Moving to a new home can be exciting. It can also be stressful, especially packing for a move. Self-packing is a great way to save money but will require some leg work. We put together twenty tips on how to pack for a move. Our packing checklist will help you save time, money, and help get the job done efficiently. You should also check out this article “is self-packing for a move worth it.”
1.Get rid of stuff
The first step that you should take is decluttering your home. Start with the larger items and work your way down. Go room by room and figure out what you need and what you can live without. Lightening your load will not only help with organizing it will help save money. The less you have, the less expensive your move will cost.
Once you’ve narrowed down what you’re getting rid of start creating categories: donate, sell, and trash. You can hold a garage sale or post the unwanted items on Craig’s list. For the things you’re giving away, you can use charities that will pick them up for free. Check out this article on how to pack clothes for a move.
2. Set aside items you’ll need
When you arrive at your new home you’ll want easy access to those items that you need right away. Whether you’re loading a truck yourself or hiring a mover make sure those items are loaded last. An example would be clothes, dishes, coffee pot, etc.
3. Know what items movers won’t move
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Aerosol Cans
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Ammunition
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Batteries
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Charcoal, kerosene, lighter fluid and propane
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Chemicals and solvents
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Cleaning chemicals and solvents
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Fertilizer
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Firearms
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Fire extinguishers
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Fireworks
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Fuel/gasoline/oil
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Matches
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Nail polish and remover
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Oxygen
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Paints, varnishes and paint thinners
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Perishable food
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Pesticides
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Plants
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Pool chemicals
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Propane tanks
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Scuba tanks
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Weed killer
4. The first items you should pack
Start packing items in the areas that you least use in your home. Then you can work your way to more commonly used rooms, like your kitchen and bathroom. These essential tips on how to pack for a move will help relieve stress.
5.Pack one room at a time
Packing for a move is already stressful. By finishing one place at a time it will help you organize yourself and minimize clutter. Start in the rooms that you use the least and work your way around the house.
6.Packing for a move – Dishes
Dishes are considered fragile and deserve proper care. Bubble wrap and packing paper are essential. Make sure to wrap each plate individually. You can purchase dish packs from Home Depot, Uhual or Lowes. Dish packs will allow you to stack your plates in the box to avoid damage.
7.Packing for a move – Liquids
To prevent leaks, remove the lid and cover the opening with plastic wrap. It may be a tedious task, but worth it. You don’t want liquids spilling all over your household goods.
8. Packing for a move – Clothes
Wardrobe boxes are suggested for packing clothes for a move. They cost $10-$20 each and work great for clothes on hangers and garments. We all know that moving is an expensive luxury, so if you’re on a budget, you can use trash bags. Put the bags around your clothes while they’re still on hangers. Tie the tip while leaving the rod sticking out.
9.Towels and clothes make excellent packing material
Towels, clothes, and linens can be used to fill empty spaces in the box. It’s a great method for any fragile items such as dishes and pictures. This is how to pack for a move.
10.Create an inventory list
Before you begin packing for a move, document what it is you’re moving. You can create a video and take photos (if you’re hiring a mover). Write down any serial numbers or marks that will help identify the item. Use a color coding system. Assign colors for each room. It will help make it easier for you to identify things you need upon arrival.
11.Leave clothes and items in dressers
Whether you’re moving or hiring a professional, you should leave your items in the chests. There’s no need to take them out and pack them.
12.Separate items you will need the first week
Think about what things you will need the first week. Pack and label those boxes separately from the others. For example, you’ll probably need toilet paper, towels, shower curtain, and soap. Diggin through boxes to find items required can be a daunting task. Packing for a move should’nt be so stressful.
13.Downsize as you go
We’re all guilty of having to much stuff. A move is a great time to start getting rid of things you don’t need. If you haven’t used it in 6 months or more chances are you won’t so it has to go. The less you have, the easier the moving process will be. Packing for a move can be a lot for anyone, so try and make your life easier.
14.When to hire a mover
If you’re hiring a mover, advanced notice is required, especially in peak season months. The peak season for the moving industry is from May to September and eight weeks is suitable. Whereas in off moving seas you should book your date at least two weeks in advance. Here are some tips on how to save money on a long-distance move.
15.Where to buy packing material
You can purchase packing material from Home Depot, Lowes, Walmart, Uhual, or Amazon. You can also purchase packing material directly from our website.
16. How to find a quality mover
Google is an excellent tool for checking reviews. However, it shouldn’t be your only method. Long distance and international movers require specific licensing. You can visit the DOT SAFER website to find out company history, fleet size, and complaint history. Checking out a company is something that shouldn’t be overlooked. Check out this article on the average cost to move a 3 bedroom house.
17. Packing a moving truck
The first thing you should do is load the most substantial items first. Items such as your appliances and bulky furniture should always go in first. You should designate two people to load while the rest carry out the furniture. By loading the more significant items first, it will help maximize space and keep the truck from dragging. You should then pack your essentials at the back of the truck. It will help you quickly locate items you need quicker.
19.Household Items that service as packing materials
Here is a list of everyday household items that can serve as packing material. You can use towels, blankets, clothes, suitcases, chests, laundry bins, trash bags, backpacks, and more. It’s a great way to save money and consolidate.
18.When to start packing for a move
As we all know moving is stressful. Waiting for the last minute to begin packing can get you in a jam. Rather than waiting for the last minute to pack for your move, start 3 months in advance. You can start by packing items that you don’t use often. It’s a good start and will help you down the road.
- The Bottom Line ===================
Don’t add stress to your plate. Packing is a task, but it doesn’t have to be stressful. Follow the easy tips we provided or feel free to contact us if you have any questions.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the average I will spend on a move?
The average cost for an international move is $2000 to $6000. You can reduce your moving cost by downsizing and or self-packing.
What’s the best time of year to move overseas?
The peak moving season is between May and August. You will find it more affordable to move during the winter months.
What’s the best time of year to move overseas?
The peak moving season is between May and August. You will find it more affordable to move during the winter months.
Is self-packing worth it?
The pros of self-packing are you will reduce your moving cost. However, it can be time-consuming and labor-intensive. You will still need to buy packing material that can set you back and affect your insurance options.
Should I purchase moving insurance?
Yes, it would help if you considered purchasing moving insurance.
How much does a cross-border move cost?
A cross-border move to Canada or Mexico can cost $1500 to $7,500. Your move size is the most significant cost factor.
How do I choose an international moving company?
You should start by checking the FMC website. You can also ask for references and study reviews. A mover must know the destination country you’re moving to.
What are add-on services?
If you have an expensive painting, furniture, or a piano, you can have the company crate them.
How many moving estimates should I get?
You should only get up to three moving quotes. Getting more than three quotes can cause confusion and a wrong decision.
What happens if something gets damaged?
You can file a claim for the declared value if you have insurance, but there may be a deductible. You will get 60 cents per pound per article if you don’t have insurance. Some international movers have different insurance policies, so it’s best to speak directly to the company of your choice.
How long will my move take?
The typical transit time for ocean freight can be 12 to 20 days. Airfreight will be closer to 7 to 12 days. If you move door to door, the transit time will be longer. It’s best to speak with the moving company regarding transit times.
Where can I buy packing supplies?
You can buy boxes online or at any local Home Depot, Walmart, or Uhaul.
What is my storage option?
Most international moving companies offer storage options at the origin or destination location. Storage costs average from 60 cents to $1 per cubic foot. It’s best to speak with your choice of an international moving company about the details of their storage.
How to secure a visa when moving overseas?
There are a few things to remember when securing a visa for travel overseas. The first is to ensure that you have all the necessary documentation. It includes your passport, birth certificate, and any other relevant paperwork. Next, you must contact the consulate or embassy of the country you plan to visit. They will help you with the visa application process and provide you with any specific requirements that need to be met.
Know More Here: How to save money when moving abroad
Finally, preparing for an interview with consulate staff is essential. It’s your chance to show them you’re a serious traveler and have everything in order. Be sure to dress professionally and bring all required documents with you. Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to securing a visa for travel overseas. With the proper preparation, it can be a relatively straightforward process. Good luck! you