Packing like a professional takes patience, time and a system. As well as some inexpensive but fairly specific packing materials to make the process faster and easier. Here’s how to pack like a pro:
• You can’t beat a system. Be methodical and careful and you’ll always feel like you’re in control of the move.
• Diary entries for a smooth exit. Do a quick estimate of the time you think you’ll need to pack up the house. A rough rule of thumb is 1-2 days for each room and 2-3 days for the kitchen and garage. Set aside the time in your diary because you’ll always find more interesting things to do.
• Essential equipment. Buy yourself a brightly coloured tub and make it your ‘Packing Stuff’ kit.’ Why brightly coloured? You’ll understand when you have boxes and packing paper in every room. It should contain a tape gun and extra rolls of tape, thick black and red marking pens, sticky labels and bubble-wrap. You’ll also need boxes, tissue paper, newspaper and corrugated cardboard.
• The forgotten favourite things. Start by packing things you didn’t remember you owned. The items you haven’t looked at in years. Anything you don’t think you’ll need before you move. It’s not too late to cull more things now either!
• Tape the bottom of your boxes for extra support. They can become pretty heavy, especially when they’re full of books.
• Handle with care. Wrap small and fragile items in bubble-wrap and coloured tissue so you don’t miss them when you’re unpacking.
• Labelling rules. Label the boxes with the room and broad description, like ‘Living room-CDs and cushions’. If it’s breakable write “Fragile’ or ‘Top Load Only’ in red on the box. Avoid tempting labels like “Gold Jewellery”. In fact it’s worth considering moving some of your more valuable or fragile items in your own car.
• Pillow talk. Use towels, cushions, pillows and linen to pack around larger fragile items.
• Packing art. Wrap framed artwork in corrugated cardboard or blankets to protect the glass and corners.
• Packing technology. When you pack the TV and other electronic gear make sure you include a cushion or some other buffer to protect the jacks.
• The cover up. Protect delicate furniture and table tops with bubble-wrap or cardboard.
• Never pack more than you can lift. Pack heavy items in smaller boxes. Have you ever tried moving a big box of books?
