Packing for an upcoming move can be stressful. Taking a bit of time to organize yourself helps make the process faster and easier. This guide from Cheap Movers Brooklyn ((347) 407-8987) will help you stay organized, have less stress, and pack faster.
1. Declutter First
It is better to sort each room and declutter it before packing. Make time for a moving sale or donate items that you no longer want or need. Having less to pack also cuts down on packing time.
The idea is to not take things with you to a new location that you don’t use now.
2. Gather Packing Materials
Once you have your move-in date, start gathering sturdy boxes, paper/bubble wrap to protect fragile pieces and plenty of tape. You’ll also need to pick up a few permanent markers for labeling boxes. It is often suggested to purchase brand new boxes to pack items in, but this can be costly.
Ask friends and family for sturdy boxes first. Then, contact local retailers and check every box before you leave with them. It is ideal to check the corners and folds for signs of pests or insects. Some local resale groups or classified ads may also be a good source for free packing materials. Just make sure to inspect the items before taking them home so that unwanted guests do not move with you.
3. Create Packing Checklists
Checklists are one of the best ways to stay organized and pack your home faster. It is best to use a notebook and create a list for each room of the house. Start with the top floor and work your way down.
Checklists should include:
- Room name
- Group of items in a box
- Who the room belongs to
- Label clothes by season
- List specialty or important items
Before closing up a box, double check to make sure everything listed on the box and checklist is present. Also, make sure that the box is labeled before sealing it.
Double check every list before leaving a room to ensure that nothing is missed.
Create a separate list for items that you will need right up until you walk out the door for the last time. This may seem like a lot of lists, but it does save a lot of time and frustration.
4. Use as Many Original Item Boxes as Possible
There is a reason that it’s a good idea to keep the original packaging for some items in your home like televisions, small appliances, and electronics. It is much easier to package them for moving in the package they initially came in. It also helps the product be easier to identify when unpacking.
If you use a box for an item that does not contain that original item, make sure the product name or photo is covered. Write the items that are in the box on the covered area.
Closing Thoughts
Packing and moving is a process. It can be much quicker when you are organized and complete one room at a time. Book a moving truck and helpers as far in advance as possible and confirm at least a few days in advance.