Chapter 2: Packing for Your Move – How to Pack Like a Pro
Now that you’ve organised your moving checklist and started planning, it’s time to dive into one of the most crucial parts of your move: packing. While it may seem like a daunting task, with a few key strategies, you can pack like a pro and avoid common moving mishaps. Whether you’re packing up a small apartment or a large family home, this chapter will guide you through the process step by step.
- Gather the Right Packing Supplies
Before you pack a single box, it’s important to make sure you have all the supplies you’ll need. High-quality materials will protect your belongings and make the packing process much smoother. Here’s a checklist of essentials:
• Sturdy moving boxes in various sizes
• Packing tape (lots of it!)
• Bubble wrap and packing paper for fragile items
• Markers or labels to clearly identify boxes
• Furniture blankets or moving pads for larger items
• Plastic wrap to secure drawers and furniture parts
You can find these materials at your local hardware store, or consider ordering a moving pack through your removalist company to save time.
2. Pack Room by Room
Instead of randomly packing items from different parts of the house, pack one room at a time. This makes it easier to stay organised and unpack efficiently at your new home. Label each box with the room name and a general list of contents (e.g., “Kitchen – Pots, Pans, Plates”).
Start with rooms that you use the least—guest bedrooms, storage rooms, or seasonal items—so that your everyday routine is not interrupted during the packing process.
3. Declutter as You Pack
As you pack, this is the perfect time to declutter. Ask yourself, “Do I really need this in my new home?” If you haven’t used an item in the past year, it might be time to donate or toss it. The fewer items you have to pack, the faster the process will go, and the less space (and money) you’ll need to transport everything.
For example, start by clearing out closets, drawers, and storage spaces, setting aside anything you no longer want or need.
4.Pack Fragile Items Carefully
When it comes to delicate or breakable items, a little extra care goes a long way. For dishes, glassware, and valuables:
• Wrap each item individually in packing paper or bubble wrap.
• Place dishes vertically in boxes to reduce the chance of them breaking.
• Use towels, linens, or clothing to add extra padding between fragile items.
• Label these boxes as “FRAGILE” so movers know to handle them with care.
Hiring professionals, like Holloway Removals, can ensure fragile items are packed securely and safely transported to your new home.
5.Use Small Boxes for Heavy Items
It might seem counterintuitive, but when packing heavier items (like books or kitchen appliances), use smaller boxes. Filling large boxes with heavy items makes them difficult to carry and increases the risk of them breaking. Save your bigger boxes for lighter things, like bedding or clothing.
Tip: Don’t overload boxes. A box that’s too heavy is more likely to break, which can damage your belongings.
6.Secure Furniture and Large Items
Packing up large furniture may seem tricky, but with the right approach, you can do it efficiently:
• Disassemble large pieces like beds, tables, and shelving units whenever possible. Keep screws, bolts, and other small parts in clearly labelled ziplock bags taped to the furniture.
• Wrap furniture in moving blankets or bubble wrap to avoid damage during transport.
• Use plastic wrap to secure drawers and doors so they don’t open while moving.
For large or awkwardly shaped furniture, hiring professional movers is your best bet. Holloway Removals offers expert furniture handling, ensuring that everything is transported securely.
7.Don’t Forget Your “Essentials” Box
As mentioned in Chapter 1, a “first night” or “essentials” box is a must-have when moving. Pack all the items you’ll need right away, like toiletries, chargers, important documents, a few kitchen essentials, and a change of clothes. This way, you won’t be rummaging through boxes after a long day of moving.
Make sure this box is clearly labelled and kept separate from the rest of your packed belongings so it’s easy to access on moving day.
8.Label, Label, Label
Labelling is your best friend when it comes to packing. Clearly mark each box with:
• The room it belongs to
• A brief list of contents
• Whether it contains fragile items
If you have boxes you’ll need to open immediately upon arrival (like your kitchen essentials or toiletries), consider using coloured tape or stickers to differentiate them. This will make unpacking far more manageable once you get to your new place.
Pro Tip: If you hire a moving company like Holloway Removals, their expert team can offer packing services too. They have all the right materials and know how to pack even the most delicate items efficiently and securely.
9.Consider Storage Solutions
If your move involves downsizing, a delay between moving out and moving in, or simply a need for extra space, storage solutions can be a lifesaver. Holloway Removals offers flexible, secure storage options to fit your needs. Whether it’s short-term or long-term storage, having a safe place to store your belongings can provide peace of mind and reduce the stress of moving. You can easily store items that you don’t need right away, giving you the freedom to unpack and organise your new space at your own pace. By working with a company that offers both moving and storage services, like Holloway Removals, you can streamline the process and ensure all your belongings are well taken care of.
Final Thoughts
Packing for a move doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By starting early, gathering the right supplies, and packing in an organised way, you’ll make the entire process easier for yourself. And if you’re looking for extra support, consider hiring professionals who can pack, transport, and unpack your belongings safely.
Stay tuned for Chapter 3, where we’ll guide you through moving day tips to help everything run smoothly.
