Moving Methodically: Packing Tips and Advice for Moving

Moving Methodically:  Packing Tips and Advice for Moving

We all know moving is one of the most stressful things you can do, so we wanted to help. We’ve compiled a list of tips and tricks to help make your move a little less stressful and make a little more sense. 

Reverse packing method: 

People will often pack the garage first and other rooms that aren’t used as often, but, have you ever thought of just making a list of your most used items? Your kitchen is used every day, for example, anything that’s an everyday use item, like a favorite pan, knife, or cutting board, put into a “priority kitchen” box. That way, you’ll have the items that you use most often and can unpack that box first. In general, pack the most used items last and have a special way to distinguish or label those boxes.

Use technology & take pictures: 

There are QR codes and other stickers you can purchase to be able to know exactly what is in each box. If you have time, this method may be worth the effort to keep your mind at ease and help you unpack methodically with items you’ll use most and first. If you don’t have that much time, simply buying different colored labels will help; there are also just colored labels for each bedroom, bath, garage, etc. that will help make sorting easier. That way, you can designate a corner of each room and put those boxes there, so they’re out of the way as you unpack. 

It’s also a great idea to take pictures of any big pieces of furniture, so that you know the condition just in case movers (if hired) break something, as well as videos of main electronics working. That way you have proof of their condition in case you have to claim anything with insurance or the company. Our military families, you guys are pros at this. Everyone else out there, you may actually want to ask your military friends for their favorite tips, including having a high value item list with make/model, year, and amount purchased, again, just in case you have to start a claim.

Use wardrobe boxes: 

This might be one of the biggest time savers ever. Using wardrobe boxes allows you to keep all hanging clothes hung within the box and can save the hassle of taking everything off of hangers, playing the untangle the hangers game, and putting everything back on— usually wrinkled. 

To make this even easier, sort your hanging clothes into categories in your closet before you pack, and then use garbage bags over each group, putting a hole in the bottom of the bag and draping it over your gathered hanging clothes, covering your clothes, and tying the bag at the bottom. Then use zip ties to tie each hanging set together around the hangers. You can even add a dryer sheet to the bag to give added freshness and ensure your clothes won’t smell when you unpack. 

Use flex totes: 

These plastic, zipper bags are fantastic. They come in various cube sizes and they’re great for packing linens, clothes, and more. Add a couple dryer sheets in each tote, and you’ll keep things smelling great, too. These totes are translucent as well, so you can see what’s in them or label them with permanent marker or a sticker. They’re helpful to separate winter and summer clothes, too, and keep your closets organized even after your move. 

Now, for the priority boxes you’ll want to have readily available upon moving in and setting up/unpacking first, as well as some boxes that should stay with you as opposed to being loaded onto the moving truck: 

Safety and health first: 

Having your fire extinguisher, a first-aid kit, glasses or contacts (if applicable), and your medications and/or daily vitamins all in one box would be ideal as well. Your home and health binders and/or files with important legal documents, small safe (with irreplaceable items, memorabilia, cash, and jewelry), and any firearms (if applicable) should also be on a high priority list and stay with you if possible. 

The essentials:

You want to have everything you’ll need on the first and last days here. Extra packing tape for any last minute things, a permanent marker to label anything, important documents or your home binder, a dish towel or two, paper towels, cleaning supplies, trash bags, box cutter, scissors, and the like— and, most importantly, TOILET PAPER! :-) 

Pack a few days worth of clothing, a towel or two, bed sheets, pillow, and hygiene products into a duffel bag for your personal comfort items. If your furniture will be delivered at a later date, then air mattresses are a great idea to set-up a comfortable spot to crash for a few days. You can actually find an inflatable couch and bed in one and a pump for less than $100. 

Electronics & “just in case” tool box: 

Having your cords, chargers, remotes, and batteries all in one place can make the hassle of unpacking a lot easier. I’d also keep a screwdriver and hammer in this box for any last minute fixes in the old place and so they’re conveniently located for the new place. Not going to lie, a corkscrew in this box and glasses would be helpful as well or a 6-pack of your favorite beer; moving is stressful and you deserve to relax after a day of unloading. 

Don’t forget pizza money and a cooler to share drinks with friends if they’re helping you move. If you’re hiring professionals though, you’ll just want to be sure the few boxes of high value items and essentials come with you, just to ensure their care. A Bluetooth speaker and a rockin’ playlist would be our last suggestion, so you can jam out while you move out— and in— to your next abode!