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Packing is one of the most tiresome parts of moving into a new house. Knowing how to pack properly, and choosing the right packing boxes and containers, will help ease the stress.
Having to pack up an entire house can feel overwhelming. However, the more organised you are, the more time and energy you’ll save. Consider creating a packing checklist to make sure you move house as efficiently as possible.
Then follow our five great packing tips to feel less stressed and have an easier time when it comes to unpacking.
1. Pack one room at a time
You’ll feel more organised packing each room systematically. Pack least-used items first. When unpacking, leave these boxes for another day if you run out of time. Clearly label boxes, for example: ‘Tom’s soft toys’. You could also make a spreadsheet detailing items for each room or box so you know where everything is, or use a moving-house app.
2. Find cheap moving boxes
To find the cheapest cardboard boxes, get quotes from several moving companies. These companies also specialise in clever packing ideas that can help you save valuable time. Instead of wrapping glasses in newspaper, for example, pop them into a crockery box with a handy cardboard divider. Wardrobe boxes come with a railing so you can put clothes on their hangers straight into them. There are also moving boxes for flat-screen TVs, wine cartons and tough plastic moving bags that are more durable than regular garbage varieties.
Pack an essentials box for your first night in your new home in case you run out of energy to unpack everything
3. Consider these packing tips
Make sure you have enough moving boxes and bags so you don’t overpack. If boxes are very heavy they’ll take longer to shift, or the contents may spill out. Pack heavy and light items in the same box with lighter things on top. Pack things such as books in medium-sized boxes rather than jumbo boxes so they’re easy to carry.
4. Protect your things
Wrap your things securely – particularly if your stuff is travelling a long distance or over bumpy roads. The last thing you want to deal with is broken items upon unpacking. Bubble wrap will protect delicate items such as glassware and ornaments. If you’re worried about furniture, wrap it in rolls of corrugated cardboard, available from moving companies. Protection blankets will cushion bulky items that don’t fit in a box, or use an old blanket. And consider wrapping things in white packing paper instead of newspaper as ink can stain. Research where you can find cheap packaging supplies.
5. Pack and plan for your first night
Pack an essentials box for your first night in your new home in case you run out of energy to unpack everything. Include toiletries, bottled water, toilet paper, snacks, pyjamas and a change of clothes. Also make sure you connect your electricity and gas at least three days ahead of time so you’re not sitting in the dark.
Be smart when it comes to packing up your home and you’ll thank yourself when it’s time to unpack at your new place. And, once you’ve unpacked, don’t forget to recycle your cardboard boxes. Check Planet Ark’s website to find a recycling centre near you.
