It’s two weeks to the big house move, the contracts are signed and it’s all systems go. Except, that is, the boxes that will transfer your belongings from old to new. It has always been the most arduous part of a house move, but of course, it has to be done – packing.
Labelling the wires for your stereo system, wrapping the table and chair legs to protect them whilst in transit and making sure that your glass and chinaware is suitably covered, all has to be done before you can put up your feet and wait for the removal men to arrive.
As most removal firms will tell you, there is a right and a wrong way when it comes to packing your goods. What’s more, the better you do it, the easier it is.
Here are some tips to make packing as simple as can be.
- Don’t leave packing until the last minute because however organised you might be, it will always take longer than anticipated.
- Begin at the top of the house and move downwards. If you have an attic, it’s a good idea to sort it out first.
- Get the right tools for the job. Boxes made of corrugated cardboard are best whilst plastic crates are a great cost effective option.
- Always pack heavy items in small boxes. It will make transporting them easier. Also, keep the weight of all boxes to a minimum to avoid any back injuries.
- Packing one room at a time is the way forward. Clearly label each box with details of its contents and the room to which it belongs. Label boxes that contain breakables and also those that are load-bearing and can be stacked in the van.
- Keep all boxes for each room together. This will save time unpacking. It may sound obvious but pack heavier items on the bottom of the box and lighter items on top.
- Wrap items individually and place in a box that’s been lined with several layers of newspaper and a sheet of bubble wrap. Any breakables should also be wrapped in bubble wrap.
- Pillows and blankets are also useful for wrapping valuables and protecting furniture prone to dents and scratches.
- Pack important documents together, such as birth and marriage certificates, and keep them in a safe place.
- Pack a box of essentials that you’ll need early on at the other end that will travel with you e.g. the kettle, cups or mugs, tea, coffee.
Lucinda Dangerfield, co director of the Space Centre self storage company has vast experience in terms of packaging and stresses the importance of doing a thorough job
She said; “We have seen many families use our units to store their belongings, before a house move, so we understand the necessity to get it right.
“If you do take heed of the tips above, it will make things a great deal easier at a time when stress levels are understandably high.”
If you want to share your tips for packing when moving house pop them in the comments box below. If you need some tips or prices on boxes, crates and packaging material or even the price of storing your belongings whilst you are in the process of moving, contact us.