Packing 101: A Simple Guide to Packing Your Stuff for Moving

By Julie DeLong, A-1 Freeman Moving Group 

Packing Prep

As professional movers, we understand that packing for a move can be confusing and overwhelming. There are so many things you need to think about when you're packing up your things for the move. Even if it's not your first time, you might still forget something important! To help make packing easier for you, we'll go over all the things you need to think about. If this is your first time moving and you don't know where to begin, these tips will help guide you in the right direction.

First things first: gather your packing supplies. These should include cardboard boxes, permanent markers, and packing tape at a minimum. You may also want to purchase labels to place on the boxes, colored dots to help organize boxes according to room or person they belong to, or plastic tote bins for items that will go into storage. You'll also want to gather some bubble wrap, newspaper, or linens to wrap fragile items such as glasses and vases, so they're cushioned against breaking.

Once you've picked up everything you need or your moving company has delivered it, what should you pay attention to while packing? When packing up your stuff for the move, it's very important that you pay attention to how much weight is in each box because some moving companies have limits on how much weight they can carry. Plus, you don't want to overload a box and have it given way, possibly damaging, or destroying what's inside or injuring the person carrying the box.

What to Pack

Before you start packing your stuff for moving day, you should first make a list of everything that you need to pack. This will help keep you from forgetting anything important. It will also ensure that you have enough space in the car or truck to transport all your belongings. The most important thing on this list is any paperwork that might be needed for your new home and any documents that are time-sensitive or difficult to replace (like birth or marriage certificates). You should also include any medications or personal items that may need to be refrigerated during the move.

You should also think about what items are going to be difficult to pack and how you are going to pack them, so they don't break during transit. Some examples are dishes, glassware, pots and pans, books, framed pictures, art supplies, etcetera. When it comes down to it though, it's up to you! It's best if you pack these things before the rest of your belongings so you're not worried about them getting broken while unpacking. You can also have your professional movers pack these items, so you don't have to worry about them.

What Not to Pack

The last thing you want to do is pack unnecessary items. All this packing and unpacking can be very time-consuming, so make sure you're only packing the things that are necessary. Things like books, for example, take up a lot of room but if you're not taking them with you then there is no reason to pack them. There is also no need to pack things that are broken or that don't work anymore. If they aren't needed at your new home, why bother dragging them along?

Throw away broken, damaged, or unwanted items. If you have things that are in good condition, but you no longer want or use them, donate them, or have a yard sale. Sort through paperwork and throw away any papers that are outdated and no longer needed. Go over every inch of your home and be honest with yourself about whether it's worth paying to move each item.

Furniture can be some of the heaviest (and most expensive) things to move. Don't take any pieces of furniture with you that you intend to replace after the move.

Keeping Your Belongings Safe

One of the most important parts of packing for a move is keeping your belongings safe. You want to protect them from getting damaged or lost. Use bubble wrap or other material to wrap delicate items before packing them.

There are many ways you can pack up your things for a move. The easiest way is using boxes and packing tape. If you're using boxes, it's best to use cardboard ones with a flat bottom and strong handles on the side that will make carrying easier. If you use packing tape, be sure to put down a non-stick surface before starting so the tape doesn't stick to anything it shouldn't!

To ensure nothing gets lost, consider writing your name and new address on each box. This way, if anything should somehow get separated, it can still find its way back to you.

Packing Tips

Clothes should be left on hangers or neatly folded in the closet until the last minute, so they don't get wrinkled. Books are best packed before anything else, except for your current read so you can still enjoy it while traveling!

Keep fragile items packed together and label the boxes as such, so heavier boxes aren't stacked on top of them. Label and organize your boxes based on what room they belong in so it's easier to unpack and put things away in your new home.

Moving can be a stressful process. There are so many things to consider, like the logistics of moving day and where you're going to put all your stuff once you get there. It can be a lot of work to pack up all your stuff, and you might feel like the process is never going to end. But with these tips, the unmanageable becomes much easier. And, remember that if things get too overwhelming, talk to your moving company about how they can help.