How To Pack For A Move?

Moving to a new home can be both exciting and stressful. The key to a smooth transition is proper packing. Whether you're moving across town or to a different state, having an organized approach can save you time, effort, and even money. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to efficiently pack for a move.

Step 1: Gather Packing Supplies

Before you begin packing, make sure you have all the necessary supplies:

• Sturdy moving boxes in various sizes

• Packing tape and a tape dispenser

• Bubble wrap and packing paper for fragile items

• Permanent markers for labeling

• Trash bags for decluttering

• Plastic bins for important documents and valuables

  
  

Step 2: Declutter and Organize

Moving is the perfect opportunity to get rid of unnecessary items. Sort your belongings into four categories:

• Keep – Items you use regularly and will need in your new home.

• Donate/Sell – Items in good condition that you no longer need, the Salvation Army & Goodwill are great places to donate. Some other companies pick stuff up for FREE.

• Recycle – Items that are broken or worn out but can be recycled.

• Trash – Anything that cannot be reused or repurposed.

Host a garage sale or donate items to charity to lighten your load before packing.

Step 3: Pack Room by Room

Packing systematically can make unpacking easier. Follow these tips for efficiency:

• Start with non-essential items – Pack things you don’t use daily first, such as seasonal clothes and decorations.

• Label everything – Clearly mark boxes with their contents and destination room.

• Use color coding – Assign a different colored label or tape for each room to simplify unpacking.

• Pack heavier items in smaller boxes – This prevents boxes from becoming too heavy and difficult to carry.

  
  

Step 4: Protect Fragile Items

• Wrap breakable items, such as dishes and glassware, in bubble wrap or packing paper.

• Use towels, blankets, or clothing to cushion delicate items.

• Label fragile boxes clearly and indicate which side should face up.

Prepare the Box

• Reinforce the bottom of the box with extra tape.

• Line the bottom with crumpled packing paper or towels to absorb impact.

Wrap Each Dish Individually

• Lay a dish on a sheet of packing paper.

• Fold the edges of the paper over the dish and roll it up.

• For extra protection, wrap in bubble wrap if necessary.

Pack Plates Vertically

• Stack plates on their sides, like records, rather than flat. This reduces pressure and risk of breakage.

• Place crumpled paper between them for cushioning.

Stack Bowls and Cups Carefully

• Nest bowls together with padding between them.

• Wrap cups individually and place them upright.

• If packing mugs with handles, wrap the handles with extra paper for protection.

Fill Empty Spaces

• Use crumpled packing paper, towels, or clothing to fill gaps in the box to prevent shifting.

Seal and Label

• Close the box and shake it gently—if you hear movement, add more padding.

• Seal the box securely with packing tape.

• Label it "FRAGILE – DISHES" and indicate "This Side Up".

  
  

Step 5: Pack an Essentials Box

Set aside a box with items you’ll need immediately after moving. Include:

• Toiletries

• Change of clothes

• Medications

• Important documents

• Phone chargers

• Snacks and basic kitchen supplies

  
  

  How to Pack a Washer and Dryer

  Moving a washer and dryer isn’t common, but when it happens, proper preparation is key!

  If you have a front-loading washer, try to locate the shipping bolts—these secure the drum during transit to prevent damage. If you’re hiring professional movers, have the bolts ready to hand off for installation.

  Before moving, check if your washer and dryer plugs match the outlets at your new home. If they don’t, you can purchase the correct plug at any home improvement store. Also, consider replacing old dryer hoses during the move—this is the perfect time for a fresh, new hose!

  
  

Step 6: Hire Movers or Enlist Help

If you’re hiring professional movers, book them well in advance. If you’re moving on your own, ask friends or family for help. Renting a moving truck or using portable storage containers can also make the process smoother.

Step 7: Final Checks

Before leaving your old home, do a final walkthrough to ensure nothing is left behind. Check closets, cabinets, and storage areas. Make sure all utilities are turned off and keys are handed over to the landlord or new owner.

How to pack electronics

1. Original boxes (if available)

2. Bubble wrap, foam padding, anti-static bags

3. Strong boxes, packing tape, silica gel packets

4. Cable organizers, labels, and markers

2. Prepare Devices

• Back up data and remove batteries, accessories, and power cords.

• Power down devices before packing.

3. Wrap and Protect

• Wrap devices in bubble wrap or foam.

• Cover screens with a soft cloth or protector.

• Use original packaging if possible.

• Pack small accessories in labeled bags.

4. Organize and Secure

• Bundle cables with ties and store in labeled pouches.

• Use sturdy boxes, placing heavier items at the bottom.

• Fill gaps with foam or crumpled paper.

• Include silica gel packets for moisture control.

5. Label and Store Properly

• Mark boxes as “FRAGILE”.

• Use strong tape to seal securely.

• Store in a dry, temperature-controlled space.

  
  

• Conclusion

Packing for a move doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With proper planning, organization, and a systematic approach, you can make your moving experience hassle-free. Follow these tips, and you’ll be well on your way to settling into your new home with ease!

Friendly Reminder

Particleboard furniture is made from wood by-products, primarily sawdust, combined with plastic resin glues and pressed into large sheets. Due to its inherent structural weakness, this type of furniture is prone to damage during moves. While we take every precaution to handle it with care, its design limitations make it vulnerable. Therefore, like most moving companies, we cannot be held responsible for damages beyond the TXDOT guidelines.

Additionally, items packed by the owner are moved at the owner's risk. We cannot be responsible for any damages to items packed in boxes by the owner beyond the TXDOT and FDACS guidelines.