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OK--you've done it...said goodbye to all your soon-to-be-former
neighbors, secured that new living space for when you get to where
you are going, and made arrangements with every possible utility
and service provider for your old home and new home as well. Now
it's time to pack everything up for the trip to the new place. Whether
you are moving just around the corner or across the globe, how you
pack the precious items you have spent a lifetime collecting will
determine exactly how successful the move really is.
It is imperative that you exercise extreme caution in planning
your packing. A little forethought goes a long way where packing
is concerned: It will pay off in the long run. Sturdy boxes, packing
tape, bubble wrap, and packing peanuts can all be purchased at most
local self-storage companies. These days, it is easier and more
convenient to simply order
these items online. Wardrobe boxes and other specialty boxes
can be found there too. While wadded-up newspaper, old pillows and
blankets make for great padding in a pinch, it is best that you
purchase the materials that are intended for the job---more than
one person has regretted using grandma's favorite knitted afghan
as moving padding for their delicate furniture--right after they
discover the newly-engraved pattern on the outer face of the piece.
- The following is a list of tools and materials to make your
packing go more smoothly:
- Razor knife and/or scissors
- Note pad
- Dark, water-resistant marker
- Boxes of all sizes
- Packing tape
- Bubble wrap
- Packing peanuts
Pack one room at a time:
Labeling each box appropriately (on top and side) with a description
of its contents and which room the box belongs in. Also label boxes
containing breakable or sentimental items with "Fragile."
Keep a detailed list of what items are packed in each box to make
unpacking easier.
Empty all drawers:
Empty all drawers of breakable or spillable items. To safeguard
against unnecessary damage, it's a good idea to put all furniture
knobs, feet, screws, etc. in one container that you can keep with
you so the parts won't get lost.
Wrap items individually:
Always place a layer of crushed paper in the bottom of the carton
for cushioning. Fill empty spaces with additional crushed paper.
Pack your truck judiciously:
Make sure the items you'll need first are loaded in last when packing
the truck. You'll make access easier for the things you need (ie.
kids toys, kitchen items, telephone and radio).
Plan ahead:
Plan ahead for what you'll need the first day after your move. Packing
a separate bag with your toiletries, a change of clothes, etc. will
prevent unnecessary scrambling or a run to the local store.
Plan your move on a Weekday:
Move on a weekday, if possible. Banks, utilities and government
offices will be open if you need them.
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