Of all the tasks that need to be checked off the list when moving, packing is likely the most dreaded one. It can take from various weeks to a few months to complete – and every item you own will pass through your hands. But seeing as the average person in Canada movers from 5 to 7 times in their lifetime, many people do this every day. These people know a few things about packing, but not as close as professional movers. In our Toronto moving company, we have professionals like this who pack items for a living, and they are more than willing to share part of their experience with you and help you learn how to pack efficiently.
Start by getting your hands on the right packing supplies
Before you start packing, you’ll need the right supplies, which include:
- Boxes of various sizes
- Packing tape for sealing boxes securely
- Bubble wrap and packing paper for cushioning
- Labels and markers for easy identification
- Furniture covers to protect against scratches and dust
You might think you can estimate the number of boxes and rolls of tape you’ll need, but it’s always better to have extras. Local stores often run out of supplies quickly during busy moving seasons. For reliable options, check online retailers or specialized stores offering packing supplies Toronto. Toronto has always been a popular moving destination, even for local moves, so make sure that you get your packing supplies before it gets sold out.
Should you declutter before moving?
Before you even seal a single box, consider decluttering. Reducing the number of items you need to pack has several advantages:
- Less to move: Every item you decide not to take means one less thing to pack, carry, and unpack. Less stuff can also translate into cheaper moving costs since many packing services Toronto offers charge based on weight or the number of boxes.
- Simplified unpacking: With fewer items, setting up your new place can be much quicker and easier.
- Reduced stress: Clutter can increase anxiety and make the packing process feel overwhelming. Clearing out unneeded items can provide a sense of control and accomplishment.
Start by sorting items and deciding what should you keep, give away, sell, or even throw out. For example, if you haven’t used something in over a year, it might be time to say goodbye. Consider donating clothing and household items in good condition to local charities like Ronald McDonald House Charities in Toronto. Selling items can be a great way to earn extra cash before your move. Remember, the goal is to lighten your load and make packing more manageable.
By taking the time to declutter, you not only make your move easier but also set the stage for a fresher, more organized start in your new home. Plus, the psychological lift from reducing clutter can make a big difference in how you approach the moving process. So, as you learn how to pack efficiently, don’t overlook the power of purging the unnecessary.
Learn how to pack efficiently with the room-by-room packing strategy
A strategic approach to packing can significantly reduce the stress of moving. Start with the areas of your home that you use less frequently and save the most used spaces for last. This method minimizes disruption to your daily life. Start with the:
- Guest room or basement: Since these areas are less frequently used, they are great starting points.
- Home office: Important documents should be kept in a separate, clearly labeled box. If you run an office, you will have more documents and electronics to deal with, while maintaining the workflow of the establishment. Packing is best left to office movers Toronto in this case. Downtime will really set you behind in a competitive market like this.
- Attic or seasonal storage: Sort holiday decorations and other seldom-used items well ahead of moving day.
Living Room: Pack this area with care; it’s full of varied items:
- Electronics: Use original boxes for TVs and stereos if you have them.
- Books: Pack horizontally in small boxes to avoid overloading.
- Decor: Wrap items in bubble wrap and mark the boxes as fragile.
Kitchen: This room requires careful handling due to its fragile items.
- Dishes and Glassware: Wrap each piece individually and use divided boxes.
- Appliances: Clean and dry everything before packing, and secure any loose parts.
- Pantry: Dispose of perishables and pack only sealed non-perishables.
Bedrooms: Clothes and personal items dominate here.
- Use wardrobe boxes for hanging items to prevent wrinkling.
- Roll other clothes to save space and avoid creases.
- Pack jewelry and small items in egg cartons or small boxes.
Bathrooms: These require careful attention to prevent spills.
- Seal caps with tape and pack toiletries together in waterproof bags.
- Keep medications and first aid accessible but secure.
Garage and Storage Areas: Often the last to pack but can be started earlier.
- Tools should be cleaned and wrapped.
- Lawn and garden equipment must be emptied of fuel.
Master some packing techniques for different items
When packing, it’s crucial to focus on techniques that both protect your belongings and make the most of your box space. How you pack can be as important as what you pack. For fragile items, use plenty of padding and clearly label the boxes to ensure they are handled with care. Books should be packed in smaller boxes to avoid overfilling and distribute weight evenly. When it comes to electronics, it’s best to pack them in their original boxes with sufficient cushioning. If you need to store electronics, remember they should only be kept in climate controlled storage Toronto facilities. Electronics are highly sensitive to humidity and temperature changes, and their value makes this precaution necessary.
Label and organize boxes to ease unpacking
Effective labeling is essential for keeping track of your belongings and making unpacking easier. Start by developing a consistent labeling system that includes detailed contents, the room it belongs to, and any necessary handling instructions. To make the process smoother, create a master inventory list to check off items as they’re packed and unpacked.
Also, use different color labels for each room to quickly identify boxes, and number each box while noting its contents in a moving binder or digital app. By using plastic moving bins Toronto, which are often stackable and reusable, you can further streamline the packing and unpacking process. These bins can be labeled easily and provide sturdy protection for your items, especially useful for electronics or books.
Maximize space and maintain organization during your move
Learning how to pack efficiently is key to managing space in your boxes and the moving truck, a task that can be challenging but is essential for a smooth move. Efficient use of space not only saves you from renting additional trucks or making more trips but also helps prevent damage during transport. To achieve this, consider filling gaps in boxes with towels, linens, or clothing to prevent items from shifting and getting damaged. When stacking boxes, place heavier ones on the bottom and lighter ones on top to avoid crushing, and make sure each box is filled to the top to maintain stability. Additionally, suitcases are ideal for packing heavy items like books, as they are easier to move and offer excellent protection.
Don’t forget to pack the essentials box
An essentials box is vital for keeping necessary items within easy reach during the first few days after your move. You should pack this box last and unload it first. Ideally, the long distance movers Toronto you hired shouldn’t transport this box, you should. There might be delays when moving long distances to cities with bad traffic conditions like Halifax, and you won’t get to the new home at the same time. If that happens, you won’t have any of the necessities on hand! Here’s what to include:
- Toiletries like toothpaste, soap, and shampoo.
- A change of clothes for each family member.
- Basic kitchen supplies such as a few dishes, utensils, and a coffee maker.
- Important documents include passports, leases, and birth certificates.
- Chargers for all essential electronics.
This box ensures you won’t be rummaging through dozens of boxes on your first night just to find your toothbrush or the bed sheets.
Safety tips for packing effectively without injuries
Safety is essential when packing and moving, as improper techniques can lead to injuries or damage to your belongings. To pack safely, always lift correctly by bending at the knees and keeping your back straight, avoiding any twisting motions while carrying heavy items. It’s important to be aware of proper lifting techniques, especially if you’ll be moving heavy furniture.
Also, avoid overloading boxes; if a box feels too heavy, it likely is, so keep the weight manageable, with a general rule of not exceeding 50 pounds per box. Then, ensure that all pathways, hallways, and exits are clear of obstacles to prevent tripping while moving boxes. Remember, It can be easy to overlook your physical needs during the rush of packing and moving! So, taking regular breaks and staying hydrated are important, especially on moving day.
Special considerations when packing for long-distance moves
Long-distance moves present unique challenges, making efficient packing even more important. To ensure your belongings arrive safely, consider adding extra padding for fragile items. These items require more protection due to the increased handling and shifting that occurs during long journeys. If anything, reputable residential movers Toronto often use double or triple padding for fragile and valuable items. Additionally, using durable packing materials, such as heavy-duty boxes and high-quality tape, helps ensure your belongings can withstand the trip. When packing, avoid leaving empty spaces in boxes where items could move around and get damaged, as tight packing reduces the risk of breakage during transport.
Give thought to more sustainable packing practices
A timeline for packing your Canadian home
The time it takes to pack up a home will depend on your packing efficiency, but also on the size of your home. The average Canadian home is 204 square meters, which should be manageable in four weeks, considering you have done it before. This timeline should give you an idea of what to focus on when:
- Four weeks before the move: Begin with decluttering each room and deciding which items to keep. Then, gather all necessary packing supplies such as boxes, tape, and bubble wrap from local suppliers or online stores.
- Three weeks prior: Start with less frequently used areas like the guest room or basement. Pack items carefully, labeling each box with its contents and intended room.
- Two weeks before: Tackle the bedrooms and living areas. Pack clothes into wardrobe boxes to prevent creases and wrap fragile decor items in bubble wrap, and remember to label everything.
- One week to go: Focus on the kitchen and pack dishes and glassware in padded boxes. Leave out only essential items for the final week.
- Final days: Pack an essentials box with toiletries, a change of clothes, and crucial documents. As moving day approaches, confirm details with your movers to ensure a smooth transition to your new home.
You will learn how to pack efficiently with experience and time
Efficient packing is more than just the time in which you pack up your home. It is more about what the process looks like, whether you enjoy it, and whether your items arrive safely at their destination. Efficient packing will help you pack in half the time, and preserve each and every one of your items, including the fragile ones. As you learn how to pack efficiently, remember that every bit of effort you put into planning and preparing pays off in a less stressful move. Use these tips to pack smartly, and you’ll thank yourself later when unpacking is a breeze.
