One of the more demanding parts of moving is having to prepare and pack all your items. The main reason why this turns out to be a tiresome process is that people don’t prepare for it well enough. Truth be told, packing can be easy and not so time-consuming if you follow tips that’ll help you plan it and execute it more productively. The more thought you put into it and the more you do beforehand, the easier it’ll be later on. Finding the right packing supplies is one of the first things you should get to. We’ve come up with a guide that’ll help you do just that.
Planning is important
First thing’s first, you need to be honest with yourself and realistic when it comes to your expectations. Packing isn’t only about getting the right packing equipment and starting the process. Creating a timeline that you’ll easily be able to achieve is the right way to go. Writing it all down will help you get a better idea of what the upcoming period will look like. Of course, you should also be aware of the fact that not everything will go according to plan. You can always change or add to it as you go, being flexible is very important during relocation.
Create a checklist of your belongings
To know which packing supplies you’ll need, you first need to be sure of what you’ll need to pack. Create a list that’ll contain everything that you own first. This might sound a bit overwhelming. However, you need to start from the basics and work your way up. Create a list of different categories and then go more into detail until you’re content with how the list looks. Here are some ideas for potential categories:
Shop for equipment on time
No matter which direction you decide to go in with the packing materials, you should purchase them as soon as you possibly can. Although finding equipment to pack your items in shouldn’t be too hard, you never know which difficulties you might run into. It’s better to be safe than sorry. Starting on time will ensure that you have everything that you need ready and set for the beginning of your packing and moving experience.
Moving boxes are the most important packing supplies
Even though they sound a bit basic and simple, that’s actually why packing boxes are so great. Out of all the moving supplies that you’ll get for your move, boxes will come in handy the most. They’re also very easy to find and don’t cost a lot. Finding the ones that fit your needs should be hard. However, if you own some fragile items and you don’t want to risk breaking them, you might want to rethink your approach. Getting boxes that are a bit more durable or even plastic containers that have a bit more padding might be your best bet.
Other packing supplies that you’ll find useful
Other than the simple but effective moving boxes, you can also use some other supplies and materials for packing.
- Bubble pack or packing peanuts
Using a bubble pack or packing peanuts to offer support and cushioning is a great idea. Make sure to find the materials that aren’t too harmful to the environment, though. - Moving blankets
Moving blankets are more of a luxury than a necessity. However, if you want to go all out and purchase them, they’re useful and long-lasting. - Paper and tape are versatile packing tools
Most people don’t even consider paper and tape when they think of moving supplies. Precisely because of their versatility, they can be used in a great number of ways. - Moving truck
Choosing a good moving truck is just as important as choosing any of the supplies from this list. Look for the ones that have enough space and that are easy to unload.
Label, label, and label again
Even if it’s just with a simple marker or a pen, make sure to always label everything that you’re packing. Without this step, you’ll spend more time unpacking than you did packing. Although it’s an additional step, it’s not very time-consuming and you’ll be happy that you did it.
DIY packing equipment
Of course, there’s always the option of making your packing equipment. If you’re imaginative enough, anything can be packing material. Using items that you already have lying around your home, such as blankets or even trash bags is a great idea. Don’t forget that you can also utilize any extra room in your furniture to transport some smaller items.
Keep your items safe
To ensure the safety of all your items, you should find a spot to keep them during all the moving madness. You don’t want your valuable items just sitting in your home during the renovation process. A great way to do this is to organize self-storage. This way, you won’t need to worry and you’ll be able to access your belongings whenever needed.
Hire a moving company
Hiring movers to take care of the manual work that relocating entails is a must. You should make a list of all the things you need assistance with. However, movers aren’t there just for the heavy lifting. As we’ve learned from Master Moving Guide, you can also ask your movers about any doubts or inquiries that you might have.
Stay eco-friendly during your move
We must do our part in taking care of the planet, even during events such as this one. Looking for green organizing tips that you can apply to your case, no matter how seemingly insignificant, will make a difference. Focus on the things that you can control and you’ll do just fine.
Recycle or reuse the packing supplies once you’re done
A great way to be sustainable while finding great packing supplies is to either reuse, recycle, or give away anything that isn’t that great for the environment. If everyone did this, there wouldn’t be such a need for harmful materials in the market.