Moving can be chaotic, but with the right approach, you can protect your belongings and ensure everything arrives safely at your new home. Professional movers have honed their packing skills through years of experience, and now, they’re sharing their secrets with you. Here are the top packing tips from the pros to help keep your items safe and secure during your move.
1. Start Early and Stay Organized
Procrastination is your enemy when it comes to packing. Starting early allows you to take your time, avoid rushing, and pack systematically. Here’s how:
- Create a packing schedule: Break down your home into sections and tackle one area at a time.
- Gather supplies: Stock up on sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, markers, and tape.
- Declutter: Moving is the perfect time to purge items you no longer need. Donate, sell, or toss unwanted belongings before you start packing.
Pro Tip: Keep an “essentials box” with items you’ll need immediately at your new home—like toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, and basic kitchen supplies.
2. Use the Right Boxes and Materials
Not all boxes are created equal. Using the right materials can mean the difference between your belongings arriving intact or broken:
- Small boxes for heavy items: Use small boxes for books, canned goods, and tools to prevent overloading.
- Medium boxes for most items: Perfect for dishes, electronics, and small appliances.
- Large boxes for light items: Ideal for pillows, bedding, and clothing.
- Specialty boxes: Use wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes and dish boxes with dividers for fragile dishes.
Packing Materials:
- Bubble wrap and packing paper: Essential for protecting breakables like glassware and ceramics.
- Packing tape: Invest in high-quality tape to ensure boxes stay closed during transport.
- Stretch wrap: Great for securing drawers, protecting furniture, and keeping loose items together.
3. Pack Fragile Items Like a Pro
Fragile items need extra care. Professional movers recommend these steps:
- Wrap each item individually: Use bubble wrap or packing paper to cushion glass, dishes, and fragile décor.
- Double-box delicate items: Place fragile items in a small box with padding, then put that box inside a larger box for extra protection.
- Use the “bundle” method: Stack plates vertically with padding in between, and wrap bundles of glasses with paper.
Pro Tip: Label boxes containing fragile items with “FRAGILE” and indicate which side should face up.
4. Secure Furniture and Large Items
Bulky items like furniture and appliances require special attention:
- Disassemble where possible: Remove legs from tables, shelves from bookcases, and bed frames. Keep hardware in labeled bags taped to the corresponding piece.
- Protect surfaces: Use furniture pads, blankets, or stretch wrap to prevent scratches and dents.
- Secure drawers and doors: Wrap dressers and cabinets in stretch wrap to keep drawers from sliding open during transit.
Pro Tip: Take photos of how electronics are connected (TVs, sound systems) to make reassembly easier at your new place.
5. Don’t Overpack Boxes
It’s tempting to cram as much as possible into each box, but overpacking leads to damaged items and back strain:
- Limit box weight to 50 pounds: This makes boxes manageable and reduces the risk of items breaking.
- Fill empty spaces: Use packing paper or towels to fill gaps in boxes, preventing items from shifting.
- Close boxes securely: Use tape on the top and bottom seams, and reinforce edges for added strength.
6. Label Everything Clearly
Proper labeling makes unpacking much smoother:
- Room-specific labels: Mark each box with the room it belongs to (e.g., “Kitchen,” “Master Bedroom”).
- Contents: Write a brief description of what’s inside (e.g., “Dishes,” “Books”).
- Priority: Mark essential boxes with “Unpack First” for items you’ll need immediately.
Pro Tip: Use color-coded labels or tape to quickly identify boxes for each room.
7. Keep Valuables with You
For important documents, jewelry, cash, and sentimental items, it’s best to keep them with you during the move:
- Create a secure folder: Store passports, birth certificates, and financial documents in a waterproof folder.
- Pack a small bag: Keep family heirlooms, jewelry, and other valuable items in a bag you transport yourself.
8. Use Professional Packing Services for Special Items
If you have high-value or specialty items like antiques, artwork, or a grand piano, consider hiring professional packers. They have the expertise and materials to ensure these items are packed and transported safely.
9. Plan for the Weather
Spokane’s weather can be unpredictable, especially in winter. Keep these tips in mind:
- Protect items from moisture: Use plastic wrap to keep boxes dry in rain or snow.
- Plan for temperature changes: Don’t leave sensitive items (like electronics) in extreme heat or cold for long periods.
10. Communicate with Your Movers
Finally, communicate with your moving company. Let them know about any special requirements, fragile items, or concerns. Professional movers appreciate clear instructions and will take extra care to meet your needs.
Final Thoughts: Pack Smart, Move Safe
Packing doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With these expert tips, you can protect your belongings and make your move to or within Spokane stress-free. Remember, the key is organization, proper materials, and planning ahead. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t hesitate to reach out to professional movers who offer full-service packing options.
Ready to move? Start early, stay organized, and trust the pros for a smooth, hassle-free experience. Happy moving! 🏡
