Are you moving into a new home in Champaign County soon? Moving can be a tedious process, but there are ways to simplify it. Here are seven common moving “must-dos” that will make your move go much more smoothly.
1. Start Packing Early
To ensure a smooth moving process, it is essential to begin with a plan and start packing weeks in advance. This is particularly important if you have a lot of belongings. Before you start packing, take the time to create an inventory of everything that needs to be packed or discarded, and organize it by room. This upfront effort will save you time and minimize stress during the move.
2. Labels Save Time
To ensure accurate delivery and avoid relying solely on memory, it is crucial to label boxes with both their contents and the corresponding room location. This practice not only simplifies the process of placing items in their designated spots but also eliminates the need to strain one’s memory. Avoid the pitfalls of relying on memory alone by labeling boxes accurately.
3. Don’t Go Cheap on Moving Supplies and Boxes
There are various ways to obtain free moving boxes, such as through friends, donation centers, and neighborhood-sidewalk giveaways. However, it is important not to skimp on purchasing new boxes. Spending an extra $40-$50 is worthwhile, as it can prevent valuable items from being damaged.
When buying boxes, ensure that you have the appropriate sizes for different items. Heavier objects like books, canned goods, and candles should be packed in smaller, more compact boxes, while lighter items can be placed in larger ones. Consider the space in your moving vehicle and choose boxes that can stack together efficiently.
It is also important to know which packing materials to use and err on the side of buying more than you think you need. Having extra supplies is preferable to making a last-minute rush to the store on moving day.
Moving with plastic totes is not recommended due to their tendency to crack under heavy weight. It may seem cost efficient, but it’s best to avoid them. Similarly, avoid throwing a mishmash of random items into a trash bag as this can result in broken items when opened.
4. Don’t Pack too Heavy
When packing your book collection, it’s important to avoid overfilling boxes. Packing them too densely and making them too heavy increases the risk of them breaking. As a general guideline, try to keep boxes under 50 pounds. If you’re unsure of the weight, use a scale to measure it. If the box is difficult to lift onto the scale, it’s likely too heavy.
5. Don’t Leave Empty Space in Boxes
Empty space equals shifting, which can equal your favorite mug breaking or your ceramic spoon rest cracking. When packing fragile items, it’s important to leave enough room for bubble wrap and packing paper. Fill any empty space in boxes with packing material like packing paper, newspaper, or peanuts. To maximize space, wrap things in towels and tee shirts to fill empty space. This way, you can avoid packing boxes with only one type of item and make transportation easier.
6. Get Rid of Stuff
Before you move, take inspiration from Marie Kondo and declutter your belongings. By going through your items and getting rid of anything that doesn’t bring you joy, you’ll have less to pack, load, and unload, making the entire moving process much easier.
As you pack, go room by room and categorize your joyless items into piles to toss, donate, or sell. This methodical approach will ensure that you only bring with you the things that truly spark joy.
7. Pack an Overnight Bag
To ensure a smooth transition into your new home, it is important to plan ahead. Prepare an overnight bag with toiletries, clothing, and any other essentials you will need until you have unpacked and settled in. This will save you from the hassle of searching for items amidst the chaos of moving.
Moving into a new home is never easy. But if you plan ahead and take time to make sure your items are packed correctly and in order, as well as getting rid of things you don’t need, your move will go as smoothly as possible.
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