The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step — as long as you’re not bringing anything with you. If you’re like most people, moving starts with figuring out what to pack. Knowing where to begin and what to do when packing for a move can save you a lot of time, effort and headaches. With that in mind, here are some basic tips to help you know what to do when it’s time to begin preparing for your journey to a new home, no matter how far you’re going.
Where to Start
Before you put anything into a box, you need to plan how you will pack your belongings more effectively and efficiently. Here’s a three-step process you should use so you’ll know exactly where to begin when packing for your move:
1. Take a full inventory of your home
- It’s easier to pack when you know exactly what you have and what you want to bring with you. Be sure to note items that will require special care or packing materials.
2. Cut the dead weight
- Chances are, you won’t want to bring everything in your old home to your new one. Bringing items you’re just going to get rid of later wastes time, effort and money. Take the time to get rid of anything you don’t want before you start packing. Sell or donate whatever you can and you’ll lighten your load before you get started.
3. Get the right materials
- Once you know what you’ll be bringing with you, you’ll know exactly what kind of packing materials you’ll need. Be sure you have enough boxes, tape and bubble wrap to protect everything you have.
Which Room to Pack First?
It’s conventional wisdom that the rooms you use least should be packed first, which generally means storage areas such as your garage and attic should be packed before other rooms. That will give you a chance to cull anything you haven’t thought about in years and would just take space in the moving van.
After those rooms, move to any spare rooms such as guest rooms or dens, then work on your kitchen. Your kitchen will need extra attention because of all the appliances and glass that you’ll have to pack. Your living room should probably come next. Finally, you should wait until last to pack your bedroom and bathroom because you’ll probably still be using them up to and including the morning of your move.
Which Items Should Be Packed First?
The rule of thumb for packing individual items is that the least-essential ones should be packed first. That includes artwork, toys, clothing, jewelry and anything else you won’t need for the week or so you’ll be spending on the packing process. Items you’ll need immediately upon arriving in your new home — including your toothbrush, toilet paper, medications, etc. — should all be packed in the same box, so you won’t have to waste time hunting for any of it the next morning.
No matter how much planning you do, moving into a new home is a big job — which is why you could probably benefit from some professional help. If you want your move to go as smoothly as possible, contact Ward North American to schedule your move today.
