Summer leases are coming to an end, and we’re in the midst of the ideal period to sell a property (early spring to summer), so many people may be looking to relocate. However, summer brings all of the distractions—vacations, picnics, and the kids being home from school—that make packing one of the last items on your to-do list. And, while it may be tempting to leave things till the last minute, in one word: don’t. We offer professional recommendations on how to keep organized, pack even the most fragile goods, and, most importantly, stay calm.
Preparations
Create a basic timeline before assembling your first box (or hiring someone to do it for you). It will save you time and help you stay organized throughout the day.
On the day of the relocation, perform a final walkthrough of your former house. If you are renting, ensure that everything is clean and there is no damage. Check the new property for damage and take photographs if you’re renting. Clean any areas of the flat that may be difficult to access after the furniture is in place.
Prep your new home ahead of time
If possible, complete any necessary preparations for your new location before the boxes arrive. It is far easier to resurface floors, paint walls, and install new fixtures if you are not in the process of unpacking. The same is true for a thorough clean—unless your new house is perfect, washing floors, windows, and the interior of closets and cupboards checks one task off your list ahead of time, making the inevitable post-move clean immensely simpler.
If you are packing yourself, or if the professionals are doing it for you, make sure you follow these tips:
Heavy things should be stored in book boxes or leased plastic reusable boxes, which are designed to handle a lot of weight. Most ordinary boxes are not.
To protect linens and delicate products such as cushions from spillage, store them in plastic bags.
Do yourself a favor and acquire wardrobe boxes (which have a hanging bar) for any garments that need to be hung. It can help prevent wrinkles.
For fragile stemware or plates, get specially designed boxes and pack them gently with tissue paper and Bubble Wrap.
Tape your boxes tightly—tape the center seam twice and at the bottom edges where the flaps fold. Make sure the tape goes 4 to 6 inches up the edges of the box.
Keep all important information in one location.
Keep a moving file, especially if you are responsible for all of the moving logistics. This document should include copies of any vital information you may need on the day of the move, such as a moving contract, insurance information, and phone numbers for installing or uninstalling home services.
Stay organized
Assuming you’ve previously eliminated unneeded stuff (to prevent paying to transport things you don’t need), it’s time to begin packing.
As you pack, number each box and make a list or spreadsheet of what it includes. There is no need to list each pair of socks, but making a note of broad categories like “pajamas” as well as specific key objects like “grandma’s vase” may spare you from sifting through hundreds of boxes later.
On the outside, clearly designate each box’s final destination—living room, kitchen, garage. Color-coding earns you bonus points.
Enlist help
Going it alone is the surest way to burn out during a relocation. If possible, seek the assistance of family and friends; nevertheless, be realistic about their abilities and play to their strengths. Your mother might not be up for carrying boxes, but she might be terrific at keeping the movers in control. Also, make sure you thank any helps with a meal—and even a drink or two.
You can also book professional movers like the H2H Movers team to help you load, unload, pack, unpack, and handle it all with care and a personal approach.
Once you’ve arrived in your new home, begin by unpacking the goods you’ll need immediately, such as cooking supplies, bedding, and essential amenities. Then go room by room.