Chapter 2: Packing

Gather your moving materials in advance

 

It’s always a good idea to prepare for a move as early as possible. Part of that preparation should be collecting the materials you will need to facilitate your move, namely boxes, packing tape, permanent markers, packing peanuts, etc. 

 

Start collecting boxes of various sizes as early as possible. Check your local stores, such as your local grocery stores, to see if they have any boxes they are getting rid of. This will help save you money, as you won’t need to purchase boxes before your move!

 

You may also want to start collecting newspapers and other items that you can use as packing insulation to protect your items. Newspapers are especially useful for wrapping and stuffing fragile items – such as glass – protecting these items during the move. 

 

Start packing inconsequential items early

 

We all have items that we do not use regularly in our homes. When moving, it’s a great idea to pack these belongings in boxes in advance. Ideally, you should start to pack these items away around 4 weeks before your moving date.

 

Set aside the essentials

 

Set aside the essential items you’ll need during the last few days in your old home and your first few days in your new home. The “essentials” include things like a change of clothes, toiletries, medicines, essential documents, etc.

 

Packing Tips

• Make a checklist for each room so that you don’t forget any items.

• Set-up a packing station in each room with all your packing materials (boxes, newspapers and packing peanuts, tape, and markers).

• Label boxes with the items they contain and which room they belong in (ex. “Master Bedroom – Jane’s clothes”). 

• Do not overfill boxes. Ensure they are easily taped closed.

• Limit the weight of each box to no more than 15kg (32 lbs). This will make moving boxes easier. 

• Use smaller boxes for heavier items and larger boxes for lighter items. This will help you limit the weight of each box while ensuring you can fit the most items in each box.

• Label each box with your contact details (in the unlikely event your items are misplaced or lost).

• Use common symbols on boxes to indicate if items are fragile, which way is upright, etc.

• Ensure the bottoms of boxes are reinforced enough to prevent the boxes from breaking and your contents from spilling out during the move. 

• Wrap fragile items in newspapers and stuff fragile boxes with packing peanuts.

• Try using vacuum packs for items like clothing to save space.

• For furniture with legs, such as couches, tables, and chairs, tape the legs to the bottom of the furniture to ensure they do not get lost during the move.

• Use resealable plastic bags to store screws and bolts for furniture that needs to be reassembled in your new home. Ensure you clearly label these bags and keep them in a safe place.

• Make a “unpack first” box that includes some of the essential items you’ll need when you arrive at your new home: bed sheets, pillows and pillowcases, towels, pyjamas, toothbrushes, change of clothes, etc.