Proper packing is one key to a successful household move. Packing can be an art form. Here are some common packing mistakes and how to avoid them.
1. Starting Too Late
Procrastination is a part of human nature. However, if you wait too long to begin packing, you may have to rush at the end and make mistakes. Packing almost always takes longer than expected, so start packing as soon as possible.
2. Failing to Plan
Packing is a project. Projects go more smoothly if you develop a plan before just diving in. Decide which rooms you’ll pack up first and which rooms and items you’ll leave for last. You’ll also plan what to do to prepare each room for packing.
Also, decide what necessities you’ll need to pack separately and keep that essentials box with you in your car.
3. Inadequately Decluttering
Chances are, you have many items in your home that you haven’t used for years and don’t plan to use. Moving costs are based on the amount of stuff you have, regardless of whether the mover charges by weight, volume, or time required. So you can save money by removing those items you never use.
As soon as you start thinking about moving, start sorting. Put items in four piles: to keep, to discard, to sell, and to give away. You can sell items in a yard sale or online marketplaces like Craigslist or Facebook. Local charities also will take many of your unwanted items.
4. Lacking Supplies
Effective packing requires the right moving supplies. You’ll need the following:
- A collection of quality boxes. You’ll need plenty of each size. Your mover might provide moving cartons, or you can buy some from home goods stores. Avoid the temptation to use containers that weren’t made for moving.
- Packing tape. Have a dispenser for each family member that is helping to pack.
- Packing materials. You’ll need packing materials, such as packing paper and bubble wrap, in the boxes to protect your items. Packing paper is better than a newspaper because the ink can transfer to your belongings.
- Permanent markers. You’ll want to write the room destination for each box on all sides.
5. Overstuffing the Boxes
Before you start stuffing the box, find its capacity. Then be sure to keep your packing within that capacity. Putting too much in the box will break and spill your stuff on the floor. Remember that small cartons are better for packing heavy items, and no packed box should weigh more than 50 pounds.
6. Striving for Perfectionism
Doing an excellent job of packing is essential. However, perfection is probably not achievable. You’ve done enough as long as you’ve wrapped each item and packed it properly in a solid moving box. Avoid adding stress by demanding perfection from yourself or others helping you pack.
7. Disregarding Professional Packing Help
When you get estimates, it’s worth asking the movers how much they’d charge for packing your household. Often the cost is less than you expect, and having the professionals pack takes much of the pressure off you.
Pack It up and Move It Out
If you’re moving, contact us. We can help you pack or help you do it yourself. We do everything to ensure your move goes smoothly.