How to keep packing and unpacking organized
When it comes to a moving process, one thing is certain. The packing process is the most tiresome and time-consuming. And it is because not only that you have to prepare everything and organize like a pro, but you must unpack in a similar fashion as well. Therefore, today we bring you a simple guide on packing and unpacking. Let us prepare you for the move of your life!
Essential supplies you need to conduct proper packing and unpacking
You should start packing preparations by collecting all materials that are required for this process. You can buy them online or visit your local hardware store. Furthermore, you can purchase the essentials from your local movers MD. Moving companies will bring everything you need, for a fair price. Whatever you choose, keep in mind that you’ll need the following:
- Moving boxes – For every move, you need at least 15 moving boxes. The cardboard ones are the preferred choice. Also, you should obtain a different size to accommodate all shapes and weights. Keep in mind that you can’t pack without them, so be sure to obtain higher quality ones as they are the base of your moving project.
- Plastic bins – Consider plastic bins as a viable option as well. They are extremely good but a bit more expensive. They are a long-term investment and best used for keeping your items air-tight. Good for moving fragile items, collectibles, memorabilia, etc.
- Cushion – Depending on your moving budget, you can either use Styrofoam, blister packs, packing peanuts, or use items at your home. What this means is that you are surrounded by items that can be used as a cushion for your box. Use old blankets, t-shirts, sheets, rags, cloth. Whatever you can spare. Place it on the bottom of your moving box and nest your items on top.
- Packing tape – After you filled in the gaps between items with crumpled paper or any other material, cover everything with packing paper. Close your box and seal it tight with packing tape. Apply several layers to strengthen your box.
Additionally, you will need a pair of scissors, and a knife, or a box-cutter. It will come in handy when you start cutting all those boxes and tapes.
Packing and unpacking your kitchen will be the hardest – do this one first!
We would advise you to layout a packing and unpacking plan for your kitchen first. This is because it is a place with the most random, small, and fragile items. Not to mention that there are sharp objects as well as many appliances. You must inform yourself on how to move large appliances as well as the small ones. Read manufacturers manuals for the best guidance. This is the first step before you start packing your kitchen. You must shut down the power source, detach cables and secure them, then, empty all liquids, oils, and chemicals.
Now, when you got that out of the way, start packing your dishes. Use medium-sized boxes and cradle your dishes properly. You will need a layer of cushion between each dish, and to fill in the gaps between to prevent the collision. And do not mix metal with glass or ceramics, for obvious reasons. Furthermore, save some space by stacking dishes into each other. This will make a box inside a box effect and you’ll need fewer boxes overall. Finally, wrap all your cutlery in kitchen cloths and cardboard and pack them as you like. Keep in mind that those are usually sharp objects, so keep them away from children.
Inspect all your belongings
Once you are done with the kitchen, move to other rooms in your home. As well as most of us, you have cloth items mostly. Remember not to waste too many boxes on this. Most of your clothes can be transported easily. Use sheets and blankets you have at home. Place them on a flat surface and stack your clothing in the middle. Then from all for sides make a wrap in the middle and tie in a knot. This will create a bundle that is not too heavy but it holds a lot.
Also, a good thing is to utilize garbage bags, vacuum bags, hangers, etc. All of it can be transported without using boxes. A really good way to move on a budget. But keep in mind that your more expensive and valuable pieces should be protected adequately. You know which ones, secure them in a box or transport using your personal vehicle.
Close your boxes and make sure they are sealed tight
It is important to close your boxes properly. If you leave any items sticking out you can either damage your goods or someone can get hurt. Therefore, apply several layers of packing tape and make sure that they are air-tight. Moreover, this is extremely important if you are packing your belongings for your Baltimore storage unit. If you decided to leave some items behind, or due to downsizing you have no space at the moment, storage is an option. But be sure to protect your boxes that will wait inside the storage for some time. Cover them with white sheets or a tarp. This will provide protection against dust and sunlight.
Labeling is the key to successful unpacking
Even if you purchased moving service Baltimore and you have a professional crew handling your items, you must label everything. Labeling your boxes is crucial for many reasons. The packing and unpacking process is much easier since you can always check what you packed, and you will easier find items once you start unpacking. Moreover, it is important for your movers to know what the boxes hold. This will raise awareness and they will be handled more gently.
Also, keep your boxes under 50lbs, especially if they hold fragile items. There is no need to overstuff your boxes and endanger your belongings. It is far better to have a couple of boxes more than to end up with a few less. Therefore, keep your boxes light, label moving boxes like a pro, and you are good to go.
And what about big items?
The big items always go first inside the moving truck, but when it comes to a packing process, you handle them last. It is important to inspect them all before you decide which ones need disassembling or special handling. Do as much as you can before your moving help arrives. But be sure that you protected the individual pieces by wrapping them. Also, do not lose all the nails, screws, and pins. Keep them in small bags labeled and secured. If you are unsure, or you do not want to do this part, consider hiring help from one of the moving companies in Maryland. Professional packers are what you might need. A whole packing process is done in a matter of hours, and all your items securely transported. You can even have them unpack you if that is your wish.
And now you should be ready for packing and unpacking. We are sure that this might look hard, but with a proper organization and a packing checklist, you’ll be fine. Follow this guide when the time comes, and you will stay on schedule. Remember, secure your items, but be sure you are safe as well. Good luck and we wish you a successful relocation.