Packing tips for moving house

Moving to a new house can be an exciting yet challenging endeavour. Among the numerous tasks involved, packing is often one of the most time-consuming and daunting. However, with some planning, organization, and the right techniques, you can make the packing process more efficient and ensure a smooth move to your new home. This article provides all the practical tips you need to pack effectively and reduce the stress associated with moving.

Start early

Procrastination is your worst enemy when it comes to packing. Begin the process well in advance, ideally several weeks before your moving day. This allows you ample time to sort through your belongings, donate or sell anything you no longer need, and pack without rushing.

Gather packing materials

Collect all the necessary packing supplies beforehand to avoid interruptions during the packing process. Stock up on sturdy moving boxes in various sizes, packing tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, markers, and labels. Consider using color-coded labels or a clear naming system to identify boxes for specific rooms or types of content.

You may not need to buy boxes if you begin collecting them in good time in advance. Ask friends and neighbours if they are able to put aside any good sturdy boxes too. You can also try Freecycle groups to see if others locally are giving away boxes following their own house moves.

Declutter

Moving provides an excellent opportunity to declutter your belongings. Sort through each item, and decide whether to keep, donate, sell, or discard it. Letting go of unnecessary possessions not only reduces the number of items to pack but also helps create a fresh start in your new home. Discarding items doesn't have to mean waste however, so donate items to charity shops, or use local Freecycle groups to find suitable homes for items you don't want to take with you.

Packing

Focus packing room by room

Developing a packing plan will keep you organised throughout the process. Work around your property room by room packing as much as you can.

Start with rooms that are used less frequently, such as the attic or basement, and gradually move to more frequently used areas. Similarly begin with items that are rarely used, such as seasonal decorations or kitchen gadgets.

Carefully wrap fragile items like glass or porcelain in bubble wrap or tissue paper and secure them in boxes with lots of cushioning. Label each box with its contents (including "FRAGILE" if glass etc.) and the room it belongs to, for easy identification during unpacking.

Ensure all box bases are securely constructed

Nobody wants to break anything when moving house. Boxes can come under a lot of strain during a move. Consider the weight of boxes as you are packing, and don't overload them. Add additional tape or discard boxes that don't look up to the job. Also always holding boxes underneath to avoid their content spilling out during the move.

Keep nuts, bolts and screws together

When dismantling items such as beds, tables and drawers, be sure to put all screws, nuts or bolts in a sealed plastic bag. Tape the bag to the item, or somewhere you will remember.

Maximize space

Make good use of the space in boxes to minimise the number of boxes required. Place heavier items at the bottom and lighter ones on top. Fill any gaps with soft items like towels or clothing to prevent shifting during transport. Use suitcases, baskets, and bins to pack items that don't fit neatly into boxes.

Pack and mark essential items boxes

Pack essential items you'll need immediately upon arrival at your new home in dedicated boxes and mark these clearly. This may include toiletries, a change of clothes, bedding, important documents, and basic kitchen supplies. Keep this box easily accessible to avoid searching through multiple boxes after a tiring day.

Create an inventory

Clearly label each box with the contents and the room it belongs to. Additionally, maintain an inventory list of all critical packed boxes, including a general description of their contents. This will help you keep track of your belongings during transit and simplify the unpacking process.

Consider professional assistance

Consider hiring professional movers. They can provide packing services to save you the effort and ensure that your belongings are packed securely and efficiently. Professional movers generally offer insurance coverage for added peace of mind.

We obvious recommend you find a reputable Man and Van through FindAManAndVan.co.uk, but seriously, consider finding some large or small who can assist you in making sure your move goes smoothly.

Conclusion

Moving house doesn't have to be overwhelming. By following these packing tips, you can streamline the process and make your move less stressful. Remember to start early, declutter, pack methodically, label boxes clearly, and consider professional support. With proper planning, your transition to a new home can be a smooth experience.

Best of luck on your move day!