Moving to a new home can be an exciting and stressful time. There are so many details to consider, including packing up all your belongings and making sure they arrive safely at your new home. One of the most important decisions you’ll make when moving is choosing the right packing materials.
Here are some tips to help you choose the correct packing materials when moving home.
Consider the fragility of your items
The first thing to consider when choosing packing materials is the fragility of the items you’ll be packing. Fragile items like glassware, electronics, and artwork require extra care and protection. For these items, you’ll want to use materials like bubble wrap, packing peanuts, or foam inserts to cushion them during transport. Be sure to wrap each item individually and pack them tightly to prevent any movement during the move.
Use the right boxes
Choosing the right boxes is also important when packing for a move. You’ll want to use sturdy boxes that can hold the weight of your items without breaking. It’s also a good idea to use boxes of similar sizes, as this makes stacking and loading them onto the moving truck easier. At Matthew James we only use twin walled boxes which are sturdy and don’t collapse like single walled boxes. Also note open top fruit boxes are not really suitable and present a problem with customs as they are not sealed.
Label your boxes
Labelling your boxes is an essential part of the packing process. Not only does it make it easier to find items when unpacking, but it also helps movers know how to handle each box. Use a permanent marker to label each box with the contents and the room it belongs in. You can also use color-coded labels to make it even easier to sort and identify boxes.
Don’t forget about packing tape
Packing tape is essential for keeping your boxes secure during the move. Be sure to use high-quality packing tape to seal your boxes, as cheap tape can easily break or come undone during transport. You can also use packing tape to reinforce boxes that contain fragile items. Consider using packing tape that is specifically designed for moving.
Bubble wrap
Bubble wrap is ideal for protecting fragile items such as glassware, picture frames, and electronics. The air-filled bubbles provide a cushion for delicate items, preventing them from breaking or scratching during transportation. Consider purchasing bubble wrap in bulk to save money and avoid running out of it when you need it most.
Use blankets and towels for padding
In addition to bubble wrap and packing peanuts, you can also use blankets and towels to pad your items during transport. This is a great way to save money on packing materials while still providing adequate protection for your belongings. Just be sure to pack blankets and towels tightly around your items to prevent any movement during the move.
Packing paper
Packing paper is ideal for wrapping items that are prone to scratching, such as silverware and dishes. It’s also an excellent alternative to bubble wrap if you’re trying to save money. Consider purchasing large rolls or packs of packing paper to save money and make packing more comfortable.
Packing peanuts
Packing peanuts are an excellent way to fill up empty spaces in boxes, preventing items from moving around during transportation. They’re particularly useful for packing large items such as furniture and electronics. However, be careful when using packing peanuts as they can create a mess, and they’re not environmentally friendly. Instead, consider using biodegradable packing peanuts or other eco-friendly alternatives.
Plastic bags
Plastic bags are an excellent alternative to boxes for packing items such as clothing, bedding, and pillows. They’re also useful for keeping small items together, such as screws and bolts. Consider using sturdy plastic bags that won’t rip or tear during transportation.
Choosing the correct packing materials when moving home is essential to ensure that your belongings arrive safely at your new home. By using sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, packing peanuts, tape, labels, and plastic bags, you can pack your belongings efficiently and effectively.
Consider our Packing Services
Finally, if you’re not comfortable packing your items yourself, consider using our packing services. We have the experience and expertise to pack your belongings safely and efficiently. Matthew James also has access to high-quality packing materials that you may not be able to find.
