Packing for a Move: The Basics

Moving house can be a stressful time, and there is plenty to remember and consider already. Packing your belongings may be the least of your worries, and it can be tempting to throw it all in boxes and deal with it later. However, this can lead to frustration, confusion and even lost or broken items. Taking the time to pack properly can help unpacking go more smoothly, and you will thank your past self that you spent a little longer on it! From packing materials to labelling boxes, here are a couple of the basics to help get you started and get your move moving.

Storage

It can help to have a separate area in which to store your belongings that are too large for boxes, or in which to put the boxes once they are packed. Just a quick search for storage near me will help you find local storage units that you can rent to help you out. There are different sizing options to choose from, as well as extras such as 24-hour access and climate control. Self-storage units are a great way to clear some space in your home whilst securely storing your belongings until you are ready to retrieve them. It is also a really useful option if you are not using a removal company, as you can use your storage unit at your leisure, rather than having to move everything in one go.

Packing materials

When it comes to what you should actually use to pack, there are numerous options available. If you choose to use cardboard boxes, which is the most common choice, make sure they are sturdy in order to avoid them breaking or tearing, and therefore causing damage. Boxes can then be flattened and reused or recycled. Alternatives include collapsible crates or plastic boxes, which can be very versatile and can be used as storage inside your new home. These tend to last a lot longer than the cardboard options and look better when used as home storage too. They may, however, be more expensive than cardboard boxes, and not come in as many sizes, so it is important to consider your options and figure out what will work best for you.

Organization

This is the big one; how do you organize your packing? There are lots of different ways you can do this, and you may have a system that already works for you, or you may need to experiment. If items are going into storage or will be boxed up for a long time, it is important to clean them before you pack them. This is beneficial in many ways, such as maintaining the quality of the items and helping to prevent pests from finding their way into your boxes! Common methods of organizing include room by room, or by type of item. For example, you could pack all your kitchen equipment in one box, bathroom in another and so on; or you could put all books in one box, all ornaments in another etc. This will entirely depend on how much you have to pack, and how many belongings you have.