Packing Hacks: Tips and Tricks to Help Make Moving Day a Breeze

By Juan Mestre, Realtor Associate RSPS, AHWD, C2EX, & SFR®

Moving homes is an exciting new chapter in anyone's life, but the task of packing can often bedaunting. As a Realtor Associate, I've witnessed countless clients transition to their new homes.Moving to a new home is often a profound emotional journey, signifying the close of one chapterand the beginning of another. While the thought of new memories, fresh decor, and a change ofscenery brings anticipation and excitement, the process of relocating can be daunting, evenoverwhelming. Amidst the joy of acquiring a new home is the formidable task of packing upone’s life into boxes. Having been a Realtor Associate for years, I've not only facilitated propertytransactions but have also been a witness to the various challenges people face during themove.

Drawing from a rich tapestry of experiences, insights from professional movers, and valuablefeedback from countless clients, I bring you a comprehensive guide to make your moving daynot just manageable, but also efficient and stress-free.

While the property hunt and closing are my primary areas of expertise, I've gathered invaluableinsights from professional movers and my personal experiences on making the move smoother.Here are 15 pivotal points to help you navigate moving day with ease.

1. Start Early:

Benefit: Avoiding last-minute scrambles reduces stress.

Problem: Underestimating packing time.

Solution: As a realtor, I recommend beginning packing non-essential items a month in advance.Movers often suggest using this time to declutter too.

2. Inventory Everything:

Benefit: Ensures nothing gets lost.

Problem: Losing valuable items during the move.

Solution: Professional movers advise listing all items and numbering boxes. As a realtor, I seethis as an excellent time for homeowners to decide what stays and what goes.

3. Use Quality Packing Supplies:

Benefit: Protects your belongings.

Problem: Damaged items due to poor packing materials.

Solution: Invest in sturdy boxes and quality tape. I often remind clients that saving on packingmaterials can lead to costlier damages.

4. Color-Code and Label:

    Benefit: Faster unpacking.

    Problem: Wasting time identifying box contents.

    Solution: Movers recommend color-coding boxes for each room. As a realtor, I've seen thismethod reduce setup time in the new home.

5. Pack an Essentials Box:

    Benefit: Immediate access to necessities upon arrival.

    Problem: Scouring through boxes for essentials on the first night.

    Solution: Professional movers suggest having a box or suitcase with essentials like toiletries,chargers, and clothes. I often advise clients to consider this their "24-hour survival kit.

6. Protect Fragile Items:

Benefit: Safe transportation of valuables.

Problem: Breakages leading to financial and sentimental losses.

Solution: Movers advocate using bubble wrap and packing paper. I recommend clients considerinsurance for high-value items.

7. Maximize Space:

Benefit: Reduces the number of boxes.

Problem: Inefficient packing leading to more boxes and higher moving costs.

Solution: Use clothing to wrap fragile items or fill gaps in boxes. As a realtor, I see thisdual-purpose packing as both space-saving and eco-friendly.

8. Hire a Reliable Moving Company:

Benefit: Efficient and hassle-free move.

Problem: Unprofessional movers causing delays and damages.

Solution: I always advise clients to research and hire reputable movers. Professional moversoffer insurance options for added peace of mind.

9. Keep Important Documents Handy:

Benefit: Easy access to crucial paperwork.

Problem: Misplacing essential documents during the move.

Solution: Professional movers often suggest keeping a separate folder for vital papers. I remindclients to keep this folder in their personal vehicle for added security.

10. Photograph Electronics Setup:

Benefit: Easier reassembly of devices.

Problem: Wasting time setting up electronics.

Solution: Taking a quick photo before disconnecting wires can save hours during the setup, a tipI often share with tech-loving clients.

11. Avoid Over Packing Boxes:

Benefit: Easier lifting and reduced box breakage.

Problem: Injury or damage from too-heavy boxes.

Solution: Movers recommend distributing weight and using smaller boxes for heavy items. Thisensures safety and convenience.

12. Update Address in Advance:

Benefit: Smooth transition of mail and services.

Problem: Missing important mails or bills.

Solution: As a realtor, I stress updating the address a week in advance, ensuring all essentialmail reaches the new home promptly.

13. Dispose of Hazardous Materials:

Benefit: A safer moving environment.

Problem: Accidental spillage or damage due to hazardous items.

Solution: Movers advise against transporting hazardous materials. It's best to safely dispose ofthem before the move.

14. Consider Temporary Storage:

Benefit: Eases the moving process.

Problem: Limited space or time to unpack everything immediately.

Solution: Renting a temporary storage unit, a solution I've seen bring relief to many clients duringa phased move.

15. Ask for Help or Delegate:

Benefit: Faster and more efficient packing.

Problem: Overwhelm from tackling everything solo.

Solution: Enlist friends or hire professionals. As the saying goes, many hands make light work.

Common Questions Addressed:

How do I ensure my fragile items are safe? Invest in quality packing materials like bubble wrap,and consider insurance for high-value items.

Should I hire a moving company or DIY? While DIY can save costs, a reliable moving companyoffers efficiency, safety, and peace of mind, especially for long distances.

How do I manage the move with kids or pets? Plan ahead. Consider having a friend or familymember babysit on moving day to reduce stress and ensure safety.

What's the best way to pack clothes? Use wardrobe boxes or consider vacuum-sealed bags forefficient and wrinkle-free packing.

Should I declutter before the move? Absolutely. It reduces transportation costs and ensures onlynecessary items make it to the new home.

Final thoughts on the process of moving, moving homes is more than just a property transition;it's a significant life event. With the right strategies, guidance from professionals like movers andrealtors, and a dash of patience, it can indeed be a breeze.

In the grand tapestry of life, moving homes stands out as one of the more significant milestones,interwoven with a mix of nostalgia for the old and excitement for the new. While the logisticalaspects of moving can be taxing, the right strategies can transform this seemingly Herculeantask into a series of manageable steps.

Remember, every box packed is a step closer to your new adventure. With informed guidance,careful planning, and the combined wisdom of both movers and realtors like myself, you're notjust ensuring a smoother transition; you're setting the stage for a harmonious beginning in yournew abode.

Juan Mestre, Realtor Associate RSPS, AHWD, C2EX, & SFR®

RAISING THE BAR FOR REAL ESTATE SERVICES

CONSIDER: Before making any decisions, you should consult with an attorney, a financial advisor,your CPA, and any other qualified professional for your situation, as I am not a lawyer but yourneighbor's Realtor Associate. Let’s start working together towards your Real estate dreams. Reach me at305-776-5677 or register at www.juanmestre.com or email mestre.j@ewm.com.Sourced and digested from several locations including but not limited to:RisMedia for BHHS.com/blog, EWM Realty, Data from NAR & my knowledge