Moving can be a hectic, stressful time, during which it is important that things flow as smoothly as possible. One of the best ways to ensure a positive moving experience is to take the time to properly pack moving boxes. Whether relocating boxes from a home or apartment by truck, van, or car, or if you are shipping boxes for international transport, great care must be given to the manner in which you pack your boxes. Sometimes boxes are packed in order to be stored for an extended period of time, giving even greater importance to the care and expertise in which they are arranged. By properly packing boxes, you can ensure that your belongings will stay in good condition throughout transport or storage, save and maximize space, and make certain you can easily access your items when needed.
- Keep essentials and other important items that you will need separate. Put them in your vehicle last, in order to retrieve them first.
- Set a weight limit for packed boxes before you start your move, and pack according to your moving needs.
- Pack boxes in layers with the heaviest items at the bottom, lighter items at the top.
- Create an inventory list of your items before the move.
- Ensure your boxes will fully close, and create an airtight seal for boxes that will be stored.
- Pack similar items together. Never mix fragile items and stronger, durable items in one box.
- Place out of season items and boxes that contain rarely used items in the back of your moving van, truck, or car. These will be the last items unpacked and can be immediately placed in your choice of storage.
- Pack cleaning items last, and put them closest to the door or trunk of your vehicle, so that you will have easy access to them after arriving at your new place.
Plan your move ahead to ensure a seamless transition. You may find that by packing one room at a time, you not only make the packing experience easier, but the unpacking as well. Keep items that you will need close by until it is time to move, and then place them in the vehicle with you. By packing basic essentials, including clothing for several days, in a separate gym bag or suitcase you can avoid wasted time spent rummaging through boxes looking for a toothbrush or pair of socks once you arrive at your destination. If packing heavy items, such as books, opt for small boxes. Placing too many heavy items in a large box can mean difficulty later. This could result in boxes that burst open and spill contents or the boxes may become too heavy to transport comfortably.
- Keep pet supplies, bowls, and food separate and put them in the vehicle last, so you can retrieve them easily later.
- Color code boxes by room to ensure that you can easily identify them later. Use one color marker or colored stickers or label each box with the destined room.
- Do not pack important documents, jewelry, or money, but keep them with your person throughout the move.
- Compare the costs between self-moving and hiring a moving company.
- If using a professional, moving company, make certain they are registered.
- If you’re move was related to work or a new business opportunity, you may qualify for a tax deduction.
Packing boxes for storage is different than packing for relocation. When you relocate, your belonging are in boxes for a short period of time, and though you need to ensure things, such as fragile items are packed securely and safely, they won’t remain in a box for extended time periods. When storing items, you have additional concerns to take into consideration and other needs that must be addressed. Since boxes are exposed to elements for a longer period of time, you must ensure they are protected from pests, water, humidity, temperature fluctuations, and are ultimately placed in a secure environment. By taking the time to properly pack boxes for storage, you can rest assured your belongings will be in prime condition when needed.
- Choose the proper packing materials. Use packing peanuts, bubble wrap, or packing paper for fragile items.
- Do not wrap fragile items in newspaper for storage. You run the risk of the ink rubbing onto your items over time.
- When packing delicate items for storage, begin by placing a layer of bubble wrap or peanuts at the bottom of the box.
- Use packing peanuts to fill in empty spaces around items in a box.
- Use original boxes for items when possible. For example, it’s easier to store computer, television, or radio equipment in their original boxes, then to repack them.