29 Days To A Smooth Move

No two people are going to pack alike. One person will swear that room by room, everything at once, is the only way to go, while another will insist that each room will require two packing sessions—one for those items that are not used as often, then another one to get everything else.

How it should be done is an individual thing, and what works for you is the method that should be used. It is evident, however, that items such as books, seasonal decorations or ornaments, and off-season clothing can be among the earliest things packed, AFTER de-cluttering has occurred, of course. IF IT’S NOT BEING USED, DON’T PACK IT!

Once initial packing has begun, it will probably be easier to make and adhere to a packing schedule. The very act of beginning to put things in boxes and containers will enable you to see exactly what should be considered essential, and what can be packed sooner.

Garages and outbuildings can be packed almost immediately after residence and relocation arrangements have been finalized, followed by spare or guest bedrooms. Books, DVDs, and artwork can also be packed fairly early.

Bedrooms and much-used areas, such as the living room, kitchen, and dining area, will have to wait until close to the last minute—but enough time should be allowed to make sure that packing these rooms is not a rush job, or that they are not being completely packed on the day of the move itself.

Those who work out of a home office should notify clients and other essential personnel of the move, and set a date for when the office will be “closed” at the old residence. All necessary business should be taken care prior to that date.

At one time in their lives, most people will have to pack and move. Packing and accomplishing any move type, no matter how near or far, takes preparation and proper move planning.

If a decision is made to hire professional movers, these people will need to be contacted and arrangements made to secure their services as soon as possible. Get free moving company estimates from Affordable Moving Company using the forms above.

From there, packing can begin, and the earlier the better. While there is no “set” way to pack, there are some ways that do seem to work the best.

Rooms should be packed one by one, with boxes and containers being labeled as packing occurs. Correct and clear labeling will be invaluable when the times comes to unpack.

Those items that are not currently or will not be needed for a while can be packed the soonest. This includes any out-of-season clothing, decorations, ornaments, and things of that nature.

Heavy objects should be put in the smallest boxes possible; most other items can go into medium or “regular” size boxes. All boxes and containers should be heavy enough to hold the contents. If necessary, re-enforce weak areas with strong tape. Boxes should weigh no more than 50 pounds, if that much.

ALL boxes and containers should be numbered and the room to which they belong should be clearly marked. It might be a good idea to make a list or log.

Have material on hand that can be used as “filler”, but remember that sheets, towels, bed linens, soft clothing, and even stuffed toys can be used to cushion items in boxes.

Pack a “first night essentials” box and make sure it is loaded in such a manner that it can be accessed immediately upon arrival at the new residence. Include items for meal preparation, toiletries, and other necessities.