5 Packing Tips for Your Next Move

1) Manage Your Packing Wisely

Organization here is key! Our homes come in a variety of sizes with a collection of bells and whistles. We suggest breaking packing down into smaller, more manageable goals. Complete a single room at a time over a course of days or weeks. You can also break your packing down by item category. For example, one day pack all cooking items, next all Bathroom items, next all garage/ automotive/ yard maintenance, etc. If you are doing this without the help of a contractor, the key here is TIME. In order to make the experience as smooth as possible, you must allow enough time to pack and also gather the materials required to protect your belongings from damage in transportation.

5) Be Careful About What You Pack In Boxes

The reason this is important is that items packed in boxes, unless done properly, are easily damaged. To properly pack a box with breakables, first organize items of like size together. Second, wrap each of the items using a packing paper or foam. Finally, place the heaviest of the wrapped items at the base of the box ensuring that all items in the box are packed tightly enough to prevent movement. Fill any additional space with packing paper, packing peanuts, or cloth towels. Another example for clothing, pack daily clothes in standard boxes folded neatly and wardrobe boxes for all garments that typically hang in a closet or wrinkle easily.

5) Wrap Your Furniture

You might be thinking, “my tables, chairs, and couches are sturdy. I can save money by not purchasing blankets and materials to wrap before transportation.” This would be a costly mistake! These items all must be wrapped in moving pads/blankets or stretch wrap to protect surfaces. This is essential as these items are often placed against the back or sides of the moving truck to secure them and contact with hard surfaces can cause scratches or dents. We recommend all large furniture be wrapped before moving.

4) Keep Track of Hardware When Disassembling Items

Taking apart furniture can be a necessity when preparing to move. You may encounter lots of loose hardware such as screws, nuts, washers, and/ or bolts. Have a few sandwich bags handy and place the loose hardware inside. Remember to label the bags so when you go to assemble the furniture again, it will be easier to remember where the hardware went. If you do end up losing a piece of hardware in the shuffle as sometimes happens, don’t panic! Most of your basic hardware can be found at any local hardware store. Speak with an associate and they can help to find an exact or close match to the piece.

5) Don’t Skimp on Moving Materials

Perhaps the most important tip here! There are tons of materials that can be used to meet all sorts of packing needs. Don’t feel overwhelmed though! If you buy these essentials. They should be sufficient for most moves! The list includes: packing paper or foam, cardboard or reusable boxes, moving blankets, stretch wrap, and tape. Some of these items can be a bit pricey, but you must remember that your precious belongs are only as safe as you ensure they are during packing. While in transportation, they could bump a corner or shift in the truck collecting dents or scratches. Your moving materials are there to help you ensure the risk of damages are minimized.

So that’s it! Follow these 5 tips and you’ll be on your way to preparing for your next moving adventure. If you still feel overwhelmed and feel like hiring moving professionals would be right for your move, call Homebound Moving at (408) 320-5547, email at homeboundmoving@gmail.com or like us on Facebook @homeboundmoving. We are here and excited to help you meet all of your moving needs!