Packing your home up for a move involves a lot of work. Then, you must unpack everything on the other end. Getting organized and staying that way will make the transition into your new home go smoother.
Here are seven ways our Tampa movers say you can pack smart.
1. Don’t Wait Until the Last Minute
If you try to cram all of your packing into a day or two, you are going to end up with things crammed into boxes with no order in mind. Start packing weeks in advance if possible.
Start with seldom used items like off-season clothing, holiday decorations, and the things lurking in the back of the closet.
2. Focus on One Room at a Time
Tackling one room at a time allows you to check it off your packing list. You may have to pack in phases, but going one room at a time still makes sense. Go through each room and pack the infrequently-used items first. Then, go back and start packing up the non-essential items.
Finally, on the day before the move, pack the final items up in each room.
3. Label Everything Clearly
You need to know what is in each box without opening it. Give each box a number and then write a note of what is in each box. You can keep a more detailed description of its contents on a spreadsheet or itemized written list.
You can also use colorful labels to designate where a box goes at your new place (red dot = living room, blue dot = bathroom, etc.)
4. Set Aside Essential Items
There are going to be items that you need for getting through the first few days. Those need to go into an essentials box. Think about you would need.
You will want basic eating and cooking items, bed linens, a few towels, toiletries, pet items, kid items, and a change or two of clothing.
5. Determine What You Will Carry with You
Some items should not go on the moving truck. There are going to be things you will need to carry with you personally. You don’t want to risk family heirlooms or valuables. Documents such as birth certificates, rental agreements, moving documents, and passports are just a few things you will need.
Keep all these items in a separate box and do not let them go on a moving truck.
6. Declutter, Dispose, and Donate
Don’t move anything you don’t have to. Go through each room and get rid of anything you no longer need or want. Get rid of broken items. Have a garage sale if you desire. Donate items to your favorite charity.
See if family or friends could use the items. Make a trip to the dump for things no one can use or desire.
7. Have Ziploc Bags on Hand
You are going to have a ton of small items that could easily get lost in the move. Put them into Ziploc bags that are clearly labeled with their purpose.
This will ensure they don’t get lost and that you can find them when you are unpacking.
These seven tips will help you pack your home up and make the transition to your new place go as easy as possible. Do you have any other packing tips to share?