You know what’s exciting? Moving to a new apartment. Not so exciting? The packing process. Moving everything you own can be pretty stressful. This is going to take some strategizing, and stress-free moving begins with an expert packing process.
Collect Boxes
A few months before moving day, start collecting cardboard boxes–you’ll need tons of them! Anytime you order something online, save the box, and ask your friends to do the same. Although it’s possible to buy boxes, we bet you can find a handful of people who will be willing to give them away for free. The sooner you start collecting, the sooner you can begin packing, which will lead to a less stressful moving day.
Start Early
Don’t leave all your packing until the week before the move–you’ll have plenty of other things to worry about! Begin the packing process several weeks in advance with items you hardly use. For example, if you’ll be moving in the summertime, there’s no reason you can’t pack away heavy blankets and winter clothing and boots right away.
Label Like Crazy
Part of creating a stress-free moving day for yourself is making the unpacking process easier. To accomplish this feat, it’s a good idea to pack similar items with each other–e.g. put all of your dishes in one box and all of your cleaning supplies in another–then, go crazy with the labeling. Although writing “bedroom” is a good start, you’ll be doing yourself a big favor if you get more specific. Label with a list of what’s in the box in addition to where it goes in your new apartment.
Keep a Box of Essentials
After a long day of moving, the last thing you’ll want to do is dig through piles of cardboard boxes to find a fork so you can eat your dinner. Set aside one box for all the essentials you’ll need during your first night in your new digs–from a cup and plate to a towel and change of clothes.
Pack Smarter, Not Faster
If you give yourself plenty of time to pack, you’ll be able to do it more efficiently. To minimize the number of boxes you’ll need, get rid of any unwanted items and place lightweight belongings, such as sheets, in your dresser drawers.
Get more tips and free moving quotes in our Rent. Moving Center.
