You finally got your new house or apartment and you’re ready for your move, but there is still a major step you have to take: Packing.
This is a task that requires a ton of work and planning to get right, but it’s incredibly important. After all, your items’ security is at stake.
We want to make the entire moving process simple, including packing, which is why we put together this article detailing everything you need to know by answering the questions we have so often seen in our time spent in the moving and storage industry in Philadelphia.
When Should I Begin Packing for my Move?
In order to start packing, you need a plan. Packing for a move takes time, which is why you should start as far out as possible, even just planning early on. We put together this outline detailing each step you need to take throughout the move:
6-8 Weeks Out: This is the planning stage. You will decide everything from whether or not you will use professional movers and have them pack for you, what you will put in storage if anything, and what you will need to have packed separately for moving day.
4-6 Weeks Out: There are two steps for this time period. The first is decluttering. Try to sell the items that you don’t need or can replace easily or donate them. Toss any items that you can’t sell or donate. The other step is ordering all of your packing supplies.
2-3 Weeks Out: Begin the packing process, handling items that you don’t need on a day-to-day basis.
1 Week Out: Finish packing all of your items and prepare your items that you will have on hand for moving day.
By following this outline, you will be able to stay on top of your move. Avoid surprises by keeping up with the packing process.
What Packing Materials do I Need?
There are a ton of packing supplies that are needed to make moving simple and to ensure the security of your items, preventing potential damage. To keep your items truly safe, you will need packing supplies such as:
- Belts
- Bubble Wrap
- Dollies
- Moving Blankets
- Moving Boxes
- Plastic, Stackable Totes
You should also keep an eye out for items that require specialty packing equipment. This most often comes in the form of made-to-fit packing boxes. Things like Dish Packs, Wardrobe Cartons, and the like are perfect for certain items or groups of items but can come at a higher cost.
What Should I Pack First for My Move?
It can be incredibly difficult to start the packing process. As they say, the hardest step in a run is the first one. This often comes from uncertainty, especially with where to begin. To help, we put together this list of the top 5 places to start packing, in order:
- Any Items Going to Storage Whether in Philadelphia or Elsewhere
- Out of Season Clothes and Decorations
- Fine China
- Decorative Items
- Books (That You Aren’t Currently Reading)
After conquering this list, you will have made a sizable dent that will get you started on the right path to finishing all of your packing.
Other Questions You May Have About Packing
There are many questions that we have heard while helping out with moves in the Philadelphia area. Here are a few that we have heard time and time again:
Can I Just Use Big Boxes to Save Money?
Be careful with using bigger boxes. While the idea of having to buy fewer boxes is tempting, after all that means less moving, there is a cap to this. Boxes can only hold so much, and people can only lift so much. We recommend not packing more than 40-50 pounds in a box. Bigger boxes are meant for large, yet light objects, such as a winter coat or bedding.
When to Start Packing to Move an Apartment
There are many differences between moving a house and an apartment. Time may not be the biggest factor here but the size is. While many houses have basements or attics to store items, apartments don’t, other than the occasional storage locker space. You will have to make a careful determination of what you have room for while packing.
How Can Professional Movers Help with Packing?
Packing can be challenging, but packing securely while minimizing potential damage is nearly impossible without the proper training. That’s where professional movers come in. If you’re already having a moving company handle your move, ask if they offer professional packing services.
Final Thoughts
As you can see, there is a lot that goes into packing. However, with the right knowledge and planning, the process will become more and more simple and you will be able to minimize worry and take away the chance of disaster.
Good luck with your move and enjoy your new home!