If you want a stress-free move, it’s important to learn how to pack household items for moving. Many people overlook packing until the last minute, but it’s a critical component of any relocation, especially if you’re packing yourself. It goes without saying that most breakages and damage result from improper packing and handling. Here are a few tips for packing for your next move.

How to Pack Household Items for Moving

Different household goods will have to be handled differently to ensure they’re correctly packed, secured and can be moved easily. If you’re doing the packing yourself, below are some pointers on how to pack some commonly found household items.

Supplies

Some of the basic materials you should consider for household packing include:

• All fragile items should be wrapped individually in packing paper or bubble wrap.
• Secure the box at the bottom with additional tape so they don’t open when lifted.
• Consider investing in corrugated boxes that can be closed shut to secure your belongings.
• Plan on using lots of labels, markers and strong packing tape.
• Try to use plastics, bubble wrap and old newspapers to fill the empty spaces in each box.

Electronics

• Be sure to unplug all electronics.
• Remember to unplug your refrigerator at least 24 hours before the move to allow it to drain excess water and ice.
• Tape the inner plate in the microwave oven to prevent it from moving inside and breaking the glass door.
• Consult device manuals for any special instructions.
• Electronics with glass screens should be double packed to add an additional layer of protection.

Kitchenware

• Pack ceramic kitchenware and fragile china in bubble wrap.
• Wrap sharp cutlery and glass cups and vases with extra packaging.
• Place paper between all bowls/cups/plates to prevent them from breaking or chipping.
• Wrap utensils and cutlery in bubble wrap before putting them in boxes.
• Vases/glasses should all be double wrapped in bubble wrap and paper.

Small Furniture Products

• Protect the surfaces with a bedsheet or moving blankets to prevent scratches.
• Cover the edges fully to prevent chipping.
• Protect all surfaces because the chances are these products will be double stacked in the moving truck.

Other Items

• Use large bags to pack shoes and clothes.
• You can pack books in multiple small boxes. Avoid large boxes because books are heavy.
• Pack photo frames by placing packaging paper them.
• When it comes to pianos, musical instruments and fine art, consult your service provider as these items all have unique packing requirements.

One of the most important things is to talk to the movers about the items you’ll be carrying to your new premises. You want to disclose all critical details about the items you’ll be moving so the movers can have an easier time organizing everything from a loading, moving and unloading point of view.

Bottom Line

Remember, moving is simple if you start the planning process early. If you know how to pack household items for moving and prepare accordingly, the moving process will be seamless. It’s also recommended that you declutter before moving, that way you don’t bring excess items to the new place. The trick is to pack everything thoroughly to avoid damage or loss of property during the moving process.

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