More Moving Tips and Guides
Ready to get moving? Check out the best in moving tips, checklists, videos and more in our complete collection of all things moving! Let us help you make your move a breeze with our trusted moving advice.
What to Do Before You Pack
Preparing as much as you can before your move will help make the process as seamless as possible. Prepping before you even start packing is the first step.
Gather Packing Supplies
It's best to gather packing materials early, ensuring you have everything you need when it's time to start packing. Items like packing tape, labels, and markers will help organize and secure your boxes. Protective materials such as packing paper, bubble wrap, blankets, and towels are essential for safeguarding your belongings.
Find Packing Boxes
Many liquor stores, grocery stores, and other retailers often have empty boxes they recycle. You could also call around to see if any places will set some aside or check Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace for availability in your area.
While this can be an inexpensive or even free way to obtain boxes, they may not offer the best protection for your items during a move. Moving-specific cardboard boxes are the best option for keeping your breakable items safe.
Organizing Your Packing Boxes
If you've collected a variety of boxes, ensure consistency for easier packing and better space utilization in your vehicles. Check that none of the boxes are torn, wet, or damaged so you can purchase moving boxes or containers elsewhere if needed.
Declutter & Clean Your Home
Before packing everything, see if there are items you no longer need. Clean your house and identify things you can throw out, donate, or repurpose. It's easier to sort through items before packing rather than moving unnecessary things.
Take Pictures of Your Intricate Items
Photograph any appliances or electronics with complex setups so you can easily reconnect cords at your new place. If you like the layout of your art and pictures on the wall, take a photo to remember it.
What to Do During Packing
You’ve finished your packing prep and you’re ready to actually start moving! Read on for tips of how to make this sometimes daunting task a breeze.
Use Right Boxes For The Right Stuff
Heavy items are best packed in smaller boxes to make them easier to lift and maneuver. Lighter items can go in larger boxes so you can move more at once. Bulkier or awkwardly shaped boxes are easier to carry if they contain lighter objects. Plan your packing instead of randomly placing items in boxes.
Care For Your Fragile Items
Be sure to wrap fragile items like electronics, glass, art, and other valuables. If you still have the original boxes, they are ideal for moving these items. Alternatively, wrap breakables well in bubble wrap, paper towels, quilts, or blankets. Fragile items such as dishes should be packed vertically.
Pack by Room
Rather than mixing items from different rooms into one box, keep boxes separated by room. Mixing dishes with living room decorations will complicate unpacking. Packing each room's items together creates a more streamlined process. Be sure to label your boxes by room to make unloading easier on moving day.
Pack a Little at a Time
Starting to pack can feel overwhelming and often takes longer than expected. Try to pack a little at a time, focusing on one room at a time. If you know your move-out or move-in date, start packing in advance to ensure you have enough boxes and supplies.
Securing Your Boxes
Now is the time to use your supplies to secure your boxes with plenty of packing tape. Depending on the distance of your move, you might need extra sealing, but it's better to use too much tape than too little.
If you hire professional movers, they may want to check how you packed your fragile or valuable items before you seal the boxes.
Label & Organize as You Pack
For an easier unpacking process, organization is crucial. Clearly label your boxes so you can quickly find your bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and other items when you’re moved in.
What to Do Before You Move
Now that you’re packed up, you can focus on the move itself. We’ve gathered some moving tips for things you can do in advance to help make moving day as smooth as possible.
Keep Your Documentation Organized
Create a dedicated folder for your moving paperwork to stay organized. Keep reservations, checklists, and receipts in one place to prevent anything from getting lost.
Set the Date
If your move-in date is flexible, pick a day that works best for you and anyone who might be assisting. Inform family and friends well in advance if you need their help. If you’re hiring a moving company, consider weekday rates, as they are usually less expensive.
Map Your Route
If you're renting a vehicle, plan your route ahead of time to save time and money. Efficiency is key when moving. Even if you’re familiar with the area, consider rush hour traffic or other events that might affect your travel.
Make Sure You Change Your Address
Change your address a bit before your move to avoid missing mail, packages, and bills. This helps ensure that everything gets redirected to your new address promptly.
Set Up Utilities
Arrange for utilities, Wi-Fi, and other services to be set up before you move in to ensure you have essential services like heat and water on your first day. Also, schedule a stop service date for utilities at your old place to avoid paying for services you no longer need.
Pack a First Night Box
Pack an overnight bag with clothes, toiletries, and any other essentials you’ll need on your first night at your new home. Consider including games, movies, and disposable dining ware. This way, you can relax without rummaging through boxes after a long day of moving.
Set Aside Cleaning Supplies
Keep a separate box of cleaning supplies handy to clean your old place if necessary and to tidy up your new place before unpacking.
Stop Buying Groceries
Stop buying groceries about a week before your move to avoid wasting food. Some food items are easy to transport, but others can be discarded or donated to a local food pantry.
Moving Day Tips
You’re packed, organized, and have everything squared away. It’s moving day! Learn how to make this day as stress-free as possible.
Take Pictures
If you’re moving out of or into a rental, taking pictures of the empty space is crucial. This provides documentation of the cleanliness you left behind and any pre-existing damage.
Load the Truck with a Plan
Avoid randomly throwing items into your moving truck or other vehicles. Start with large items and fill in with smaller boxes. Stacking boxes of similar sizes will make them fit better and more securely.
Unload the Truck with a Plan
If you have friends and family helping, delegate tasks to make the process smoother and faster. With well-labeled boxes, it’s easier to place them directly into the correct rooms.
Celebrate!
You did it! Show your appreciation to your DIY moving crew with pizza or snacks. Enjoy your first gathering in your new home.
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