Often times people wait until the last minute to being packing for their move. Generally this scenario has poor results that can include misplaced items and can leave your possessions damaged. By getting organized and creating a timeline several weeks before you being your move, you can start packing your belongings correctly and without the stress of the last minute hustle.
Start a file to keep all things related to your move safe and in one location. Include in the file the timeline you have created for the move, any records or receipts concerning the movers you hired or the self-storage unit you are renting. As many moving expenses are tax deductible storing your moving documents in one location will save you time during tax preparation.
Packing Supplies You Should Keep Handy
• Plenty of different sized boxes
• Permanent Marker
• Scissors
• Packing Tape
• Bubble Wrap
• Newspaper or Tissue
Pack a box of critical items that you will carry to your new home. This box should include everything you need to get by while your belongings are in transit or in a self-storage facility. Some things to consider including in this box of necessities are toilet paper, paper towels, soap, shampoo and conditioner, bottled water, snacks, first-aid kit, small tool kit, notebook and pen, an emergency contact list, and a few towels. There is nothing worse than arriving to your new home ahead of the movers and there is no toilet paper in the bathrooms!
One of the biggest nightmares that people experience during their move is hooking all of their electronics back up. Before you unhook and unplug everything make sure to create a diagram of how each piece correlates with another. Use color-coded labels to make sure you know exactly where each cable needs to go. Take your time and bundle all cables neatly so that you do not have to sort through a giant tangle of cords when it is time to set your electronics back up. If you saved the original boxes for any of your electronic equipment make sure to repack it in its box. These boxes are designed specifically to keep your equipment safe so why not take advantage of the extra protection!
As you begin to fill each box you will want to make sure that each one is filled to the top. You do not want to over stuff the box as this will cause the box to improperly close and could potentially expose your belongings to harm. Under filling the boxes will cause your belongings to shift about which may also cause damage and if a box is stacked on top of an under filled box it will likely be crushed. Use blankets and towels to fill in the gaps at the top of your box!
Always pack heavy objects in smaller boxes. If you have to use a large box only fill it half way with your heavy belongings and fill the top with pillows or other light objects.
Remember to write on each box the room where it belongs and if its contents are fragile. Also consider numbering each box and create a log which lists the box number and contents. If you need to retrieve something in a hurry you will know exactly which box to find it in. This also works great if you plan on storing your possessions in a self storage unit and there is a possibility that you might need to get something in one of the boxes at some point in time. Do not forget to write on sides of your boxes because if you write on the tops and they are stacked you will not be able to tell which box you are looking at!
By planning for your move in advance you can take care of your packing needs with ease! Just remember to take your time by starting several weeks before you move and pack a few boxes each

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