6 Simple Ways to Make Packing Easier for a Long Distance Move

When you need to pack for a move that is far from your current home, you will want to make the packing process easier to make the unpacking process faster. Use these six simple ways to pack so that your possessions arrive safely at your new destination.

1. Get Rid of Clutter before Beginning to Pack

If your home is filled with clutter that you don’t want to move, then you should begin to discard things right away. Getting rid of things will make sorting, wrapping and packing essential items easier. First, have trash bags to throw away things that no one wants. You can also have a box for the things that you want to donate to someone else. If you need cash, then you can have a garage sale to sell unwanted items, but this will require more time. As you are sorting through things, make sure to place similar items together so that you are prepared for the packing process later.

2. Containers in a Variety of Sizes

You should have cardboard boxes or plastic totes that are in a variety of sizes so that you can pack things properly. Remember that larger boxes are difficult to lift and move around, leading to back injuries. However, you may need a large container for a big single item. Avoid packing numerous heavy objects into a container because the bottom can break. Using a lot of smaller boxes is easier than using only a few larger containers because it is easier carry the boxes up and down a flight of stairs or through a narrow doorway.

3. Appropriate Cushioning and Wrapping Materials

While looking for plastic totes and cardboard boxes, make sure to invest in the appropriate wrapping and cushioning materials. You can use old newspapers for wrapping some things, but the ink can damage some items. It is better to buy rolls of plain paper, foam packing materials or plastic sheets to protect your delicate or breakable items. Make sure to have cutting tools or scissors for these items to make it easier to wrap or cushion your possessions.

4. Labels and Tape

When you are packing boxes for the move, you will forget what is inside each container, so you should label the box right away. You can find adhesive labels to attach to each side of a container, and some experts recommend labels in an assortment of colors. It is possible to use certain colors of labels for each room to help the movers place the containers in the correct location. This is a great system for loading and unloading a truck quickly, especially when your moving technicians can’t read or speak English.

5. Don’t Pack Certain Items

Avoid packing important documents such as health insurance cards, birth certificates or deeds because you may need these items while you are relocating to your new home. Have a list of the things that you cannot pack, including combustible cans of paint or cleansers. Remember that a moving van can become very hot or cold, damaging sensitive objects such as paintings. If you have valuable jewelry or collectibles, then you should transport these items in your vehicle or in a suitcase on an airplane.

6. Have a Special Box for Your Moving Day

Have a special box or plastic tote that is for your moving day. This is the last box that you will want to load onto a moving truck so that you can unload it right away at your new home. Things to pack in the box will include the essential items such as bathroom tissue, soap, towels and snacks along with plastic cups, plates and forks. You can also include items such as a bathroom rug, shower curtain or bedding so that you can relax and rest while unpacking the other containers.

Plan Your Move Carefully

You will likely have several weeks or months to plan your move, so you should plan carefully along with having a written schedule to help you complete all of the tasks. Avoid waiting until the last week to begin discarding, organizing and packing because you will become stressed and tired.