Packing Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
To some packing may seem fairly simple. Others might think that they are the absolute masters and know how to avoid packing mistakes with ease. While some of you are familiar with the truth and acknowledge that there is a proper way to do things. You are the kind of person who is aware that mistakes are common and want to educate yourself on the matter. We salute this introspective approach and want to help you in your quest.
One of the common packing mistakes to remember
People often think that remembering everything is feasible. They can also rely on the method of rolling with the punches, so to speak. A method where you deal with the issues as they arise. All of this is easily manageable with the simple construction of a plan. A good plan, worth noting. As soon as you decide that relocation is imminent, start with making a priority list for acting and packing. The former ought to have all the actions that need to be taken prior to the move. The latter is regarding the order by which you pack your belongings. Why is it important? Well, you wouldn’t want to catch yourself looking for that winter coat that you previously packed, while rushing to get to the store. A proper plan needs to have a priority list. Following it, you will know what items to pack last, and which go into the boxes first.
A realistic approach
Give yourself time. It would be rather preposterous to expect that you can pack your whole house in one day. Considering that you listened to our previous advise and made a plan, start by packing the seldom-used items. You can begin a month or a week earlier, depending on how much time you have. Prior to the moving day, pack all of your essentials and frequently used items. Leaving packing for relocation day is one of the worst packing mistakes. You are bound to forget something or pack your belongings improperly. Be realistic with the time you have at your disposal and plan accordingly. If you find yourself struggling, know that moving companies often offer their packing services and can be of great help.
What you can do today, do not leave for tomorrow
Thinking about sorting your items after the move? Think again. Sorting them prior to the packing will save you time and money. Having lesser things to pack means fewer packing material, as well as fewer hours spent boxing everything up. Consider tossing, donating or even selling what you find redundant. That way, you can even make some money. However, the main thing is that you will begin your new life with the things you actually need. Imagine the dread of having to sort everything after the move, while you just want to enjoy your new home. Why not start this chapter with a clean slate?
Real packing issues
Do not underestimate the number of your belongings, and the boxes you need to pack them. Same goes for other packing supplies. Stock up on both, so that you can pack properly. Note that it is better to have a surplus than a shortage. It would be rather inconvenient to find that you are low on supplies in the middle of packing.
1. Easy on the load
Although you might feel tempted, resist the urge to overfill your boxes. You risk damaging the goods if the package breaks. However, the biggest problem would be the heaviness. Do not subject your back to possible injuries by lifting heavy boxes. It is one of the most common packing mistakes and moving mishaps. In order to avoid this issue, opt for smaller boxes to hold heavier items and large ones for light things.
2. Memory instead of a written word
We strongly advise against relying on your memory for packed items. After all of the packing is done, you will find it almost impossible to differentiate one box from another. In order to go around this inconvenience, simply label the boxes according to the things they carry. Besides making the unpacking tremendously easier, you will be quicker at finding the things you might need prior to the moving day.
3. Forbidden fruit
Some tend to neglect the list of goods that moving companies refuse to transport. These usually include:
- hazardous items that are flammable or explosive
- household paint, certain cleaners, fertilizers, and other chemical substances
- perishable foods
- pets
- plants
Familiarize yourself with the company’s policy so that you avoid any possible inconveniences. It is smart to make special arrangements in advance for items that belong in the first and second group. That way you can ensure that they are safely transported. When it comes to food, it is a good idea to prepare what you can before the packing and moving. You will kill two birds with one stone by not throwing away any food, and having a homemade meal for each day. Moving an aquarium can be a challenge on its own. Certain moving companies know how to execute this task correctly, but if you are opting for a DIY solution, we strongly advise that you study proper ways of doing so. If you find this task too daunting or unfeasible, consider giving the aquarium to a friend. As far as plants go, you can either bring them with you on a ride, or gift them to your friends and family, and get some new ones for your new home.
Perfection or nothing
Some of you out there might have high hopes of executing the task of packing meticulously. It is good to have an optimistic outlook and healthy motivation. However, it is also worth noting that mistakes happen even to the best of us. Packing isn’t easy, and packing mistakes happen more often than not. Don’t beat yourself up about some mishaps. Follow these few simple directions and get to your new home safely. After all, it is a joyous occasion and a fresh start of a new chapter in your life.