Wrapping paper or newspaper. You’ll definitely need some to protect your fragile items.
- Bubble wrap. This is also highly recommendable for protecting delicate objects. Since it’s unlikely that you already have any, you’ll probably need to buy some.
- Packing popcorn. These little balls of Styrofoam will fill up the empty spaces in your boxes and help protect your fragile items. However, they aren’t very environmentally friendly. If you absolutely can’t do without them, choose the biodegradable type.
- Labels, scissors, felt-tip pens, packing tape, twine and any other materials that will help you identify and solidify your boxes, secure an item you’ve folded or rolled up, etc.
Our tips for packing clothing, dishes, mirrors and more
Here’s our advice, category by category, to help you with your packing. While it may not make the task exactly pleasurable, it should at least make it a little more pleasant.
Packing clothing
The best way to pack your clothes is not to pack them! If possible, put them on hangers, bind them together and cover them with a transparent bag to keep everything clean and contained. That way, you’ll avoid taking up unnecessary space, reserving it, instead, for objects that you absolutely must transport in boxes or suitcases.
If you still prefer to store your clothing in boxes, you can opt for wardrobe boxes. With traditional boxes, put the longest clothes in the bottom and fold the edges up along the sides of the box so you can pile other clothing on top. Fill in the empty spaces with ties or socks and make sure you protect dresses and other delicate garments.
Packing tableware
If possible, opt for corrugated cardboard boxes. In any case, cushion the bottom of your boxes with paper. Wrap each item in two layers of bubble wrap. Avoid using newspaper, as the newsprint can leave stains. It’s also not a bad idea to use your table linens to protect your dishes.
Load the heaviest and least fragile utensils first. Fill in the spaces with paper and make sure the top of the box is stable so you can stack other boxes on top of it.
Packing stem glasses
Use boxes with separators to pack up your regular glasses and wine glasses. If you don’t have this type of box, just follow the same procedure as you did with your tableware, taking care to place the glasses upside down with wadded up paper all around and in between them.
Packing pots and pans
Pack your pots and pans with smaller, lighter items, as well as bottles of liquid such as oil or vinegar. That way, if something spills, it will be easy to clean up.
Packing small appliances
Ideally, you will have saved the boxes they came in. Otherwise, you can use sheets and pillows to hold them in place and combine them with lightweight items, such as utensils or plastic containers, to keep the boxes from getting too heavy.
Packing a television
Place it in a box that’s sturdy, well padded and flat, and if possible, avoid transporting it in the moving truck. It’s better to take it with you in your own vehicle.
Packing a refrigerator, stove, washing machine, dryer and dishwasher
You don’t really need to worry about packaging in this case, as it’s unlikely that you’ll be able to find boxes that are large enough. Surround the appliances with protective covers and arrange them in such a way that you can stack boxes on top.
Packing electronics and valuables
Once again, it isn’t necessary to pack up these items. To ensure that you don’t lose or break anything, it’s best to take them with you in your personal vehicle, if possible.
Packing mirrors and antiques
Get out your bubble wrap and surround these items with several layers, but don’t pack them too tightly. You won’t want to damage them and you’ll want to make them easy to unpack. Place them in boxes designed for such purposes or secure them on a flat surface that’s not too high so they won’t break if they happen to slide off.
Packing bedding, floor coverings, curtains and mattresses
For most of these items, bags are your best option. However, you should invest in a mattress cover, as it’s more hygienic.
As you can see, packing for a move is mostly a matter of common sense. However, sometimes you may not have enough time, energy or help to do it properly. That’s why Martineau Movers is happy to put their expertise to work for you. You’ll benefit from their advice, their full supply of packing materials and their perfect mastery when it comes to loading a moving truck. Everything it takes to minimize your stress, right?
Sources: Radio-Canada. Emballer comme un professionnel [Packing like a professional]. 2013.
