It’s been a few years since I’ve had to move, so I’ve pretty much forgotten what a hefty project it can be. I’ve heard of the stories from my sisters of what a dreaded process it is. I feel like many forget what an ordeal packing is until they start, and then it all comes back!
The few times I have moved have not been my strongest. Yes, I admit I’ve been guilty of putting it off till the last minute in hopes that it will just all move itself. Forget about the organization, we’re in survival mode now. Shove whatever you can in a box, and fill it to the brim. I know, not my best tactic but drastic times come for drastic measures.
Many of us don’t want to admit it, but I’m sure we all can relate at one time or another how hard of a process moving can actually be.
I thought it would be nice if we all had a little refresher course on some healthy and stress free ways of packing. Whether you have already moved 10 times and hope you’ll never have to move again, or you have a big move coming up these Nine tips will help things go a little smoother.
Here are 8 tips for packing that will hopefully make moving a little easier and less stressful
1. Create a list of what needs to be done
I know you’re all probably thinking well duh, that’s a no-brainer, but this really can make the whole process a lot easier. I wasn’t always a list kind of girl. It took me quite a few years to realize the importance of lists. I’ll thank the college for that! Having so many assignments due during the semester I found there was no easy way to remember all the dates, and times things were due ( and might I add I have a pretty good memory) so I finally caved, and found the importance of making a list. I’m more of a simple gal myself and find it’s just as easy to use the notes on my phone to keep my list than anything else. This is a great place to store things since basically I always have my phone with me.
Scheduling a date to move is also a good thing to add to the list. Making a list will be an easy way to feel like things are getting accomplished even if the packing isn’t all finished, and who doesn’t love the warm feeling of being productive.
2. Gather Boxes and other moving materials
I have always found to only buy things that are extremely necessary. Coming from a poor college student here whenever you can get free boxes or other materials I would say do it!
In the past, I have gone to my local grocery store and gotten packing boxes. They have a ton of cardboard boxes with lids. I also asked my sis what they did since they just had a big move and she said they used cardboard boxes too, but went to an office supply store because the boxes were a bit sturdier and had handles.
3. Declutter your things
This step has always been one of my favorites. Yes, this is the time when you can get rid of those lovely wedding gifts, and other random decorations that have seen better days or you kept because you were too worried about giving them away. Now is the time to reorganize and evaluate what you want to keep, and what you’ve been dying to get rid of. The less stuff you have to pack the better.
4. Donate and giveaway
This can be the time when you can give back. I feel it so rewarding to fill a bag of used items no longer being needed, and donate it to someone who can use it. You would be surprised at what can go. DI and savers are the ones that I generally go to.
5. Sell your stuff
These are the items that you have barely used or maybe still have the tag on. There are so many places now where you can sell furniture, and clothes. Social media is one of the most popular ways to sell.
Depending on what you are selling will depend on where you want to post. Craigslist and KSL are both good places for selling furniture. My mom just introduced me to Facebook Marketplace and I have found very good results there! Poshmark is a good one for selling clothing, or you can also set up an account on Instagram, and sell your clothing there.
6. Start room by room
Having some sort of a plan always makes things easier. Starting room by room will make things not as stressful, and a way to know things are getting a thorough packing. I’ve always found doing the hardest rooms first makes it easier to finish the other rooms.
7. Label
Labeling is a great way for keeping everything organized. It can save time knowing where you are on packing. Labeling things will also help the movers know where to put the boxes when they are unloading.
8. Get Professional Help
There are always so many things that need to be done when moving, and sometimes the best thing to do is let a moving company take care of the hard part. Moving companies are great for exactly this purpose. If you are local and live in Florida use Weston Movers and Storage to get the job done. They handle residential and commercial moving in Broward County. This is a company that cares and puts you first. They are mindful and know how to take care of your stuff. They are very experienced in what they do and specialize in moving furniture(and office) pianos, and they have more services available on their website. Use Weston Movers and Storage next time you need some help! Be sure to give them a call as soon as you can to plan ahead and schedule a moving date. These professionals are the ones to help you get the job done.
