Packing efficiently during a move can save you time, money, and stress. While a small move may seem easy to pack for on the surface, it can be surprisingly difficult. There are different types of shippable furniture that have varying packing needs, which is partially to be blame, but also the fact that over-buying or under-buying materials is a major issue.
Learn all the practical tips you need to know in order to start packing like a pro. This will help you to tackle your small move more efficiently.
1. Start Early and Create a Packing Plan
Starting to pack early is the easiest tip to handle your move successfully. By starting earl, you will provide yourself with ample time to get everything situated, which reduces last-minute stress while also allowing you to organize properly.
Break down your packing process by room or by item category to begin. Also, aim to start the entire process around 2-3 weeks before your move is actually scheduled to occur.
2. Gather the Right Packing Materials
The second way to ensure you are on top of your packing is to double-check that you have all the right supplies. Sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, packing tape, labels, and stickers should all be at the top of your list. If you’re feeling eco-friendly, consider investing in packing materials that reflect this.
Packing materials are the one item you should be willing to splurge on in your budget as they are the items keeping your goods safe during the move. When measuring for the right amount of packing tape or box size you need, measure all furniture or stacks of goods that you have to ensure you don’t overbuy.
3. Use Smart Packing Techniques to Maximize Space
To avoid ending up with wasted space, you should try to pack as efficiently as possible. Fill boxes to their capacity, but ensure that they still close flat. Overstuffing can compromise their integrity and lead them to break. If your budget is tight or if you have particularly fragile goods, consider using clothing, towels, or linens as an extra layer of protection.
To maximize space in your boxes themselves, pack heavier items at the bottom and lighter items on top. All fragile items should be in their own containers, together with bubble wrap and cushioning as needed. For furniture, disassemble large pieces ahead of time to make more space and wrap the pieces to protect both them and the items surrounding them in the box.
4. Label Everything Clearly
Simplifying your packing experience during a move isn’t just about the before but also the after. This is why labeling everything clearly is so important. Clear labeling will make the unpacking process far easier as it will save time and reduce confusion or chaos when you are inevitably in a hurry.
When labeling, the detail you should include is the contents within, whether or not they are fragile, and the room the box should be placed in. To take things an extra step, consider color-coding each room and adding specific instructions as needed (such as if something delicate is on top of the box or if the goods inside need to be unpacked before everything else).
5. Use Professional Packing Services When Necessary
Naturally, you can’t always be expected to do everything by yourself. If you have fragile, valuable, or difficult-to-pack item, then it may make sense to hire professional packers. You can expect to pay around $60 per hour for packing services, but within this price you are receiving the help of experts who can ensure your goods are protected.
Professional packers make the most sense when your move is significant enough that it would take you weeks to move through all the items yourself or if you have unique furniture items. To find the best offering, you should compare quotes from different packing companies and request that they price-match if you happen to find something lower. Again, this is an expense that it’s best to be willing to splurge on, given the importance.
Tackle your move with efficiency
By starting to plan your move on the earlier side, using the right packing materials, and making use of smart packing techniques, you can handle your move quickly and efficiently. Always take your time and stay organized to encourage a smoother moving process. By packing efficiently, you can reduce stress and save money on your move in the long run, which will make the entire process more enjoyable.