One aspect of a move that is absolutely unavoidable is the packing. It can also be the most tedious and emotional part of the move. This is because it means you’re leaving behind memories, even if your new home and situation are an improvement. Even if your movers in Orlando offer packing services, there are still some aspects of the packing process that you need to manage. Here are some helpful ways to make the packing process easier for you and your family.
Know What Not To Pack
Knowing what not to pack is just as important as knowing what to pack. Movers in Orlando cannot move alcohol, barbeque propane, lighter fluid, firearms, ammunition, paint thinner, solvents and anything corrosive or combustible. We also cannot move live plants.
Move these items in your own vehicle, or it may be more economical to replace them once you’ve moved. In that case, give these items to family or neighbors who can use them, or dispose of them properly. Also, make sure that you pack and transport your own valuables, such as vital documents, cash or heirlooms. If they’re small enough, keep them with you, in a travel safe, or in a safe deposit box.
Clear A Pathway
Make sure you have a clear pathway for you or your professional movers to put boxes on the truck. Pick up any throw rugs and create a clear path. If your floor is particularly slippery, take large pieces of painters’ tape and create “x’s” along high traffic areas. This will create traction and prevent slipping.
Know What’s Packed In Each Box
If you’re packing alone or with family, this is doubly important, because everyone packs differently. Don’t just simply add a vague label, like “kids toys”, write a list of all of the items inside like “Play house, table and chairs, doll beds.” This will give you a precise idea of what is in every box. If you decide to hire a moving and packing company, take a cue from your movers in Orlando, 1776 Moving & Storage. They thoroughly label your boxes, and move them to the appropriate room in your new home. This takes the guesswork out of packing and unpacking.
Plastic Or Cardboard Boxes
At 1776 Moving & Storage, we offer storage solutions for any situation, long or short term. How long you plan to store your belongings should determine if you use cardboard or plastic boxes. Cardboard boxes can deteriorate over time, so if you plan on storing long term, you should use plastic boxes or bins. They offer protection from the elements and they do not deteriorate, especially if they’re in a climate controlled unit.
Pack A Bag Of “Must Haves”
Because you’ll be packing absolutely everything, you may need to pack a bag that has some overnight essentials to get you through the first few nights in your new home.
You May Want To Pack:
- Trial or travel sized toiletries
- OTC pain relievers
- A small first aid kit
- Toilet paper
- A change of clothes
- A spare set of glasses or contacts
- Paper plates and utensils
Make sure you have an alarm clock app, if you packed your alarm clock. Also, make sure your kids have apps, movies and games downloaded to keep them occupied. (Normally, it’s not the best idea to occupy kids with movies, games or phone and tablet apps, but moving can be dangerous. Apps and movies can keep kids out of harms way.)
Do An Entire Sweep Of The House
Go through the house and do a visual sweep, to make sure everything has been packed. When you arrive at your new home, do a similar sweep before your moving company leaves. If you hire a reputable moving company, like 1776 Moving & Storage, there won’t be much chance that boxes will get damaged. But, regardless, you should check while your movers are there, in case a report needs to be filed. This is also a good time to have a “goodbye ceremony”. Saying goodbye to your home and recalling fond memories can give you and your family the closure to move on emotionally, while you move on physically.
De-Stress Your Move; Leave The Packing To 1776 Moving & Storage
1776 Moving & Storage helps you to manage this emotional and stressful time by offering packing solutions of every size and scope. We understand how to move your family, because we’re a family, too. Contact us to find out how we can pack your home and de-stress your move.
