Packing is one of the most important yet one of the most difficult things to get right when you're moving. Although most people pack their belongings themselves some hire a moving company to pack for them.
Perhaps that's because not only will they not have to deal with what may seem to be an overwhelming venture, but this also makes sure that their insurance policy will be honored should something go awry.
Let's assume, though, that you going to pack for your move. The hardest part of packing for a move is when you begin to pack. It could seem overwhelming, but it doesn't' have to be. To make it as easy and efficient as possible start in one room and pack everything there before moving on to the next room.
The first things you'll need are a packing book and packing materials. A packing book makes it much easier to unpack after your possessions are delivered because you will label every box you pack with a letter and a number and write a brief description of the contents in the book next to the same letter and number.
This way the movers will be able to put the boxes in the apropos rooms and you will know where to go for what when you unpack. If you want to make it even easier get colored stickers and also color code the boxes.
So, for example, red might mean the box should go into the kitchen and blue could mean it should go in the master bedroom. Upon arrival at your new home, put the apropos colored sticker on the door that the boxes belong to.
As far as packing itself goes, make sure to pack all your suitcases, drawers, wardrobes, travel bags, etc., with things. It adds ballast and will maximize the use of space.
You're also going to need boxes. As a guideline you'll want to buy strong boxes in various sizes. Some boxes are designed specifically designed to hold books. You'll be able to pack enough books in each box so that one person can carry it.
All of your boxes should be fully packed because they will be stacked one upon another and will need to be structurally strong enough to support the weight above them. This precludes recycling old boxes because cardboard deteriorates. And if you're thinking about filling up trash bags - well, trash that thought. They rip easily and can cause you more grief than the money you could save.
Generally you'll want to put the heavier things on the bottom of your boxes. Wrap most of your items, especially your fragile items, in either packing paper or bubble wrap.
Although some people recycle their newspapers it could end up being more of a pain than it's worth because the ink can come off and you may have to spend an awful lot of time cleaning it off after you've arrived in your new home.
When packing fragile items make sure to line the bottom of the boxes with bubble wrap, wadded up packing paper, etc. And don't forget to write FRAGILE in big, bold letters on the top and sides of boxes that have fragile items in them.
Remember to wrap the legs of all of your furniture to prevent it from being damaged. And, as far as larger appliances are concerned, refer to your owner's manuals and follow their instructions. For example, you'll have to defrost your refrigerator and drain your dishwasher well before the move so water doesn't leak over everything.
Follow these guidelines and your move will be much more successful.