Discover 9 Packing Hacks to Make Your Move Easier Today

May 02, 2023 by: Jerilyn Alvarez
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1. Maximize Space

Relocating can be a tiresome and drawn-out undertaking, but with the correct packing techniques you can make your move simpler and more effective. One of the most important things to consider when packing is how to maximize space in your boxes and containers. Maximizing the space in your packing containers is key to making a move easier and more efficient, as well as enabling you to locate items with greater ease when unpacking.

To help maximize space in your boxes, follow these tips:

  • Use smaller boxes for heavier items: This may seem counterintuitive, but using smaller boxes for heavy items like books or kitchen appliances will prevent them from becoming too heavy to lift and ensure that they don't take up unnecessary space in larger containers.
  • Nest similar-shaped items together: When possible, try nesting pots inside one another or stacking plates vertically instead of horizontally. By packing items in a more efficient manner, it is possible to fit more into each box while decreasing the chances of any harm occurring during transport.
  • Pack clothing efficiently: Instead of folding clothes flat as usual, roll them tightly before placing them into bags or suitcases. Not only does this save space; it also prevents wrinkles. For an even better solution, consider using vacuum storage bags.
  • Filling empty spaces with soft goods: Use towels, linens, pillows, stuffed animals - any soft item that can fill gaps between other objects. This helps stabilize packed belongings by preventing movement within the box while providing extra cushioning protection against breakage.
  • Disassemble furniture: If possible, take apart large pieces of furniture like bed frames and bookshelves. Disassembling furniture can help you maximize the space in your boxes and containers, thereby minimizing trips needed during your move and making it easier to find what you need when unpacking.

By maximizing space in your boxes and containers, you'll be able to pack more efficiently and reduce the number of trips needed during your move. Plus, when it's time to unpack at your new home or self-storage unit, finding what you need will be a breeze.

2. Label Everything

Moving can be a chaotic experience, but labeling your boxes and containers will help you stay organized throughout the process. This simple yet effective packing hack ensures that you know exactly what's inside each box and where it belongs in your new home.

Why is labeling important?
 

  • Easier unpacking: When you arrive at your new place, labeled boxes make it much easier to identify which items belong in each room. This saves time during the unpacking process and helps prevent misplaced belongings.
  • Better organization: With labels on every box, you'll have a clear idea of what items are packed together, making it simpler to locate specific things when needed.
  • Fewer lost items: Properly labeled boxes reduce the chances of losing or misplacing essential belongings during the move.
     

Tips for effective labeling
 

  1. Create an inventory list: Before packing anything, create an inventory list with all your belongings categorized by room. This will give you a better understanding of what needs to be packed together and makes creating labels more efficient. You can use free apps like Sortly, which allows users to create digital inventories complete with photos and descriptions.
  2. Select durable materials: Use high-quality permanent markers or printed labels that won't fade or smudge easily during transport. Waterproof options are also recommended if there's any chance of moisture exposure during transit or storage (such as using self-storage units).

Labeling is an essential part of any move, and it's important to do it right. By following these tips, you can ensure that your belongings are properly labeled and organized, making your move much easier and less stressful.

Tagging your possessions is a great strategy for keeping tabs on what you have stuffed away and make unpacking easier. Labeling your items will save you from having to search through boxes for specific items later on, thus making unpacking easier.

3. Use Bubble Wrap

Moving can be a trying time, particularly when it comes to packing and transporting delicate items. To ensure your delicate belongings arrive at their destination in one piece, using bubble wrap or packing paper is essential. It is critical to secure fragile items during a move, and this article will provide some useful advice on how best to do so.

Why You Should Use Bubble Wrap

Bubble wrap is ideal for protecting delicate items, such as glassware, ceramics, electronics and other valuables from potential damage during transit due to its air-filled bubbles which absorb shocks and vibrations. The air-filled bubbles absorb shocks and vibrations while keeping your items secure from potential harm.

Aside from its protective qualities, bubble wrap is also lightweight and easy to handle compared to other types of packaging materials like newspaper or foam peanuts. This makes it ideal for people who are looking for efficient ways to pack their belongings without adding too much weight or bulkiness.

Tips for Using Bubble Wrap Effectively
 

  1. Purchase high-quality bubble wrap: Not all bubble wraps are created equal - make sure you invest in a durable product that will offer maximum protection for your fragile items. Look out for reputable brands with positive customer reviews online before making a purchase.
  2. Cover every inch of the item: When wrapping an object with bubble wrap, make sure you cover its entire surface area including any protruding parts or edges that could potentially cause damage if not protected properly. Don't skimp on the amount of material used - it's better to have extra layers than risk having insufficient padding around your precious cargo.
  3. Secure with tape: Once you've wrapped an item completely in bubble wrap (or packing paper), use packing tape to secure the material in place. This will prevent it from unraveling during transit and ensure your items stay protected throughout the entire moving process.
  4. Fill empty spaces: When placing wrapped items inside boxes, make sure there are no gaps or empty spaces that could cause them to shift around during transport. Fill any voids with additional bubble wrap, crumpled newspaper, or other cushioning materials to keep everything snug and secure.

If you're running low on bubble wrap or need more supplies for your move, consider checking out local retailers like The Home Depot or online stores such as Amazon. With these tips in mind, you'll be well-equipped to protect your fragile belongings and ensure a smooth transition into your new home.

4. Pack Heavy Items First

Relocating can be a taxing experience, but one approach to make it simpler is by arranging your things shrewdly. One essential tip is to pack heavy items first at the bottom of boxes and lighter items on top for stability during transport. This will not only help prevent damage to your belongings but also make carrying and stacking boxes more manageable.

Why Packing Heavy Items First Matters
 

  • Safety: Placing heavier items at the bottom helps distribute weight evenly, reducing the risk of accidents or injuries while lifting and moving boxes.
  • Protection: Heavier objects placed on top of lighter ones can cause crushing or breakage during transit. By placing them at the bottom, you'll protect fragile belongings from potential harm.
  • Easier unpacking: When you arrive at your new home or storage unit, having heavy items already situated in their proper place makes unpacking less chaotic and time-consuming.
     

Tips for Packing Heavy Items Efficiently
 

  1. Select appropriate box sizes: Use smaller boxes for heavy items like books, tools, or kitchen appliances so that they're easier to carry without straining yourself. You can find helpful tips on choosing the right box size in this guide about Choosing The Right Box Size For Your Move.
  2. Create a solid base with padding materials: Line the bottom of each box with crumpled packing paper or bubble wrap before adding any heavy objects; this provides extra cushioning against bumps during transportation.
  3. Wrap fragile heavy items individually: Use bubble wrap or packing paper to protect breakable items like dishes, glassware, and electronics. This will help prevent scratches and cracks during the move.
  4. Avoid overpacking boxes: It's crucial not to make your boxes too heavy for one person to lift comfortably. If a box becomes too cumbersome, consider splitting its contents into two smaller containers instead.

Packing can be overwhelming, but by following these simple tips on how to pack heavy items first in your moving process, you'll ensure a smoother transition into your new home or storage unit. Remember that proper organization is key.

5. Use Garbage Bags for Small Items

Moving can be a messy process, especially when it comes to keeping track of small, loose items like screws, nails, and other hardware pieces that could get lost during the move. One simple yet effective packing hack is to use garbage bags for storing these easily misplaced items. Garbage bags are an economical and organized way to store items that can easily be misplaced during a move.

Here are some tips on how to make the most out of using garbage bags while packing:

  • Choose heavy-duty bags: Opt for heavy-duty garbage bags with drawstrings or handles for added durability and ease of transport.
  • Create categories: Sort your small items into categories (e.g., kitchen utensils, bathroom accessories) before placing them in separate garbage bags. Once you're in your new place, unpacking will be a breeze due to the organization of items.
  • Add labels: Clearly label each bag with its contents using a permanent marker or adhesive labels so you can quickly identify what's inside without having to rummage through multiple bags.
  • Tie securely: Ensure all openings are tightly sealed by tying knots or using zip ties to prevent any accidental spills during transit.

In addition to organizing smaller items, garbage bags can also serve as makeshift covers for larger belongings such as clothing and linens. Simply slide a bag over hanging clothes in your closet and secure it at the bottom with a rubber band or tie - this keeps everything clean and protected from dust during transportation. You can also use garbage bags to wrap around delicate items like lamps and vases for added protection.

6. Pack Glasses and Fragile Items with Paper Towels

When it comes to packing fragile items like glasses and vases, it's important to take extra care to ensure they arrive at your new home in one piece. One easy way to do this is to use paper towels as a cushion. Simply wrap each item in a few sheets of paper towel before placing it in a box. This will help absorb any shock or impact during transit and keep your items safe.

7. Use Plastic Wrap to Save Space

If you're looking for a way to save space while packing, consider using plastic wrap. This can be especially helpful when packing items like clothing, bedding, and linens. Simply roll up your items and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. This will not only save space in your boxes, but it will also help keep your items clean and protected during the move.

8. Invest in Mattress Bags

Your mattress is one of the most important items you'll be moving, so it's important to keep it clean and protected during transit. Investing in a mattress bag is a simple and affordable way to do this. These bags are designed to fit snugly around your mattress and protect it from dust, dirt, and moisture during the move.

9. Don't Forget the Toilet Paper

Finally, don't forget to pack some toilet paper in your essentials box. This may seem like a small detail, but it can make a big difference on moving day. You don't want to arrive at your new home only to realize you don't have any toilet paper on hand.

By incorporating these packing hacks into your moving checklist, you'll be able to make the most of every available storage solution and ensure that your belongings arrive safely at your new home. Whether you're moving across town or across the country, these tips will help make the process a little easier.

Final Words

In conclusion, these 5 packing hacks will help make your move easier and more efficient. By maximizing space, labeling everything, using bubble wrap, packing heavy items first, and utilizing garbage bags, you can ensure a smooth transition to your new home or storage unit.

Recall these strategies when organizing your next move or self-storage venture. For affordable and convenient storage solutions, visit EZstorit.ca.