Three Packing Mistakes to Avoid
As you prepare to pack your home for a move, it's a good idea to consider some of the packing mistakes that can make your move go less smoothly. Use this guide to help plan out your packing and avoid some of these common packing mistakes.
Reusing Boxes
You might have a stash of old boxes sitting in your home, but depending on their condition, they may cause problems when it comes time to move. Worn boxes can tear or break, which can lead to your items falling out during the move. To keep your items safe and free from damage, invest in new, sturdy boxes. You can typically purchase boxes from your moving company, or you may be able to rent heavy-duty plastic storage containers for another sturdy packing option.
Overloading Boxes
You may want to fit your items in as few boxes as possible to save on moving costs, but this can also create problems during the moving process. Boxes that are filled with heavy items can be hard to lift. If you pack too many fragile items inside of one box, your items may become damaged or broken. Instead of using large boxes to pack all your items, use several smaller boxes to keep them light. For fragile items, such as glassware, consider investing in specialty boxes designed just for these items.
Using a Bad Labeling Plan
Labeling your boxes is critical when it comes to unpacking once you arrive at your new home. Simple labels indicating what is inside each box may seem helpful, but they can ultimately become confusing. Instead of simply labeling boxes "clothes" or "books," come up with a labeling system. For example, label boxes for bedrooms with the name of the person they belong to and which types of clothing are inside of each box.
When it's time to unpack in each room, you can prioritize the boxes and get everything settled more quickly. You may even want to use color-coded labels to assign items to each room they belong in. Talk to your moving company to see what types of resources it offers for packing, such as boxes and packing supplies.
If you prefer not to pack at all, you may be able to take advantage of moving services, such as packing and unpacking services. With the right packing plan in place, you can get your items ready to go for the day of your big move.
