How to Pack Like a Pro: Tips from Expert Movers

Moving from one place to another can be both exciting and challenging. It involves packing everything we possess, arranging everything, and ensuring everything arrives on time. Whether you’re moving yourself, hiring professionals, or using the help of a local moving company. At Gilbert Moving & Storage, we have been helping people to relocate since 2016. During this time, we have come across some learnings about efficient packing. So, here are some expert hacks that will make you a Pro in packing your stuff.

1. Starting Early And Create A Moving Checklist.

There are various steps to take care of when preparing to move. Due to this, time has become one of the most overlooked moving essentials. However, Starting early and having a good plan can make the process much easier and more efficient.

Start Packing Early 

If you start packing at least 4 to 6 weeks before your shifting date, you will feel less pressure for things. This early packing method allows you to plan your packing in stages. You can start with less-used items, such as old clothes, decorations, etc., and then move on to the frequently used items.

Create a Comprehensive Moving Checklist

A moving checklist helps you stay organized and focused. Here are some things you need to add while making a checklist:

1. Address Changes: while moving from one place to another, you should inform your landlord, neighbors, employer, banks, and subscription services of your new address.
2. Inventory Of Items: Go through each area and make a category of items like Keep, donate, and dispose of. Be honest about what you use and need.
3. Packing Task: Start Room by room and clearly label each box with its contents.
4. Utility Arrangements: Ask your utility providers to cancel or transfer the services to your new address.
5. Supplies: Use tight moving boxes, bubble wrap, and packing tape to protect your belongings.

Stay Organized

Keep updating your checklist, to avoid any last-minute surprises. By reviewing and looking at the checklist, the whole process becomes easy to track and it ensures that no detail is overlooked.

2. Properly Wrap Furniture and Breakables

It is crucial to properly wrap furniture and other delicate items because most of the times these things gets damaged due to improper packing and handling.

Use the Right Materials

To get your things in good condition, you can use the right materials like:

• Furniture Blankets: These blankets will help to wrap large types of furniture like sofas and tables so that they won’t get any dent or scratch.
• Bubble Wrap: if you have Breakables like glassware and ceramics, you can use bubble wrap for superior cushioning and shock absorption.
• Packaging Paper: to prevent scratches on dishes and other smaller objects you can use packaging paper.

Steps to Properly Wrap Furniture

• Disassemble When Possible: If there is some sort of opening for disassembling the furniture like bed frames and shelving units, the risk of damage will be reduced.
• Wrap-In Furniture Blanket: Each piece of furniture should be covered with a furniture blanket and tacked with a stretch wrap or tape.
• Use Bubble Wrap For Extra Protection: Before using furniture blankets you can apply bubble wrap to the corners and legs of furniture. This would act as an extra protection layer.
• Secure With Stretch Wrap: After which, you can use a stretch wrap. Which usually protects the furniture from moisture and dust.

Handling Fragile Items

There are some items like Mirrors, artwork, and glassware. Which are “Fragile Items” and need special care:

• Mirrors and Artwork: Items like these should be placed in picture boxes or padded boxes. The edges and corners should be covered with bubble wrap.
• Glassware and Dishes: You can wrap these items with packing paper and bubble wrap. And mention “Fragile” on the box, for better handling.

3. How To Pack Dishes And Glassware

When it comes to how to pack dishes to avoid them breaking, it becomes important for us to use the right techniques and materials. Make sure that glassware and dishes arrive in a single piece.

Use Adequate Packing Materials

When packing dishes, make sure to use:-

• Packing Paper:- Wrapping each dish with packing paper, provides a layer of cushioning and absorbs shock.
• Bubble Wrap:- Use bubble wrap as well, especially for delicate items.

Packing Techniques

• Wrap Each Item: Use packing paper and bubble wrap on each piece of dish or glassware.
• Pack Vertically:- Dishes should be packed vertically, like records. This technique helps distribute weight and reduces pressure on bottom dishes.
• Use Sturdy Boxes:- Good-conditioned double-walled boxes can be a strong choice for glassware and dishes. It provides support and prevents collapsing.
• Fill Empty Spaces:- If there is some space left after placing the dishes vertically, we need to fill it with additional packing paper and bubble wrap. This reduced the chances of dishes moving while in transit.

Tips for Packing Glassware

• Wrap Glassware Individually:- Glassware should also be individually wrapped with packing paper and bubble wrap.
• Use Dividers:- If possible, use box dividers specially designed for glassware.
• Label Boxes: Clearly, mention “Fragile” on the boxes that contain dishes and glassware.

4. Guide on How to Pack Art Frames

When we decide to move from one place to another, we want our precious and delicate items like “Artworks and Frames” to arrive properly. Here’s the guide on how to pack your art frames:-

Use the Right Packing Materials

First, arrange these materials:

• Bubble wrap:- For cushioning and protection
• Cardboard corners:- To protect the edges of the frames
• Packing Paper:- To provide extra layers of protection.

Steps for Packing Art Frames

1. Wrap Each Frame Individually:- First wrap each art frame with a bubble wrap, then secure it with a tape. And make sure not to tape directly on the glass as it will leave a residue.
2. Protect the Edges:- Use cardboard corners on each edge of the frame. This would prevent impacts during transit.
3. Prepare the Box:- Prepare a tight, perfectly sized box for the frames. Put some packing paper and bubble wrap at the bottom of the box, for extra safety.
4. Place frames Vertically:- Put the packed frames vertically in the boxes to prevent it from breakage.
5. Separate Frames with Padding:- Add extra padding of packing paper or bubble wrap to separate the frames within the box.
6. Seal and Label:- Seal the box properly and mention “Fragile” on the top.

5. How to Properly Pack a Flat-Screen TV

Flat Screen TV requires a lot of attention while packing. Everyone wants the TV to arrive safely, and here’s a guide on how to properly pack a flat-screen TV.

Use the Right Packing Materials

• Original Box:- Use the original box, which is specially designed to fit your TV.
• TV Box:- But if you don’t have the original box, purchase a specially designed TV box, which will fit the shape of a flat-screen TV.
• Soft Blanket:- To provide an extra layer of protection for the screen.
• Bubble Wrap;- To provide cushioning.
• Packing Peanuts:- To fill any empty spaces.

Steps for Packing a Flat Screen TV

1. Turn Off and Unplug:- First turn off all the TVs and unplug all the cables, accessories, and stands.
2. Cover the Screen:- Put a soft blanket or bubble wrap on the screen. And make sure there is no exposed tape on the screen.
3. Secure the Screen:- Then Bubble wrap the entire TV for extra cushioning and protection. Secure it with tape.
4. Prepare the Box:- If you have the original box make sure it is in good condition. If you’re using a new one make sure it fits well.
5. Place the TV in the Box:- Carefully put the wrapped TV in the box.
6. Fill Empty Spaces:- If there is any space left in the box, fill it with extra bubble wrap or packing peanuts.
7. Seal and Label:- Seal the box tightly and clearly label it as “Fragile”.

6. Maximize Space in Your Moving Truck

Loading your moving truck becomes an important task for a smooth and better move. You need to properly utilize the space so that everything fits well and ensure that your items are secured and protected during transit. Here’s the guide to maximize space in your moving truck.

Loading Techniques 

1. Place Heavy Items at The Bottom:- Place heavy items like furniture, appliances, and large boxes at the bottom of the truck. It will create a base for the other light items.
2. Stack Lighter Boxes on Top:- After the heavy items, place the lighter boxes on top. And make sure to put equal weight on each side of the truck to avoid tipping of things during movement.
3. Utilize Vertical Space:- Make sure to use the vertical space in the truck. Place items up to the ceiling and use the truck fully.
4. Use The Space Under Tables:- Wrap smaller and lightweight items and place them under tables, desks, and other furniture pieces.

Tips for Efficient Loading

• Create A Packing Plan:- Creating a plan before loading into the truck will help you to organize the items properly and it will minimize the need for last-minute rearrangements.
• Distribute Weight Evenly:- Make sure that weight is equally distributed across the truck. It prevents overloading at one side and creates balance.
• Secure Items:- To prevent items during transit, you can secure them by using moving straps, ropes, or bungee cords.

7. Consider Professional Help for a Stress-Free Move

The above packing and loading tips can be very effective. But with the expertise of professional apartment movers or house movers, you can greatly enhance your moving experience. As they offer services which could be a smart choice for you.

Services Offered by Gilbert Moving & Storage 

At Gilbert Moving & Storage, we offer a wide range of services. Specially designed for your needs:

• Local Moving Services:- If you’re moving across the town or within the same city, we offer seamless and efficient movement with our local moving services.
• Out-of-State Moving Operations:- Even for longer distances, we provide out-of-state moving services. Which handles all the logistics involved in relocation across different state lines.
• Safe Movers:- Our team of safe movers uses professional packing materials and techniques to handle your belongings with utmost care.

Choosing the Right Moving Company

When you are selecting a moving company, keep these details in mind:-

• Reputation and Reviews:- Research the company’s reputation and read customers to check their reliability and quality.
• Licensing and Insurance:- Make sure that the moving company is properly licensed and insured. Whether you are moving locally or out of state.
• Clear Pricing:- Ask them for a detailed estimate and understand the pricing structure to avoid any unexpected costs.

8. Choose a Reputable Moving Company

Choosing the right moving company becomes important to ensure a smooth and stress-free movement. Here are a few things you need to know for selecting a reputed moving company and what to look for to protect your belongings:

Verify Credentials 

• Check FMCSA Information:- To verify that the moving company is properly registered and compliant with federal regulations, you should check the FMCSA information (Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration).
• Confirm Licensing and Insurance:- Make Sure that the moving company has the appropriate licensing and insurance. Like state federal licenses which would protect your goods from getting damaged or lost during the shift.

Avoid Common Scams

1. Get Written Estimates:- Some companies provide estimates without conducting an in-person inspection of your goods, and ask for a higher price. So it’s better to obtain written estimates from multiple moving companies and compare them.
2. Understand the Contract:- Carefully check the moving contract. Ensure all details, including costs, service provided, and delivery items, and beware of the companies, which demand a large deposit upfront but have unclear terms.
3. Check For Complaints:- To keep a track record of a company’s customer service, check for any complaints or unresolved issues with consumer protection agencies, such as Better Business Bureau (BBB).

9. Prepare for Moving Day

After doing all the necessary checks and getting ready for moving day. You need to have a proper presentation of things, which can make the relocation to your new home easy and smoother. Here’s how you can prepare effectively for moving day:

Pack an Essentials Box

1. Identify Essential Items:- Prepare an essentials box with items that you’ll need immediately upon arrival at your new home.
2. Include Toiletries:- Pack essential toiletries such as soap, shampoo, toothpaste, and any personal care item that you use daily.
3. Pack Basic Kitchen Items:- Pack some basic kitchen items as well. Like a few utensils, cups, plates, and a coffee maker or a kettle to prepare immediate meals.
4. Gather Important Documents:- Keep important documents like IDs, medical records, moving contracts, and necessary paperwork in some safe or accessible place. So, you can find it easily when needed.

Additional Tips for Moving Day

1. Create a Moving Day Checklist:- This helps you to stay organized and ensures you don’t miss anything important.
2. Communicate with Movers:- Provide clear instructions to movers about the fragile items. And communicate with them for any special requirements.
3. Prepare for Unpacking:- After arriving at the new place, keep each item at its designated place, like for the kitchen, bedroom, etc.

10. Consider Seasonal Factors

Moving during the winter season requires a lot of care for a smooth and successful relocation. Winters can create unique challenges that require extra protection for hassle-free movement. Here’s what to keep in mind:-

Protect Temperature-Sensitive Items

1. Wrap and Insulate:- Use extra insulation materials like blankets or padded materials to protect sensitive items such as electronics, artwork, and certain types of furniture.
2. Keep Heating in Mind:- If possible, keep your new home’s heating system on at a moderate temperature. It would prevent your belongings from getting extremely cold.
3. Avoid Direct Exposure:- Coordinate with your moving team to make sure that your belongings aren’t exposed to cold weather for a long time.

Prepare for Weather-Related Delays

1. Monitor Weather Forecast:- Before the moving day, keep an eye on the weather forecast. Stay alert for potential snowstorms, ice, or other adverse conditions.
2. Plan For Road Conditions:- Winters can be very dangerous for driving. So allow for extra time for travel and inform your moving company of any possible delays or route changes.
3. Have a Back-Up Plan:- Always keep room for possible delays by having a backup plan. Which includes temporary storage options or flexible moving dates etc.

Additional Tips for Winter Moving

1. Clear Pathways:- Ensure that driveways, sidewalks, and entryways are clear of snow and ice to prevent slips and falls.
2. Protect Floors:- Use protective coverings on the floors of both your old and new homes to prevent damage from snow or mud.
3. Dress Warmly:- Make sure to wear layered clothing, gloves, and hats to stay warm while working in outer conditions.

So, whether you are downsizing, moving to a new place, or relocating your entire house following these expert tips can help you to pack like a pro and ensure a smoother and less stressful moving experience.

Also remember to get assistance with your move in the Phoenix, AZ area, Gilbert Moving & Storage is here to help. With our experience in “Local and out-of-state moving” as well as our “Climate control storage” options, we can give you a memorable moving experience for all the right reasons.

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