Packing Tips for Moving That Will Save You Time

Whether you work a full-time job or only have a couple of weeks left before a big move, you need new ways to pack efficiently. These tips on moving are designed to help streamline the process and reduce stress before the big day.

Start Early

Of all of the tips on moving in this article, be sure to heed this one. Putting off the packing process can contribute to huge amounts of stress as moving day approaches. Plus, the longer you wait to pack items, the more likely you will be to start shoving random things in boxes without sorting or protecting them.

You might run across some clothes that you never worn or kitchen equipment you rarely use. At this point, do not waste time feeling guilty about past purchases or lamenting over whether or not you should keep an item “just in case”. Chalk it up to experience, set the item aside to sell or donate, and move on.

Sort as You Go

Organizing your belongings always sounds like a good idea, but doing so can be time-consuming. Instead of taking multiple trips to your closet to purge, sort, and pack, try to combine the activities into one pass through the closet. Have a full-length mirror handy so you can quickly try on clothes before sorting them to keep, sell, or give away.

As you work through each room of your home, keep designated boxes on hand and label them on each side. Doing so will help you find things more easily in your new home. If you have been planning to move a small bookshelf into your bedroom, for example, go ahead and label those books for their new destination. Being systematic will help you work more efficiently and see progress as you go. It will also clear spaces, such as the medicine cabinet or bathroom drawer, so that they can be cleaned when you have a few spare minutes.

Enlist Help Throughout the Process

Are you dreading having to go through and pack your entire kitchen? Call a few friends, order a pizza, and enjoy the help. Having someone else on hand will also help you part with items that you do not really need. Keep in mind that the longer you physically hold an item, such as an old coffee mug, the more likely you are to want to keep it!

Friends can help with more than just packing, too. If you are running short on time, consider enlisting a friend or young relative to help you donate or sell items in exchange for a small commission.

Use Clothes as Packing Material

One of the best packing tips for moving is to use clothes as padding for delicate objects. Socks, shirts, and scarves can all be used to help protect delicate dishes. For other objects, start a box with a small layer of books. Fill up the rest of the box with knick-knacks and other breakables wrapped in your clothes.

Using just a few of these packing tips for moving will help you save time and reduce stress throughout the process.