Preparing for the Move

Preparing for a move can be an overwhelming task, but with careful planning and organization, it can be a manageable process. Before you start packing, take the time to create an inventory list of the items you plan to move.

This will help you determine the number and size of boxes you need, as well as any additional packing supplies like bubble wrap or packing paper. As the day approaches, you’ll want to have essential items easily accessible like:

• Dishes
• Paper towels
• Toilet paper rolls
• Toiletries

It’s a good idea to set aside any perishable food and unnecessary items that you can donate or sell before the move.

 

 

Tips for Your Apartment Move

Make an Inventory

Creating an inventory list helps keep track of all your belongings and ensures everything arrives at your new apartment.

To create an inventory checklist, you should go room by room and make a list of all items. This includes pieces of furniture, décor, and even small items like kitchen utensils or toiletries. Assign each item or box a unique number to easily identify them later. [1]

When labeling boxes, it’s important to use coordinating colors. This makes it easy to quickly identify which room each box belongs in. You can use color-coded stickers or markers to label the boxes.

Developing an inventory list and using color-coded labels for boxes may be perceived as a lengthy process, but it has the potential to alleviate future stress and time constraints.

Keep the inventory list handy on moving day to ensure all items are accounted for and nothing is left behind. With a little extra effort and organization, your move can be smoother and more successful.

 

 

Plan Ahead

Start by creating a timeline and budget for your move. Map out each step of the process from packing, loading, unloading, and unpacking. This will help you stay organized and on track during the process.

Research moving companies and compare rates. When hiring a moving company, make sure they are insured and offer the services you need.

Check to see if your building requires any special permits for large items or truck parking. Booking a storage unit in advance may be a good idea so that you have a place to store all your belongings until you are ready to move them into your new apartment.

 

 

Start gathering boxes, packing supplies, and any other materials you may need well in advance. This will prevent any last-minute stress or running around looking for supplies.

When packing, start with items you won’t need right away. This will help free up space in your old apartment and make the process easier as it gets closer to moving day.

 

Declutter

Decluttering is an important step when packing for a move. It’s easy to accumulate clutter over the years, so it’s important to go through all your belongings and get rid of anything you don’t need or use anymore.

This will make packing easier and save you money on moving costs. Start by going through each room in your apartment and sorting items into piles. Make a “keep” pile for items you plan to take with you, a “sell” pile for items you can sell, and a “donate” pile for items that can be donated.

This will help minimize the amount of stuff you have to move and make your new apartment feel more spacious.

 

 

Label Your Boxes

Labeling your boxes is an important step when packing for a move. This will help you and your movers easily identify which rooms each box belongs in.

When labeling boxes, include the room name or destination on the outside of the box. This will make it easier for you and your movers to quickly identify which items belong where. You can also use color-coded stickers or markers to help make the process more efficient.

 

 

Pack Well

To ensure that your items arrive safely at your new apartment, use sturdy boxes and packing supplies.

Wrap fragile items individually with packing paper and bubble wrap.  Dish towels can also be used to provide extra cushioning.

Use wardrobe boxes to keep your clothing on hangers and save time unpacking.

Also, be sure to fill any empty space in the boxes with packing materials so that the contents don’t move around during the move.

 

 

Use High-Quality Packing Materials

Using high-quality packing materials is essential when moving. Investing in the right packing materials can make a big difference in the success of your move.

Start by purchasing sturdy boxes that are designed for moving, as these will be better able to handle the weight of your belongings and keep them safe.

 

Pack Room by Room

Packing room by room will help you stay organized and make the unpacking process easier once you reach your new home. Start by packing-up items from one room at a time before moving on to the next.

If possible, keep boxes from each room together so they don’t end up mixed in with boxes from other areas of your home.

 

 

Pack Electronics Carefully

When packing electronics, it’s important to take extra care. Electronics are fragile and can be easily damaged during the moving process. To ensure that your items remain safe and intact, follow these tips:

Start by unplugging all the electronics in your home and disconnecting the cables. If possible, keep each cord with its corresponding item so you know where to find it once you reach your new home.

Pack all electronics, such as TVs and computers, in their original boxes if possible. This will help protect them during the move. If you don’t have access to the original boxes, use bubble wrap or packing paper to keep your items safe.

 

 

Update Your Address

When packing for an apartment move, it’s important to remember to change your address with the post office and any other relevant services. This will ensure that all of your mail and important documents are sent to your new address without any delay. [2]

To avoid missing out on important correspondence, be sure to update your address at least two weeks prior to moving. You can do this online or visit your local post office.

 

 

Use the Right Box Size

Too large of a box can make it difficult to carry and could cause items to shift and become damaged. Too small of a box can cause items to be squashed and broken.

When selecting moving boxes, be sure to choose ones that are the right size for your items. Use smaller boxes for heavier items such as books and larger boxes for lighter items such as pillows and linens. [3]

Overfilling a box can cause the contents to shift during the move and become damaged. It can also make the box too heavy to lift, which could lead to injury or damage.

To prevent this from happening, try not to fill each box more than three-quarters full. This will ensure that your items remain safe and secure during the move.

 

Keep Important Items With You

When packing for an apartment move, it’s important to keep important items with you at all times. These items may include essential documents. By keeping these items with you, you can be sure they won’t get lost or damaged during the move, such as your:

• Birth certificate
• Driver’s license
• Items that have sentimental value
• Valuable jewelry

 

 

Pack Foods Separately

Packing food items separately from the rest of your belongings will help ensure that your food remains safe and uncontaminated during the move. It is also a good idea to pack perishables such as fruits and vegetables in coolers with ice packs or portable food containers so they don’t spoil during the journey.

Keep items such as condiments, spices and canned goods in their original containers to prevent them from spilling in the boxes.

 

 

Hire Professional Movers

Hiring professional movers for your apartment move can make the process much easier and help ensure that your items remain safe throughout the entire process.

Professional movers such as Pro Move Storage have the experience and expertise needed to ensure that your belongings are properly packed, loaded, and transported safely.

They also know how to handle any special items like antiques or delicate electronics, so you don’t have to worry about them getting damaged.

By hiring professionals, you can reduce the risk of damage to your belongings during transit. Attempting to move heavy or awkward items yourself can be dangerous and increase the likelihood of damage.

Professional movers use specialized equipment to ensure your property remains damage-free such as:

• Dollies
• Furniture pads
• Plastic wrap

If you need temporary storage solutions, many movers offer secure warehouse facilities to keep your belongings safe.

Hiring professional moving and packing services can ultimately save you time and money during the moving process.

By taking advantage of their expertise, you can rest assured that your belongings will arrive safely at your new apartment, giving you more time to focus on settling into your new home.

 

References

[1] Home Inventory Checklist for Moving | Allstate. (n.d.). Allstate. https://www.allstate.com/resources/home-insurance/moving-guide-home-inventory-checklist

[2] Official USPS® Change-of-Address Form. (n.d.). https://moversguide.usps.com/mgo/disclaimer

[3] Zeigler, B. (2022, July 11). 15 Places to Score Moving Boxes for Free. Apartment Therapy. https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/8-spots-to-get-moving-boxes-fr-1-103420