Did you know that moving is considered one of life’s most stressful experiences?
Yep, amidst the unpacked boxes and piles of stuff lying around your home, it is perfectly normal to feel anxious or pressured.
That’s precisely why you need a plan of attack. When you systematically pack up your stuff, the process will feel quick and easy.
Want to learn all about packing for a move? Below, we share the ultimate guide to get you started.
Start with Decluttering
Decluttering is the first step to making your move easy. After all, if you have too much stuff to pack and move, there will be that much more stuff for you to get through.
However, it can be challenging to cut back on the clutter. The reality is that you will need to be ruthless about purging some of your belongings. Following are a few helpful decluttering techniques you can use:
- 3-box method: Make three piles (or boxes) for trashing, donating/giving away, and keeping to help you sort through your stuff
- KonMari method: Consider if the item sparks joy, and keep it only if it does
- Last used method: If it has been over six months that you haven’t used or thought about using an item, it’s time for it to go
If you’re still struggling to declutter, you may want to consider putting some items in a storage unit. This will give you a little more time to decide and allow you to start your new life with a clean slate.
Book Your Appointments
Appointments for movers and packers or to set up utilities can get sold out quickly.
Ensure you have your appointments when you want them by making the booking well in advance. This way, you’ll be ready to go with your timeline of moving according to your schedule.
Be sure to schedule the appointments at least three months in advance.
Gather Your Supplies
Every move needs good supplies.
To begin packing your stuff, you will need to gather the tools and materials to facilitate it. This will avoid those annoying trips to the convenience store or enlisting packers which can make the process more expensive.
Start by gathering your moving boxes. Ask your neighbors and friends, and family if they have any boxes you can use. Sites like Facebook Marketplace also often list boxes near you for free or for meager costs.
Once you’ve gathered your boxes, you will need packing tape to seal the boxes. You want to look for secure, high-quality tape that is thick enough to fill the boxes appropriately. Buy some markers to label your boxes, so you know exactly what is in which package.
Have some newspaper, bubble wrap, or towels handy to pack up the breakable items.
That’s it! It will also be handy to have a few duffle bags or tote bags for smaller items that don’t need to be packed in boxes.
Take Inventory
One of the biggest packing tips we can give you is to inventory the items you plan to keep packing for a move. A packing checklist can be beneficial to ensure all your stuff has successfully made it to the new house.
This is an excellent move as it ensures you’re organized through the process. Start by compiling a list of the main items you need to take.
You don’t need to get too micro here, but rather list things such as ‘clothes,’ ‘furniture,’ etc. You can then start to get more specific about the items to take.
When you’re getting specific, it may be helpful to go room by room. This is also helpful while unpacking, as you can unpack according to the room. It’s a great way to unload, as you will confine the unpacking mess to one room rather than spreading it all over your home!
Have A Personal Carry-On
If you’re wondering how to pack for a move, some advice we can give you is to have a personal carry-on. Yep, carry-ons aren’t just for flights!
Most of us require personal effects of some kind at all times. Whether that’s medication, toothbrushes, laptops, or chargers, you will need these items during the transitional phase of your move.
Some other items to pack include medical records, social security cards, or passports. These items are essential, and you should keep them close to you so that they are secure and don’t get lost.
You may want to pack your carry-on in a suitcase if you have a lot of stuff, or even a backpack if it will fit. You should carry this with you on the airplane if you’re moving by flight or in your car if you’re making a road trip.
This way, you will have the critical stuff handy while the rest of your items get transported with the movers.
Packing for a Move Has Never Been So Easy
Want your move to be smooth and seamless?
Well, the good news is that that is possible! However, to make life easier on yourself, you need to be packing for a move in the right way. Be sure to use the tips mentioned above to make this transition easier on yourself.
You’ve got this!
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