Packing Tips

The most important factor in minimizing the stress of packing is to start early. Begin by organizing your items into categories such as items to sell, donate, dispose, and keep. This step will give you a clear picture of what needs to be packed, thus making the process less overwhelming.

- Pre-planning: Plan your packing process well in advance. This will allow you to allocate enough time for each task and avoid last-minute panic.

- Room-by-room approach: Pack one room at a time to maintain organization. It will also make unpacking easier as similar items will be in the same boxes.

- Regular Progress: Instead of trying to pack everything at once, pack a bit every day. This helps to prevent fatigue and keeps you motivated throughout the process.

Using good quality packing materials can make a big difference in ensuring the safety of your belongings during transit. Invest in sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, tape, and other essential packing supplies.

- Sturdy Boxes: Purchase uniform-sized boxes from a packing store as they are more robust compared to supermarket or liquor store boxes that tend to crush easily.

- Protective Materials: Utilize bubble wrap, packing paper, or old newspapers to wrap fragile items. They provide an extra layer of protection during the move.

- Labeling: Clearly label each box with its contents and the designated room in your new location. Also, mark fragile items appropriately to ensure they are handled with extra care.

When planning for a move, having the right packing supplies at your disposal can make the entire process easier and more efficient. Below are the key items you'll need for an effective packing job:

- Small Boxes: These boxes (16" x 12" x 12") are ideal for packing heavy items like books and records. The smaller size ensures the box won't get too heavy to lift.

- Medium Boxes: Medium-sized boxes (18" x 18" x 16") are perfect for packing kitchen equipment and other moderately sized items.

- Mirror Pack: These special packs are designed to protect mirrors or framed art during transit, preventing breakages and scratches.

- Plain Paper & Bubble Wrap: Plain paper is preferable over newsprint as it doesn't smear. Bubble wrap or other cushioning materials offer additional protection for delicate items.

- Marking Pens: Use these to label your boxes clearly with information about the contents and their designated room in your new home.

- Large Heavy Duty Garbage Bags: These bags are great for packing soft items like clothes, bedding, and stuffed toys. They're also useful for disposing of unwanted items before the move.

China and glassware are delicate items that need extra care during packing. Start by lining the bottom of your box with crumpled newsprint for cushioning. Wrap each item individually using bubble wrap or packing paper to prevent chipping or breakage. Make sure to leave enough room at the top of the box for more crumpled newsprint, ensuring all items are snugly packed and secure.

Pictures and mirrors require special attention due to their fragile nature. Use special mirror cartons if available, or wrap them in bubble wrap and pack into sturdy boxes lined with newsprint. This will offer maximum protection against damages during the move.

Lamps can be tricky to pack due to their different components. Separate lamp shades from their bases as they need to be packed separately. Wrap the base in bubble wrap to avoid scratches or damage. Lamp shades should be packed alone in a box to prevent deformation.

For items like linens, pillows, and folded clothes, heavy-duty plastic trash bags are a great packing option. They are lightweight, easy to carry, and can be sealed to protect contents from dirt and moisture.

When it comes to bureau items, empty the drawers before moving. Avoid taping drawers shut as the adhesive can ruin the varnish. Instead, secure them with stretch wrap or moving blankets.

Books, files, and records can become very heavy when packed together. Empty bookcases or filing cabinets and pack these items into small boxes. This makes them easier to lift and reduces the risk of boxes breaking under weight.

To prepare plants for the move, stop watering them a few days in advance. This keeps the weight down and makes them less turgid ahead of the move. Wrap plastic bags around the base to contain any residual moisture and soil.

Before moving your barbeque, ensure any residual ash, oil, dust, grease, soot, etc. are thoroughly cleaned, inside and out. Don't use water to clean the interior, simply tip or brush out any debris from inside. This prevents potential mess and makes it safer to transport.