4 Essential Tips for Organized, Proactive Packing Before a Move

Did you just purchase a home, or are you getting ready for a huge remodel?  Are you upsizing or downsizing?  We have worked with so many homeowners during the moving process and have some helpful tips to share that will make your move easier and less stressful!

1. Declutter Before Packing

How many of us like packing and unpacking boxes?  Now imagine going through the act of packing up a box, getting to your new space, and realizing that all or most of the items should have been in the donate pile! Ugh! Such a waste of time and energy, not to mention the investment of the packing materials and the moving labor. Not only have I seen this happen so many times, I've done it myself over and over again.  Some of us have to learn the hard way and I, my friend, am no stranger to that! 

While packing boxes, take a moment and really reflect on the value those items you want to bring to your new space. Seriously! Will they make you happy when you open the box, or are you going to be annoyed that you couldn't let them go when you had the chance? Sometimes, when you allow yourself to declutter, it means saving a couple of bucks that you could then spend on something new and fabulous! I'm just sayin’… I have these talks with myself daily!  LOL!

2. Simplify the Process

Create a portable bin with moving essentials in one place to take from room to room while packing.   Make sure to include packing tape, scissors, sharpies, cleaning supplies, box cutters, and don't forget the colorful stickers!

3. Over-Label Everything for Easy Move-In

Put yourself in a stranger’s shoes.  Most of us are using a moving company or helpers who don't necessary know where things are going to be placed.  No one wants to man the door for hours directing boxes and items to the correct room. From the very beginning, over-label with colorful stickers that show where each item will be placed.  Movers will be able to pack up the truck in a more organized fashion so that offloading will be more time efficient, ultimately saving you money! Finally, when you get to your new place, make sure each room is color coded clearly at the doorway so that the movers know where to place each labeled item when they get there.

4. Keep Your Essential, Everyday Items Separate

We all know that construction and moving can produce unfortunate time delays. Pack a dedicated bag with your everyday essentials that you can keep with you. Do not put that box or bag on the truck, just in case they run into a problem transporting your items! Include items like PJ's, toiletries, medications, toothbrushes, and obviously your wallet/purse. Last, but not least, don't forget to pack your patience!  Moving pretty much sucks, but the end result is usually amazing and worthwhile!

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Xoxo,
Jeanelle