Moving Supplies: Tips For A Worry-free Move

By Monica Alberts

Acquisition of the right moving supplies is one of the most important parts of a move that goes efficiently and does not result in lost or damaged items. Planning ahead for the supplies means that you have tried to anticipate needs at both ends of the move and prepared the right tools and equipment to deal with the expected problems that are sure to arise.

Size of the Packing Box Matters

One of the first activities that people associate with a move is obtaining lots of packing boxes. While a do-it-yourself process can be less costly, it also requires somewhat more planning and preparation in order for the move to go smoothly. Boxes for packing small and not so small items should be ones that are clean and dry. A variety of sizes will help you to avoid breakage due to shifting within the container. All boxes should have lids or tops that can be securely sealed. If you purchase boxes, you can select uniform sizes, but will have to provide more packing material inside the container.

Packing to Avoid Shifting

Preparing furniture pads or blankets to protect against rubbing and wear of large furniture items during a move is another recommended moving activity. Many people do not realize that extensive damage can occur by two pieces of furniture rubbing against each other. It does not have to be a bumpy road or jolting ride; just the normal swaying motion that occurs during driving your household possessions from one location to another.

Keeping Possessions Free of Dust

The importance of preventing dust and dirt on valuable possessions cannot be overstated. Dust has erosive qualities that can damage delicate finishes. Dust covers or sealed cartons help to prevent dust and dirt. If you must store items, dust covers will reduce the amount of cleaning and dusting that will be necessary at your destination.

Deciding What to Move

Before determining the amount of supplies that are needed to accomplish the move, you should make a conscious effort to sort household items and to discard those that have not been used recently or are not likely to be used in the new location. Pack only those items that you will use. Other items can be donated or discarded.

Accomplishing the Heavy Lifting

Professional movers know how to use the proper equipment to make the moving job easier. If you are relying on friends or relatives to help you with a move, you should make certain that you have the proper equipment available to do the job with the least amount of physical effort. For instance, use a hand truck to move heavy boxes and a properly outfitted appliance dolly to move a washing machine, refrigerator or heavy television set. Ramps and tie-downs for the move are another type of equipment that should be available.

Planning and Labeling

In order to make your unpacking process more efficient, you should make certain that all boxes and cartons are labeled so that they are easily read. The boxes should be sealed and the label should list the contents of the box, where it is to be placed at the destination and whether it is a high priority item.

Moving supplies are an important part of preparing for and completing an efficient move. Include marking pens, cartons, hand tools, padding and packing materials and other items in the planning. By preparing for your move and stockpiling these supplies, you may find that your move is much less stressful. - 30331

About the Author:

Sign Up for our Free Newsletter

Enter email address here