When you are moving cross country, packing can be the most time-consuming part of the entire process. However, if you know how professionals work, you can save both time and inconveniences associated with this part of your move. The following guide provides you with some valuable packing tips for a cross-country move for a more effortless experience.
1. Get All the Packing Supplies
It is recommended to start gathering the packing supplies 5 to 7 weeks before your move. This includes items such as:
- Bubble wrap
- Moving boxes
- A dolly
- Packing tape
- Tape dispensers
- Labels
- Permanent markers
If you have hired the services of a moving company that is also handling the packing, they can supply you with all the essential materials.
2. Declutter Your Home
Move around your home and conduct an assessment of the items that you may no longer need. Gather all the unwanted items and separate them into different groups to be sold, discarded, or donated. Once you have decluttered your home, you will have fewer items to move.
Follow these tips to declutter:
- Go through all the items on a room by room basis
- Remove items from your closet that don’t fit, have not been worn for years, or are out of style
- Consider selling unwanted items online
- Consider storing away items that are not required immediately after the move
3. Pack Non-Essential Items First
Once you have successfully decluttered, start with the packing process. A unique thing about cross-country moves is that it will take some time before you unpack. Start packing the unessential items 3 to 4 weeks before the move. Examples of such items include:
- Memorabilia, pictures, additional décor
- Unwanted seasonal clothing
- Various seasonal items
- Most of your books
- Camping equipment
- Less-used kitchen items
- Toys and board games
There are many other items you may not need for the next one month and you can pack them in advance. As you keep packing, make sure to label the boxes based on the room they will go to in your new home.
4. Start Packing Room by Room
A couple of weeks from the moving day, start packing your items on a room-by-room basis. Set aside only the most essential items. For example, when packing the kitchen, keep out the most basic cooking equipment. If you need certain items up to the day before the move, place them into open boxes so that you can easily access them.
Examples include:
- Towels
- Toilet paper
- Paper towels
- Cleaning products
- Disposable dinnerware
5. Pack Your Carry-On Bags
You should also pack a few carry-on bags containing items you will need when traveling. Some examples of items to be placed in these bags include:
- Important documents
- Toiletries
- Medicines
- Pet supplies
- Comfort items for children
It is recommended to fill up a few duffle bags with such necessities. This can make it easier and faster to pack your other belongings.
6. Complete the Packing Process
If you follow the above-mentioned tips, you should have everything packed or in the right places by the last week before your move. It is important not to take packing lightly. Most people who are moving underestimate the amount of time that it can consume. Once all the items have been placed inside the boxes, start sealing them up. Also, make sure that everything is properly labeled.
Since long-distance moves are complicated, it is best to hire the services of specialized professionals. It is also recommended to have the packing handled by the same experts. While it may cost more than handling it yourself, the quality and speed of packing can help you save both time and money.
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