Essential Packing Tips for a Smooth Local Grand Rapids Move

Declutter and Organize:

Sort and Purge:

Before you start packing, take the opportunity to tidy up your possessions. Organize items into categories like keep, donate, sell, or get rid of. Reducing unnecessary items will lessen the packing workload and help begin a fresh start in your new home.

Create a Packing Plan:

Formulate a packing plan to keep things organized throughout the process. First, start with non-essential items and slowly pack the necessary things closer to the moving day. Focus on packing room by room, labeling each box with its contents and the specific room it is intended for.

Gather Packing Supplies:

Sturdy Boxes and Containers:

Collect an ample supply of durable moving boxes in assorted sizes. Opt for high-strength boxes that can bear the weight of your things and resist crushing during transport. Many of Corrigan’s offices offer no-cost secondhand boxes to our customers, which can be a fantastic option to reduce waste and decrease your cost of purchasing materials. Keep in mind that secondhand inventory can change from day to day, so plan ahead and leave yourself plenty of time to pack.

Protective Packing Materials:

Buy packing materials like packing paper, packing peanuts, foam sheets, or bubble wrap to provide cushioning and protection for your belongings. Use these materials to encase fragile items, occupy vacant gaps within boxes, and stop shifting during transit. Start stockpiling the packing material from shipments you receive, that material can be reused for your move!

Essential Packing Tools:

Equip yourself with essential packing tools, including packing tape, scissors, markers, labels, and small storage bags. These tools will assist you in securely sealing boxes, labeling them for easy identification, and organizing little items (such as bookshelf pegs, or other little pieces and parts).

Packing Techniques:

Room-by-Room Packing:

Focus on packing each room individually to maintain organization and reduce unpacking confusion. Begin by tackling infrequently used spaces and belongings, then step by step move to more important rooms.

Categorize and Label:

Sort items within each room into simple categories. Clearly label each box with its what is inside, the corresponding area, and any special handling instructions. This will aid efficient unpacking and help local movers arrange boxes in their designated rooms.

Protect Fragile Items:

Wrap fragile items individually with cushioning bubble wrap or packing paper. Use dividers or individual containers for fragile items like fragile glasses, fine china, or tech gadgets. Fill empty spaces in boxes with packing peanuts or packing paper to avoid moving around and minimize the risk of damage.

Disassemble and Secure Furniture:

Disassemble furniture, when feasible, to make packing easier and effective use of space. Keep screws, bolts, and other small parts together by placing them in labeled bags or fastening them securely to the furniture. Take photos of items before dismantling them, so you can have an easy reference for reassembly!

Efficient Loading and Unloading:

Create a Pathway:

Ensure unobstructed pathways in your home on move day. Eliminate obstacles and tripping hazards to facilitate safe and efficient movement for local movers.

Heavy Items First:

Load big and heavy belongings onto the moving truck first. Place them as the base and against the truck's walls to create a solid foundation. Less heavy boxes and delicate belongings should be loaded at the top to stop them from getting crushed.

Essential Items in Easy Access:

Pack a special "essentials" box with belongings you will need right away when you get there, like toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, and essential kitchen items. Make sure this box within easy reach for an effortless shift into your new home.

Partnering with Local Movers:

Research and Choose Reputable Local Movers:

Spend time researching and selecting reputable local movers with a proven track record of reliability and top-notch customer service. Read reviews, request recommendations, and compare moving quotes to arrive at an well-informed decision.

Communication and Coordination:

Maintain regular communication with your chosen Grand Rapids local moving company. Give them accurate information about your inventory, packing requirements, and any special items that may require special care during the move.

Seek Professional Packing Assistance:

If you choose to focus on other parts of your move, request information about packing services offered by local movers. Experienced packers can efficiently and safely pack your belongings, saving you precious time and ensuring maximum protection during this important phase. At Corrigan Moving Systems, we can adjust our services to accommodate your needs. We can pack your entire house, or just certain fragile pieces. Your expert move representative can provide specifics on how to most effectively protect particular items, and craft a tailored quote for those services.