A common misconception about moving is that it's significantly easier when your destination is nearby. Of course! Why would moving from Waldo, Florida to nearby Archer, Florida be more difficult than relocating out of the state, or abroad? As they say, though, the devil is in the details, and that is especially true when you're coordinating the transport of all of your valuable possessions. Even if you've hired the help of full-service movers, it still helps to give yourself ample time to plan and organize your possessions to make your move a seamless and anxiety-free experience.
In order to streamline your packing and relocation experience, our team – composed of expert residential, commercial, and long-distance movers – have assembled a handy set of tips for you to reference as you prepare your household items and keepsakes for their upcoming journey.
Tip 1: Get Started Now!
People often underestimate the amount of time it takes to pack – even with a good packing plan. Avoid pushing yourself to the brink of insanity by getting an early start. Even if your move is a few months off, you can start packing off-season items or other things you don't need to use in the weeks leading up to your departure.Tip 2: Pack One Room at a Time
Residential moving experts follow this simple, but sure packing tip: pack one room at a time, and don't mix items from different rooms. Not only does this make unpacking easier, it gives your packing process a nice flow and helps you stay aware of what is done and what you need to focus on next.Tip 3: Get the Right Materials
Do not use grocery store boxes. Though the cheap option can be attractive, but using free boxes from stores can cost you in the long run. These used boxes are often reused and, as such, may not offer the carrying capacity or structural integrity you need. Instead, opt for new moving boxes.Tip 4: You Can't Pack Everything
Some items can't fit neatly in a box, or are too fragile for a moving truck. There are also items that are illegal to pack on moving trucks, such as aerosols, guns, ammunition, and nail polish remover. Make a list of these items and determine a more convenient way to transport them.Tip 5: Prioritize by Use
Don't pack things you'll need prior to moving day. That might seem obvious, but it's easy to get caught up in packing and later find yourself on a scavenger hunt. Make a list of the things you use daily, and set those items aside so they don't get lost in the shuffle.Tip 6: Group Your Items
Pair like items based on fragility, size, and location. Don't pack delicate items with heavy ones, and keep parts that go together in the same box. This protects your belongings, makes unpacking easier, and keeps you from losing bits and pieces during your move.Tip 7: Pack in Layers
It's important to fill your boxes, so there is no space in the middle. If boxes feel loosely packed, your local movers won't touch them for fear of jostling something inside and breaking it. Fill in gaps with clothing or towels, and layer your boxes with heavy items on the bottom and lighter ones on top.Tip 8: Protect Fragile Items
When packing fragile items, wrap each individual item in a protective material such as packing paper or cushioned wrap. Bundle items together when you can for added support. If packing plates, always place them on their sides instead of flat on the bottom, and it's okay to bundle bowls and cups together if each is wrapped well.Tip 9: Label it
Label each box with its corresponding room name and a description of what's inside. This lets you and your movers know where to take each box, and helps you locate items when you need them. You can also number each box and make an inventory list to help you keep everything organized.Tip 10: Load Heavy Boxes First
If you're loading the moving truck yourself, this helpful tip will keep you from wearing yourself out early. Pack heavy boxes first, then work towards the lighter items. This is also a good idea because it keeps you from accidentally crushing light boxes under heavy ones.
Successful packing is all about protecting your items and making unpacking as simple as possible. Following these tips will also take a lot of the stress out of moving, and you might even enjoy it! Need some extra help? Our Gainesville movers are here to help with all your residential moving needs.
Whether your destination is in Micanopy Florida, Archer, Waldo, or any of the number of cities within the Gainesville area, call A-Turner Moving and Storage today to learn about our comprehensive, fully-customizable relocation services. We also invite you to submit our quick and easy online form to request your free moving quote.
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