Packing Tips

Packing can be the most daunting and time consuming part of moving house. We would like to share with you some ideas on how to get on top of that packing so you are all ready to go come moving day.

• Packing starts out being fun but can soon get boring. Make yourself feel better about it by setting deadlines (i.e. a week to pack up the garage etc) and keeping to them!
• Under packing is almost as bad as over packing and the contents of under packed boxes are MUCH more likely to be damaged. Pack heavy items such as books in small boxes will be easier to lift.
• Mark boxes by room numbers and contents.  Then number the room doors in the new house so people can match the box with the right room number.
• Write OPEN FIRST on boxes of essential items and DO NOT MOVE on boxes you're planning on taking in a separate vehicle.  
• Don't leave all you’re packing to the last day. You'll be up all night and still not get it done right. But don't beat yourself up if you don't get everything done. The majority of us will run round in a flat panic as moving day approaches. If you're pushed for time it doesn't matter if you just box up non-fragile items quickly or even just stuff them in bags.
• Try not to wrap fragile items in newspaper, as the print will come off on them. You'll just have to wash everything before you can put it away. And, newsprint doesn't generally come off well in a dishwasher so chances are you'll be washing them by hand. If you don't want to buy wrapping materials save up magazines for a few weeks beforehand.
• Don't use newspaper to wrap around lampshades - chances are you'll not be able to get the newsprint off again!
• Get one of your friends to do a last walk-round your old house with you before you leave. A fresh pair of eyes can often spot things you've left behind.
• If you're in the habit of hanging clothes or stuff behind bedroom doors remember to check them as well. This is one of the most common places people forget stuff.
• Leave clothes in drawers and transport cabinet with drawers in.