Declutter & Organize Before Packing

• Sort through your belongings—decide what to keep, donate, or discard. A garage sale is a great way to reduce clutter.
• Properly dispose of hazardous materials like paint, fuel, gas cylinders, and other flammables.
• Drain fuel from lawnmowers, trimmers, and other gas-powered equipment.
• Evaluate your wardrobe—if you haven’t worn it in a year, consider donating it to a charity shop.
• Organize books into categories: ones to keep, donate, or recycle.
• Check electrical appliances to ensure they will work in your new home.
• Create a list of address updates for banks, subscriptions, and essential services.
• Set up mail forwarding with the Post Office.
• Schedule utility disconnections (electricity, gas, water, phone, internet) and arrange services at your new home.
• Use original packaging for delicate electronics like stereos and TVs if possible.
• Have carpets and rugs cleaned before moving.
• Pack a travel bag for kids with favorite toys, books, and comfort items.
• Gather important documents—marriage/birth certificates, driver’s licenses, medical records, and insurance papers.
• Keep passports and essential paperwork separate to avoid accidental packing.
• If moving internationally, check import regulations for your car and any duties payable.
• Ensure pet vaccinations and records are up to date for a smooth transition.
• Plan for storage if your new home isn’t move-in ready.
• Research your new community—schools, local shops, entertainment, and lifestyle options.
• Use up frozen foods and pantry items in the weeks leading up to your move.
• Review and adjust your financial accounts—transfer or close accounts if needed.

Essential Packing Materials

Using quality packing supplies can prevent damage and make moving easier. Consider the following materials:

• Durable moving boxes (available in various sizes, including specialty cartons for fragile items).
• Plastic bags and labels for organizing small items.
• Packing peanuts or Styrofoam pellets to cushion delicate items.
• Tissue or craft paper for wrapping breakables.
• Corrugated paper rolls for added protection.
• Strong packing tape (1.5–2 inches wide) or twine to secure boxes.
• Permanent markers and labels to identify contents.
• Notebook and pencil for an inventory log.
• Scissors and a utility knife for quick adjustments.

🔴 Avoid using food boxes from grocery stores, as they may contain insect eggs or contaminants.

Packing Strategies for an Efficient Move

• Tackle one room at a time to stay organized.
• Pack a few boxes per day to avoid last-minute stress.
• Clearly label each box with its destination room and number.
• Keep an inventory log with notes on valuable or fragile items.
• Use ample packing material to prevent items from shifting.
• Secure the bottom of boxes with reinforced tape to support weight.
• Use packing tape, not masking tape, for better adhesion.
• Pack heavier items at the bottom of each box and lighter items on top.
• Stick to a 50-pound weight limit per box for easier handling.

Packing Dishware & Kitchen Items

• Use a medium-sized carton lined with crumpled packing paper.
• Wrap plates in stacks of three with layers of packing paper between them.
• Place dish bundles on their edges (never flat) for better protection.
• Fill empty spaces with crumpled paper to prevent movement.
• Label boxes as “FRAGILE” and stack them carefully.

Packing Glassware & Fragile Items

• Stuff glasses and stemware with crumpled paper before wrapping.
• Wrap each piece individually, rolling in multiple layers of packing paper.
• Place glasses upright in a box—never on their sides.
• Use dividers or corrugated inserts for extra protection.
• Separate each layer of glassware with padding to prevent breakage.

Special Packing Tips for Household Items

• Dressers & Drawers: Avoid overloading; remove fragile or valuable items. Firearms must be registered with your moving company.
• Canned Goods & Non-Perishables: Pack upright and limit to 24–30 cans per box. Avoid moving perishables.
• Frozen Foods & Plants: Movers typically won’t transport frozen food beyond 150 miles or for moves longer than 24 hours.
• Clocks: Remove pendulums and secure internal parts. Grandfather clocks should be handled by specialists.
• Curtains & Drapes: Fold and pack in wardrobe cartons or clean boxes.
• Lamps & Lampshades: Remove bulbs, roll cords, and pack upright in tissue-lined boxes. Avoid newspaper ink contact with fabric.
• Mirrors, Paintings & Pictures: Use specialized boxes, place tape across mirrors for reinforcement, and avoid direct newspaper contact with artwork.
• Electronics (Computers, TVs, Video Equipment): Use original boxes when available. Wrap cords separately and label them. Ensure computers are “parked” before transport.
• Silverware: Wrap each piece in low-sulfur paper to prevent tarnishing. Use padded chests when possible.
• Power Tools: Drain fuel before moving. Wrap sharp tools separately and pack in sturdy boxes.
• Waterbed Mattresses: Drain completely before moving. Follow manufacturer guidelines for safe transport.
• Vehicles & Motorcycles: Drain fuel and disconnect batteries. Ensure antifreeze levels match climate needs.
• Barbecue Grills & Propane Tanks: Wrap grates and store separately. Propane tanks must be emptied.

Ready to Move?
Let’s Make It Stress-Free!

Packing efficiently takes planning, the right materials, and attention to detail. By following these tips, you’ll ensure your belongings arrive safely at your new home.

📦 Need professional packing assistance? Contact Hemsted’s Moving & Storage today! 🚛