What to Pack First and Last When Moving
Learn what to pack first and last for an efficient move. From out-of-season items to essential daily items, our expert tips ensure a smooth transition.
June 25, 2024
What to Pack First and Last When Moving
What to Pack First and Last When Moving
Moving can be a daunting task, but with the right strategy, you can make the process smoother and less stressful. At MTS Moving and Storage, we believe that a well-organized packing plan is the key to a successful move. This blog will walk you through what to pack first and last, ensuring that your move is efficient and hassle-free.
What to Pack First When Moving
Out-of-Season Items
Start by packing items that you won’t need in the immediate future. Out-of-season items such as winter coats, holiday decorations, and seasonal sports equipment can be packed away first. These items are usually stored away anyway, so boxing them up early won’t disrupt your daily routine.When it comes to packing for a move or decluttering your home, an efficient approach is to start by packing items that you won't need in the immediate future. Out-of-season items such as winter coats, holiday decorations, and seasonal sports equipment are excellent candidates for early packing.
Winter Coats: As the warmer months approach, winter coats become less necessary. Pack away your heavy coats, parkas, and other winter outerwear to free up closet space.
Holiday Decorations: After the festive season, holiday decorations like Christmas lights, ornaments, garland, and tree skirts can be carefully packed away. Use sturdy boxes and label them clearly to make it easy to identify and unpack when the next holiday season rolls around.
Seasonal Sports Equipment: If you participate in seasonal sports like skiing, snowboarding, or water sports, pack away the gear you won't be using anytime soon. This includes skis, snowboards, helmets, goggles, and other accessories.
By tackling these out-of-season items first, you can make significant progress in your packing or decluttering efforts without disrupting your daily routine. Since these items are typically stored away anyway, packing them up early won't interfere with your day-to-day activities.
Additionally, packing out-of-season items early can help you identify items you no longer need or use. If you come across clothing or sports equipment that hasn't been used in several seasons, consider donating them or selling them to make room for items you actively use.
By starting with out-of-season items, you can create momentum and motivation to continue packing and decluttering your home. The sense of accomplishment from making progress will encourage you to tackle other areas of your home and make the entire process more manageable and stress-free.
Rarely Used Items
Next, focus on items that you don’t use regularly. Books, collectibles, and extra linens fall into this category. By packing these items first, you can gradually start to clear out your home without impacting your day-to-day life.
Decluttering involves systematically organizing your space by identifying rarely used items. Create a sorting zone, categorize items into "Keep," "Donate," "Sell," and "Trash." Store keepers in designated places, donate or sell unwanted items, and dispose of trash properly. Regularly review your belongings, create a designated space for incoming items, and implement a "one-in, one-out" rule to maintain a clutter-free and functional living environment. Decluttering is an ongoing process that contributes to a well-organized and serene space.
Decorative Items
Packing decorative items early during a move is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, these items are often fragile and require special care to prevent damage. Secondly, packing them properly takes time and effort, so starting early allows for ample preparation. Thirdly, packing away decorative items can reduce clutter and make the packing process feel less overwhelming. Fourthly, it provides an opportunity to identify and organize these items, making unpacking and arranging them easier in the new home. Lastly, knowing that these cherished possessions are packed safely will give peace of mind during the moving process. Prioritizing the packing of decorative items contributes to a smoother and stress-free moving experience.
Non-Essential Kitchenware
When packing for a move, it's crucial to declutter your kitchenware strategically. Identify unused items like specialty cookware, extra dishes, seldom-used appliances, and gadgets, and pack them away in labeled boxes. Store the boxes in a safe, dry location if you're not moving immediately. Declutter your kitchen cabinets and drawers to make them more organized and functional. Update your kitchenware inventory after the move to track what you have and need. By following these steps, you can declutter your kitchen, streamline the moving process, and quickly settle into your new home.
What to Pack Last When Moving
Essential Daily Items
Packing essential daily items last when preparing for a trip ensures they are easily accessible during your journey. These items include travel-sized toiletries, comfortable clothing for your first day or two at the destination, daily medications, essential electronic devices, and non-perishable snacks and drinks. Packing these items last allows you to maintain your routine and provides easy access to the items you need the most, making your transition to a new environment smoother and more comfortable.
Vital Documents
When preparing for a move, it is crucial to prioritize the safety and accessibility of essential documents to ensure a smooth transition. Passports, birth certificates, and moving-related paperwork fall into this category and require careful handling. To safeguard these documents, it is recommended to store them in a secure location such as a waterproof and fireproof safe. This ensures that they are protected from potential damage caused by water leaks, fires, or other unforeseen events.
Additionally, it is advisable to keep these documents easily accessible during the moving process. Packing them last allows for quick retrieval should the need arise. Whether you are going through security checkpoints at the airport, presenting identification to utility companies, or dealing with moving-related matters, having these documents at hand streamlines the process and prevents unnecessary delays.
Furthermore, it is essential to create multiple copies of these documents and store them in separate locations. This provides an extra layer of security in case of loss or damage. Digital copies can be stored on a secure cloud-based platform, while physical copies can be kept with a trusted friend or family member. By taking these precautions, you can mitigate the risk of losing these vital documents and ensure peace of mind during the moving process.
Cleaning Supplies
To ensure a smooth moving experience, it's important to prioritize cleaning both your old and new homes. Essential cleaning supplies include an all-purpose cleaner, paper towels, and garbage bags. Additionally, microfiber cloths, scrubbing sponges, disinfecting wipes, a vacuum cleaner, and a mop with a bucket can be useful for specialized cleaning tasks. Having these supplies readily accessible will make the cleaning process more efficient and effective, allowing you to transition smoothly into your new home.
Basic Kitchen Items
In the days leading up to your move, maintaining a small set of kitchen items accessible for simple meals is essential. This approach ensures you have the necessary tools to prepare basic dishes without relying solely on takeout. By keeping a few dishes, utensils, and pots and pans within reach, you can effortlessly whip up quick and easy meals, saving both time and money.
To streamline the process, consider designating a specific cabinet or countertop area in your kitchen solely for these items. This way, they're easily accessible and won't get mixed up with the items you're packing for the move.
When selecting the dishes, choose versatile pieces that can serve multiple purposes. For example, a large pot can be used for both boiling pasta and simmering soups. A sauté pan can handle everything from scrambled eggs to stir-fries. And a few sturdy plates and bowls will suffice for serving meals.
As for utensils, a basic set of forks, knives, spoons, and spatulas should cover your needs. Remember to include a can opener, a bottle opener, and a few measuring cups and spoons.
By keeping your kitchen functional until the end, you'll avoid the unnecessary expense and hassle of ordering takeout every day. Plus, cooking simple meals during this transitional period can provide a sense of normalcy and comfort amid the chaos of moving.
Personal Electronics
When packing for a move, it's crucial to pack personal electronics last to ensure easy access. Laptops should be kept in their original packaging or a sturdy laptop bag, while phones should be packed in their original box or a sturdy phone case. Chargers should be rolled or coiled neatly and secured with rubber bands or twist ties. Other personal electronics should be packed similarly, using original packaging or sturdy cases. Keep the bag or box containing your electronics easily accessible during your move, as you may need to use them during the journey.
Tips for an Efficient Packing Process
Create a Packing Schedule: Plan your packing process by creating a schedule and sticking to it. This helps you stay organized and on track.
Label Boxes Clearly: Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to. This makes unpacking easier and ensures nothing gets misplaced.
First-Night Box: Pack a separate box with essentials for your first night in your new home. Include items like toiletries, a change of clothes, basic kitchen items, and important documents.
Use Quality Packing Materials: Protect your belongings by using sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, and packing tape. Quality materials prevent damage during the move.
Making Your Move Smooth and Stress-Free: Final Tips and Advice
By following these tips on what to pack first and last, you can make your move more organized and less stressful. Remember, planning ahead is crucial to a successful move. If you need any assistance, MTS Moving and Storage offers professional packing and moving services to ensure a seamless transition to your new home.
Our team of experts can handle everything from packing your belongings with care to transporting them safely to your new location. Contact us today to make your moving experience smooth and hassle-free.
Need help with your long-distance move? Contact MTS Moving and Storage for professional packing and moving services that ensure a seamless transition to your new home. Visit our website or call us today!