Moving can be so stressful! Especially if you’ve lived somewhere for a long period of time or you move pretty frequently. There was a time when Clayton and I moved five times within a 2-year period and two of those moves were across the country (TX to WA, WA back to TX), needless to say, we became expert movers. Okay, well maybe not experts, but we definitely learned some tips and tricks that could be useful to pass along. My in-laws are currently moving to another state and it’s brought back all those memories so I figured it would be helpful to share some things we’ve learned throughout all of our moves and what we would do differently now.
1. Leave clothing on hangers & cover with trash bags
The best method I found is to group about ten hangers/items of clothing together, cover with a trash bag and then secure hangers together with a zip-tie. This method makes it so easy to pack up an entire closet. Not only does it keep the clothing clean, but it also saves money since there is no need for wardrobe boxes.
2. Have an “open-first” box so you have everything you need for the first night
I’ve put together a checklist of essential items you may need for the first night in your new place.
•Toilet paper •Paper Towels
•Garbage Bags
•Pajamas •Toiletries
•Phone Chargers
•Disposable plates, cups, and utensils
•Shower curtain and hooks
•Sheets and blankets
Pro tip: Put a fresh bag in your trash can and then fill it up with these items instead of a box so then you’ll also have a place for trash!
3. Use clothing, blankets or towels to wrap breakables.
Utilizing items you already own like scarves, towels, etc. to protect breakables will keep them from getting damaged in the move and save you time since you’re going to have to pack those things anyway.
Pro tip: Stick your glassware inside individual socks to cushion them
4. Use clear storage bins
Try buying several clear storage bins as well instead of only packing with cardboard boxes so it is easier to see what’s inside of them. You can reuse them later on for garage storage. They are more expensive, but they will definitely come in handy later on. My favorites can be found here.
5. Label with different colored duct tape instead of writing directly on the box
You can keep the boxes looking neat by writing only on the tape and assigning a different color to each room so the movers (or anyone) will know exactly where each box should go in the new place.
Pro Tip: List some specific items that are in the box on the label as well. This is especially helpful when it’s full of miscellaneous items.
6. Label the side of your boxes vs the top
This is an especially important tip for cardboard boxes- then you are able to see what’s in them even when stacked.
7. Take advantage of grocery delivery services
Schedule to have groceries delivered to your new place on move-in day! Then you don’t have to take a whole bunch of food with you, you won’t have to worry about going grocery shopping, and you’ll have fresh food!
8. Remove dresser drawers with contents inside and wrap with plastic wrap
This makes the dresser so much lighter to move, you won’t need to use any extra boxes or unpack them. You just unwrap, put the drawers back and you’re good to go!
9. Pack cleaning supplies last
If you’re needing to clean your old home before you move you’ll want to wait until everything is cleared out, so it’s best to pack that box last.
10. Tape bolts & screws to furniture
This is to ensure that pieces do not get lost, but also so you won’t have to worry about looking through several boxes to find them in order to put your furniture together. Grab a Ziplock baggie, add the bolts & screws and tape the baggy to the back of that specific piece of furniture.
11. Fill up your suitcases!
Since you’ll need to pack them anyway, utilize the bags you already have. This will save money on boxes (or the hassle of finding boxes) and make awkward items much easier to carry.
Pro Tip: Pack up books or anything heavy in rolling suitcases so you aren’t having to carry heavy, bulky boxes. You’ll thank me later!
12. Use vacuum sealed storage bags for big, bulky items
This is essential when it comes to bedding and big winter jackets since they take up so much space. The vacuum storage bags will be really useful later on, as well, for seasonal items that need to be stored away after the move. You can find my favorites here.
Also, if you are moving to Texas, be sure to call a professional to help you too so you aren’t so stressed out during this time. One company that comes highly recommended is Gameday Moving Services Houston. They are a loyal, trustworthy and reliable business that offers a variety of services including labor only, apartment moving and long-distance moving in Houston, Texas. They are there to help you every step of the way, pack up your belongings with care and move your possessions with ease.
So that sums up my top twelve moving tips, tricks, and hacks! I hope this list is as helpful to you as it has been to me over the years. Please comment down below and let me know which ones are your favorite and if you ended up using any in your move!
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