We've all been there — whether it was a long-distance relocation or just hopping to the next neighborhood, moving can be a real hassle. But, as they say, change is the only constant. So, brace yourself for the sea of cardboard and packing tape once more. But fear not! This time, let's make it smoother with handy tips on packing and moving. Our moving checklist not only lays out all the tasks but also tells you the perfect timing for each, keeping that stress level in check.
A key piece of advice on packing to move is to kickstart the process well in advance. This approach offers a smoother, less stressful experience, allowing you the luxury of time to strategize your packing and moving endeavors.
Initiating your moving preparations ahead of time enables you to set achievable milestones. For instance, you might aim to pack a single box each day or methodically tackle one room each week. This early start provides the flexibility to adapt to unexpected changes, such as rescheduled moving dates, unavailability of movers, or the need for additional storage space. It grants you the capacity to acquire extra packing supplies, make alternative arrangements with new moving services, and adjust your plans as needed. When the moving day finally rolls around, you'll have a bunch of stuff already prepped, making your life a whole lot less chaotic.
Before we dive into some packing moving tips and tricks, let's explore some easy packing hacks for moving that will set you on the right path.
Just the thought of everything involved in moving might make you feel a bit overwhelmed, right? It's a big job but start by deciding whether you want to hire a moving company or go the DIY route with a rental truck. Are you up for a DIY move, or do you think professional assistance is a must?
We recommend collecting at least three quotes from different companies. The sooner you get this sorted, the quicker you can move on to other tasks. Our recommendation? Start researching moving companies around eight weeks before your move, get quotes, and secure their services at least seven weeks before the big day. If you're leaning towards hiring movers in Chicago, check out Move4U’s trustworthy moving services.
Having a list is essential to steer you through the process leading up to moving day. Whenever new tasks pop up, jot them down on the list. Staying organized is your secret weapon against the stress of moving. Your to-do list will depend on your unique situation, but typically, you'll need to handle things like transferring or canceling utilities at your old place and setting them up at your new home. If you need new healthcare providers, don't forget to move your medical records. Got pets? Gather up your furry friend's vet records. If you've got kids changing school districts, notify the current school and find one in your new area.
Here's a sneak peek at what you might have to deal with for your move:
We also recommend checking our apartment moving checklist to figure out what to buy before a move.
While you typically won't find specialty boxes for free, some packing supplies and equipment are well worth the investment, especially for delicate items like mirrors, TVs, and glassware. Companies such as U-Haul offer specialized boxes designed to safeguard these items, some even equipped with built-in dividers for glassware. If you're extra cautious, you can hire movers solely for packing these fragile items. If you're planning to rent a moving truck, consider renting equipment that simplifies the loading, securing, and unloading of your belongings. This includes handy tools like hand trucks, furniture dollies, ratchet straps, furniture pads, and lifting straps. Vacuum-sealed bags are excellent for optimizing space, particularly for winter gear and bedding. Don't forget to keep a box cutter within reach to open boxes when the time comes to unpack.
Here's a little-known fact: some items are off-limits for moving companies. This includes flammable liquids, aerosol cans, perishable foods, and, in some cases, even plants and pets. If you've hired a moving company, inquire about their list of restricted items. Plan to either dispose of these items before moving or make arrangements to transport them yourself. It's essential to note that certain items can't be discarded with your regular trash. Contact your local government, landfill, or waste management company for guidance on disposing of hazardous materials.
Let's be real — moving can be a hassle, but a little decluttering magic can make it a breeze. Here are some tips for moving to make it happen:
Wrangling all your belongings into boxes can feel like an uphill battle. Lighten the load by decluttering like a champ before you even start packing. Before you touch a single box, go on a mission to ruthlessly purge any unused or unnecessary items. The less you pack, the less you'll need to move, unpack, and deal with. Plus, you'll step into your new digs with a clean slate and a lot less stuff weighing you down.
Remember, the movers won't transport perishable food items. Challenge yourself to finish up as much of your existing food as possible before moving day. Get creative with recipes and see how much you can use. If you have unopened, unexpired food left, consider donating it to a local food bank — you'll do some good while reducing waste.
The night before the big move, gather your everyday must-haves. This bag, much like packing for a weekend getaway, should contain items you'll require immediately upon arrival. Tuck them away in a bag or suitcase that you'll keep close at hand in the car, truck cab, or plane. It's a smart move because, if the unthinkable happens and the moving truck goes on a detour, at least you'll have your moving essentials right there with you. Here's what to pack when moving:
Having this essentials bag readily available will spare you the hassle of rummaging through boxes to find your toothpaste or phone charger on a moving day. It ensures a more comfortable and organized start in your new living space.
Take it step by step, room by room. Don't forget to open every closet, cabinet, and even those sneaky drawers. Get a grip on what you've got and make a list of things that can hit the road. While you're at it, evaluate if any furniture deserves a break-up before the big move.
It’s time to tackle those overstuffed closets. If it's too snug, out of style, or hasn't seen the light of day in a year, it's time to part ways. This rule applies not only to your closet but also to your kids' closets, linen hideaways, and bathroom shelves. Channel your inner Marie Kondo and ask yourself a vital question: «Would I actually spend money on this if I didn't already have it?» If the answer's a firm «no», it's probably time to bid it farewell.
For larger items like furniture and rugs that you plan to donate, set up a pickup schedule ahead of time with your chosen organization. No need to stress about hauling it yourself. Check out local charities that offer pickup services, so your donations find a new home without breaking a sweat.
For those items you can't quite part with yet but aren't sure about, consider a short-term storage solution. You can revisit the decision later with a fresh perspective.
Cleaning up spaces like garages, basements, and attics can be time-consuming. Why not call in the pros? Junk removal companies can handle it all, from disposal to charitable donations. While they take care of the heavy lifting (literally), you can focus on other moving tasks without breaking a sweat.
Besides being a significant endeavor, moving can also put a dent in your wallet. These tips for moving can help you keep your moving costs in check:
Collect estimates from at least three different moving companies. This not only helps you find the best price but also opens the door for potential negotiations. Some companies may be willing to lower their estimate to secure your business.
The best method for packing to move is the one that aligns with your specific needs and budget. Compare the costs of hiring moving companies with renting a moving truck or using portable moving containers. This comparison can pinpoint the most cost-effective choice for your situation.
Score complimentary packing materials by reaching out to local retailers or simply asking friends and family. Many times, you'll find people willing to part with spare boxes and supplies they no longer need.
If your moving timeline has some flexibility, consider a mid-week or mid-month move. These times typically offer more affordable rates. Moving during weekends or at the beginning or end of the month tends to be pricier due to higher demand.
When it comes to moving, you've got choices when it comes to boxes and bins. Let's break them down so you can decide what suits your next house move best.
Pros: Often free (check Facebook Marketplace, Buy Nothing, or local grocery stores).
Cons: Not reusable, might require some effort to find, not always the right size or sturdiness.
Pros: Sturdy, can be used for storage or future moves.
Cons: Upfront cost to buy them, need space to store them between moves.
Pros: Sturdy, delivered and picked up for you.
Cons: Can be costly to rent, need to pack and move according to the company's schedule.
When it comes to labeling moving boxes, there are different approaches: writing everything inside the box directly on it, labeling by room (e.g., «Kitchen»), or using a numbering and lettering system (e.g., «K1»). According to our experience, the numbering and lettering system, with an itemized list on your phone, works best. Here's why:
Certain pieces of furniture, like bookshelves and bed frames, may require disassembly before the move. To keep everything organized, ensure you have a plan for the screws and tools needed for reassembly. You can either place these small pieces in a resealable plastic bag and attach it to the furniture using masking tape. Alternatively, label the bag with a permanent marker and pack it into a designated box. This way, you'll have all the necessary hardware and tools in one place for each piece of furniture. You can also entrust disassembly & reassembly of furniture to professionals.
Before you start your packing journey, prepare a bag filled with essential packing supplies you'll need throughout the process. This bag will serve as your command center during packing and moving. It's also a great place to ensure packing tape, tape guns, reusable bags, plastic bags, newspaper or wrapping paper, and elastic bands are within easy reach.
A pro tip: Keep this bag accessible until the very last minute, as there's always something that requires taping or last-minute packing.
Here's a clever packing technique for moving: instead of just boxing up your clothes separately, use them to assist in other aspects of your packing. Clothes, as well as linens and towels, can be used to wrap fragile items, add lightweight padding to heavy boxes, and fill awkward spaces. When you begin packing, have some clothes ready to help wrap items and fill boxes. You'll be amazed at how much of your closet you've packed while taking care of the rest of your house!
Make a detailed list of your valuable electronics, including your TV and computer. If you're hiring a moving company, consider taking photos of your computer before packing it. These photos can be crucial in case your computer sustains damage during transit, and you need to file a claim.
For valuable electronic devices like your computer, collect all the product manuals and store them in a secure bag. It's also a good practice to label the cords for easy reassembly. If you have the original packaging, use it for added protection. As a precaution, back up your computer's hard drive before the move. This ensures that your data is safe, even if the computer experiences any damage during transit.
Wires and connections can be confusing to reassemble. Before unplugging your TV, take a clear picture of the back of it. This visual reference will help you set it up correctly at your new place.
Ideally, TVs should be transported in their original boxes with Styrofoam packing. If you don't have the original box, you can wrap the TV in a moving blanket to provide adequate padding during transit. Ensure the TV is propped up, not laid flat, in the moving truck. You can secure it between mattresses or other soft furniture items to keep it upright.
Light bulbs are prone to breakage during a move. To prevent this, remove the light bulbs from your lamps and use bubble wrap to protect them. Place the wrapped bulbs in a labeled box.
For large items like furniture, consider disassembling them as much as possible before the move. Remove fixtures, accessories, and detachable parts. Some furniture may have removable legs or backs. For couches, take off cushions and pillows, packing them in large boxes or garbage bags. Professional movers might shrink-wrap upholstered furniture for added protection during transit.
Packing up a bedroom for a move can be quite a puzzle since you've got a mix of big and small stuff to deal with. In your bedroom, you've got hefty items like bed frames, dressers, side tables, and mattresses. But don't forget about the smaller things — clothes, decorations, bedding, curtains — they all need to be packed up too. When you're gearing up for a move, tackling the bedroom early is a smart move. Here are some handy tips on how to pack for moving:
Packing your kitchen necessitates careful attention due to its diverse assortment of items. The kitchen, in particular, can be a packing puzzle with all its nooks and crannies. So, here are some clever kitchen packing tricks to make your move smoother.
Getting your dining room ready for a move takes some extra care, especially when you've got delicate items like china, crystal, flatware, and dining room furniture in the mix. Protecting these treasures is paramount during transit.
Getting your bathroom ready for a move takes some thoughtful organization. As your bathroom items are some of the last you'll pack, it's crucial to plan ahead.
The big day is finally here! If you've been diligently checking off your moving checklist, today should be a breeze. But there are a few important things to remember:
If your schedule allows, consider keeping a full day (or at least half a day) free before your move. This day serves as a cushion to handle any last-minute tasks and reduce stress. By this point, you should aim to have most of your packing done. Tasks for this day might include:
The goal is to avoid the frantic rush of packing when the movers arrive. Giving yourself this buffer day ensures you're well-prepared for your house move. If possible, consider adding an extra day or two on the other side of your move to facilitate the unpacking process.
Unpacking can be as strategic as packing. Here's how to pack when you are moving and tackle it effectively:
Ideally, set aside a full day or even a couple of days exclusively for effective unpacking. If you don't have that luxury, prioritization becomes even more crucial.
Remember that bag you packed with immediate necessities? Unpack it first and start arranging the items you need right away. This might involve setting up your bed or placing perishable items in the fridge. Ensuring you have these essentials readily available is key to a smooth transition.
Resist the temptation to dive into fun decor or live out of boxes indefinitely. Instead, adopt a room-by-room approach, starting with the most critical spaces: the bathroom and the kitchen. These rooms are essential for your daily routine and functionality in your new home. If time permits, fully unpack these rooms. If not, consult your itemized list on your phone to identify which boxes require immediate attention. It's more satisfying to locate your plates and shampoo than to have your closet fully organized or pictures hung on the wall.
Prioritization Order Recap:
By following this order, you ensure that your everyday necessities are accessible first, making the transition to your new space smoother and more comfortable.
If you're moving into a rental property, take proactive steps to protect yourself. Before you start unpacking, conduct a thorough walkthrough of the space. While ideally, your landlord should join you for this inspection, it's wise to document any existing damage independently. Follow these steps:
While issues with landlords are relatively rare, having these photos can provide peace of mind and protect your interests.
Moving doesn't have to be the daunting task it often appears to be. This moving checklist is your secret weapon to tackle every aspect of your move and have your new home set up just the way you want it when moving day arrives. For a wealth of best packing tips for moving and guidance, be sure to explore our other articles on moving and packing. And if you're in the Chicago area, consider opting for Move4U moving services to make your move even smoother and stress-free. Your hassle-free move is just a click away!
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