Moving house can be a daunting and lengthy process. To ensure your transition is as smooth as possible, the secret lies in organization. Preparing your items properly before they hit the moving truck—or head into storage—will save you hours of frustration later.
Check out our top 10 expert tips to keep your belongings organized and your move on track.
Phase 1: Declutter and Prepare
1. The Pre-Move “Spring Clean”
Make life easier by having a thorough clear-out before you reach for the packing tape. Whether you sell unwanted items, donate them to charity, or give them to friends, you’ll reduce the volume of goods you need to transport and find space for in your new home.
2. Shred and Recycle
Paper adds unnecessary weight and bulk. Toss out old junk mail and outdated documents. Pro Tip: Always shred documents containing personal information to protect your identity during the move.
3. Take a “Tech Photo”
Before unplugging your TV or computer setup, take a quick photo of the back of the device. This visual guide will save you from a “cable nightmare” when you’re trying to set up your electronics in your new living room.
Phase 2: Genius Packing Hacks
4. Use a Color-Coding System
Assign a specific color to each room in your new house. Mark your boxes with colored tape or markers so movers know exactly where each container belongs. This minimizes the “Which room does this go in?” questions on moving day.
5. Secure Furniture Hardware
When taking furniture apart, don’t lose the “bits and bobs.” Place all screws, bolts, and nuts into a Ziploc bag and tape it securely to the underside of the furniture item. No more missing pieces!
6. Use Suitcases for Heavy Items
Don’t break your back lifting boxes filled with books. Pack heavy items into rolling suitcases; the wheels make transporting your “home library” a breeze.
7. Soft Goods as Extra Padding
Save money on bubble wrap by using clothes, linens, blankets, and even soft toys as padding for fragile items. It’s a double-win: you protect your breakables while packing your textiles at the same time.
Phase 3: Protecting Small & Fragile Items
8. Prevent Jewelry Tangles
Keep necklaces from knotting by threading them through cardboard toilet paper rolls. For earrings and small charms, an empty egg carton makes a perfect organized tray.
9. Highlight Tiny Essentials
Small items can easily get lost in large boxes. Wrap tiny valuables in brightly colored tissue paper so they stand out against standard packing materials, ensuring nothing gets accidentally thrown away.
10. Pack a “First Night” Essentials Box
The first 24 hours in a new home are exhausting. Pack a dedicated box with everything you need for night one: toiletries, toilet paper, a change of clothes, medication, bedding, and—most importantly—coffee for the next morning!
Need More Space?
Ready to get moving? Visit your local Rent A Space to find high-quality packing materials to keep your belongings safe. Whether you need a variety of storage unit sizes or 365-day access, Rent A Space has the perfect solution for your transition.