While everyone has different things to pack, there are a few basic guidelines to follow, that can make your packing easier. These ideas will go a long way toward ensuring that you know how to pack for a move!
If you can unplug cords from your appliances and computers, do so. Coil them loosely and bind them, making sure to label which appliance they are for. If you cannot unplug the cords, coil them loosely and bind them so that they do not come unwound during the move.
Packing boxes tightly is the key. Loose space in packing boxes or cartons allows items to shift during transit, which may cause breakage or other damage. Book covers can get bent or torn, dishes can get cracked or broken, and fragile items can be punctured by the force of hitting a box side. If you cannot pack a box tightly with items to be shipped, fill up the extra space with a padding like newsprint, shredded paper, or clothing or blankets.
Although you may think that you will remember what has been packed where, by the time you arrive in your new space you will have forgotten. Trust us. Labeling clearly and concisely is a good idea. It helps if you label boxes by room (example: living room #4 of 9) and then have a list of what each box contains (example: Living room #4 contains DVD collection, Candle Sticks, 2 lampshades, silver collectable figurines.) It also helps to know how many boxes you have total, so when it comes time to sign-off on the move, you know you have all of your boxes.
Use your bedding until the day of the move, and make sure it goes in a box that is labeled “pack last”, so that it is one of the first things you see upon arrival at your destination. You will want to be able to get a good night’s rest in your new apartment or house without unpacking every box in search of your pillow.
Just like you need the right tool for the task, your choice of box is important during your move too. Wardrobe boxes allow hanging clothing to arrive as wrinkle-free as possible. Dish cartons are made for optimal security and space maximization when packing dishes, and linens boxes are made for securing folded clothing. Make sure that you secure your belongings by choosing the proper box. Minor Moving can provide you with more information about box choices.
