Packing all your belongings in preparation for a move is never an easy task; however, you can make moving a bit less painful for yourself and your family members. By engaging in organized packing, instead of haphazardly stowing your belongings, you make the task of unpacking easier. It also reduces the likelihood that your prized possessions are damaged in transit to your new abode.
Use Linens as Padding
Instead of filling boxes or baskets with bulky linens, put them to good use by using them as padding. Wrap your wooden belongings with bath towels to protect them from the potentially damaging move. Use your kitchen towels to wrap your breakable cups. Cover the corners of your end tables and night stands with blankets to reduce the likelihood that this furniture will be damaged.
Label with Room Names
Print the name of the room in which you would like each box placed prominently on each moving container. By doing this, you allow movers to determine where each box needs to go without your assistance, allowing you to dedicate your time to a different task. While you likely still want to note the specific contents of each box, this can be done in less prominent print as it is not as important as the intended box location.
Prepare a First Night Kit
On the night of your move, you will likely not be up to tackling some of your more serious unpacking. Prepare for this first night in your new place by declaring one box your first night kit. Fill the box with toiletries, a few bath towels, medications and a pair of pajamas and a change of clothing for each family member. This box will allow you to make it through your first night without struggling to locate your necessaries.
Create a Prioritization Code
All the boxes that will fill your new residence may be overwhelming. Prepare yourself to more effectively determine what needs to be unpacked first by setting up a prioritization code. Label the boxes with the most important contents, such as things that you will need within the first day or two, with a “1.” Write a “2” on boxes containing things that you will need during the first week in your new home. Place a “3” on boxes containing objects that you can do without for several weeks. Finally, put a “4” on any boxes containing items that you intended to leave in storage or unpack only as time allows. When you begin your unpacking process, move through the boxes systematically, turning your attention to the 1s first, continuing through the levels until all boxes are unpacked.
