Use the Right Moving Supplies to Minimize Your Stress

By Monica Alberts

For anyone who has ever moved, there are probably a few horror stories you can recant about your experience. It never fails... The best plans can go haywire for reasons way beyond your control. Moving is as stressful as losing a job or your spouse. The only way you can try to alleviate much of the stress is with plenty of proactive planning. Buying moving supplies, without waiting till the last minute, can be a big help!

Having a good understanding of exactly what type of supplies you need can be a lifesaver. Finding out you have no more boxes and no more tape just as your buddies pull up with the truck can really put a cramp in your plans! Get some professional advice - and this is as close as your nearest moving and storage facility. Buying supplies is an important part of your move; don't be running around to your local discount stores loading up on the wrong things, or items that won't last through the project. Have one of the pros as the storage facility go over all the details with you and buy what they suggest. This is not the time to skimp.

Although many of us have resorted to hounding local grocery and liquor stores for boxes, starting months before the planned moving date, this can be time consuming. Keep in mind that these boxes are used - they have been weakened, and chances are they are missing tops. Also, you most likely will be collecting just about every box you can get your hands on, in sizes that aren't going to be much help. Hint: Buy your boxes new. An added benefit is that they come flat. This saves you a bunch of room if you're going to have to find a place to put them as you start packing.

Next, you need plenty of sturdy packing tape. Forget duct tape and household tape. You need to tape the bottom of the boxes, too... You don't want to pick up a box only to have the contents fall out! Get a tape dispenser with a built in cutting edge. Forget trying to carry around a pair of scissors.

Now think about items that don't go into boxes. What about mattresses? Large pieces of artwork? These need covers and protection, too. Trucks are notorious for being dusty and dirty. You don't want to make it all the way your new home without a mishap only to find out your mattress and box spring are covered with grease.

Professional moving companies always have a large supply of moving pads on hand. If a professional mover isn't in the budget, get your own moving pads. These are a must! Place some on the floor to act as buffers for delicate items and fragile furniture. They come in different sizes and different materials to accommodate different needs. They can be rented or purchased.

You'll also want to get furniture covers. These come in material and plastic designs, again, of various sizes and thicknesses. You don't want to put your sofas and chairs into a truck without protection.

One final tip: get waterproof covers! You never know what a pesky rain storm will kick up. You don't want your sofa sitting in your driveway getting soaking wet! - 30331

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