Moving to a new home can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to packing your possessions.
However, with a little bit of planning and preparation, you can make the process a lot easier and less stressful.
Of course, some people employ packers to do the work for them, and most removal companies will offer this service for an additional fee.
But if you’re looking to move home on a budget and save money then the DIY approach is the best option.
Here, I’ll give you some expert tips and hacks for packing your possessions when moving home, so you can ensure that everything arrives at your new home in one piece.
1. Start early
Start packing your possessions well in advance of your move. This will help you avoid feeling overwhelmed and reduce the stress of moving day.
It’s important to start the packing process as soon as possible rather than rushing it at the last minute, that way you can stay properly organised.
Begin by packing items you rarely use such as out-of-season clothing, books, and knick-knacks. These items can be time-consuming to pack so get them out of the way early.
2. Create a packing plan
Make a list of all the items you need to pack and create a packing plan. This will help you stay organised and ensure that you don’t forget anything.
It’ll mean that you have enough boxes and packing materials, and will help keep you more delicate items safe as they won’t be crushed at the bottom of boxes.
3. Gather packing supplies
Gather all the packing supplies you’ll need, such as boxes, bubble wrap, packing tape, and markers. Make sure you have enough supplies to pack everything.
It’s a good idea to keep old newspapers in the run up to your move as they’re very useful for packing glassware.
4. Pack room by room
Pack room by room, and label each box with the name of the room it belongs to.
This will help you and your movers know where each box should go when it arrives at your new home.
It saves a lot of time when it comes to the movers unloading at your new home and you getting organised.
5. Take an inventory
Keep a list of all the items you have packed, and mark off each item as it arrives in your new home.
This will help you keep track of your possessions and ensure nothing is lost during the move.
It’s a good idea to great a list for individual boxes as well, especially those containing items you want to access quickly once you’ve moved.
6. Use clothing as padding
Use your clothes to pad fragile items, such as dishes and glassware. This will save you money on bubble wrap and reduce the amount of waste you generate.
Otherwise, use sturdy boxes in different sizes, packing paper, bubble wrap, and packing tape. This will ensure your items are protected during the move.
7. Pack heavy items in small boxes
Pack heavy items, such as books and tools, in smaller boxes. This will make them easier to carry and prevent them from becoming too heavy.
Pack heavier items like books, kitchen appliances, and small furniture at the bottom of the box, and lighter items on top. This will ensure the box is stable and will not tip over.
8. Pack valuables separately
Pack valuable items, such as jewellery and important documents, separately and keep them with you during the move.
This will ensure that they don’t get lost or damaged during the move.
Be sure not to leave them in your car though as they could be goldmine for an opportunist thief.
9. Use vacuum seal bags
Use vacuum seal bags to pack soft items, such as bedding and towels. This will save space and protect your items from moisture and dust.
This is also a good idea if you’re planning to put these items straight in the loft at your new home.
This will save you time and help you stay more organised.
10. Wrap fragile items carefully
Wrap fragile items, such as plates and glassware, in bubble wrap or newspaper and secure them with packing tape.
Place these items in the centre of the box and surround them with packing material, such as towels or clothing, for extra protection.
You can also pick up discarded glass boxes at your local supermarket or wine emporium for free.
11. Use suitcases for clothing
Use suitcases to pack your clothing instead of boxes. This will make it easier to transport your clothes and save space in your moving truck.
There’s no point moving empty suitcases when they can be put to good use during the move.
12. Disassemble furniture
Disassemble furniture, such as beds and desks, before moving it.
This will make it easier to transport and prevent damage during the move.
Don’t forget to label the screws and hardware and keep them in a labelled bag to ensure that you can easily reassemble your furniture when you arrive at your new home.
Some removal companies will do all this for you, so best to check when booking the service.
13. Use plastic Wrap for Furniture
Use plastic wrap to protect your furniture during the move.
Wrap the legs of your furniture in plastic wrap to prevent scratches on your floors and walls, and wrap sofas and chairs in plastic to protect them from dirt and moisture.
14. Don’t overpack boxes
Avoid overpacking boxes, as this can cause them to become too heavy and difficult to carry.
Make sure you can lift a box with ease and that the contents are secure.
Use study plastic crates to transport heavier items that are likely to break the boxes.
15. Hire professional packers
Consider hiring professional packers to help organise your possessions.
Professional packers have the experience to safely pack and transport your items, reducing the risk of damage and making your move a lot less stressful.
This will add an additional cost to you move though, so if you’re moving on a budget it might not be an option.
16. Declutter
Packing your home ready for your move is the ideal time to get rid of unwanted items.
Think of moving as a fresh start and dump all the items you’ve had stored in your loft for years but never used.
You can also clear old and out-of-date food from your cupboards, and get rid of clothes you know you’re never going to wear again.
Conclusion
In conclusion, packing your possessions when moving home can be a complex and time-consuming task, but with these tips and hacks, you can make the process a lot easier and less stressful.
Start early, gather your supplies, and stay organized, and you’ll be well on your way to a successful move.
