Moving into your new Arizona home is an exciting time, but most of us dread the idea of packing and unpacking all of our belongings. It can be a daunting task, and no one looks forward to the work involved with a big move. Valuable items get lost or broken, and our sense of organization all but disappears during a move. Whether your new home community is in Queen Creek, Surprise, Buckeye, Fountain Hills, or any of the beautiful Valley cities in between, these packing tips can make the transition on moving day go smoothly and almost stress-free.
1. Start early!
You might want to hold a yard sale to help clear out unwanted or unneeded items. Thrift stores and consignment shops will gladly accept your unwanted clothes. The fewer items you have to move, the easier your move will be. In addition, you may raise some money while getting rid of things! Prepare for packing by getting the necessary supplies:
• Strong, corrugated cardboard boxes
• Box labels or stickers
• Foam peanuts or “popcorn” and bubble wrap
• Tissue paper or newsprint for wrapping delicate items
• Packing tape to seal boxes
• Markers
• Scissors and/or Exacto knife
When packing boxes, keep their weight between 25-35 pounds. Pack heavier items in smaller boxes and lighter items in larger boxes. Pack items from the same room together. Seal the box with packing tape, and clearly label it, indicating the general category of contents and which room the box’s items come from. (Color coordinating box labels will make unloading easier, too!) First, pack possessions you rarely use, like items from the garage or storage areas. Once you clear out the garage, you will have space to store the boxes until moving day. You can also save time and space by ordering a “pod” or “pack rat,” a portable storage container. Pack a few cartons each day, so your workload doesn’t seem overwhelming.
2. Pack dishes and other fragile items
When packing fragile items, it is important to keep them safe and secure from breakage. Select a medium-sized box and line the bottom with crumpled packing paper. Carefully wrap each item individually, and place in the carton. When packing glasses and stemware, fill them with crumpled packing paper. Place items in an upright position. Separate layers of items with packing paper or bubble wrap, and be sure to fill in any empty space to prevent shifting of items. Mark the box “FRAGILE,” and always stack at the top.
3. Pack small appliances and electronics
When possible, you should pack small appliances and electronics in their original packaging. These items fit efficiently in their original boxes, and are often awkward to fit into other types of cartons. If you do not have the original packaging, choose an appropriate-sized box, and place protective padding on the bottom of the carton. Wrap an old blanket or protective pad around the item, and place it in its carton. Wrap cords separately, label to identify usage, and place in a plastic bag away from delicate surfaces. Non-detachable cords should also be wrapped. Place cords between the padded item and the box.
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