Packing 101: How to Pack Like a Pro

Packing is often the most dreaded part of moving. It's time-consuming, tedious, and can feel overwhelming. But with the right strategy, you can pack your home with the efficiency and care of a professional. Here's how.

1. Gather the Right Supplies

Before you start, gather everything you'll need. This will save you from making last-minute runs to the store.

Boxes: Get more than you think you'll need, in a variety of sizes. Small boxes are for heavy items (like books), and large boxes are for light items (like linens).
Packing Tape: Don't skimp here. Buy quality packing tape to ensure your boxes stay sealed.
Packing Paper and Bubble Wrap: Use packing paper for general wrapping and bubble wrap for extra-fragile items.
Markers: Use permanent markers for labeling.
A Box Cutter and Scissors: You'll need these for opening and cutting materials.

2. The Golden Rules of Packing

Pack Room by Room: This will keep you organized and make unpacking much easier. Finish one room completely before moving on to the next.
Don't Overpack Boxes: A box should be full, but not bulging. As a rule of thumb, no box should weigh more than 50 pounds.
Fill Empty Spaces: Use packing paper, towels, or clothing to fill any gaps in your boxes. This prevents items from shifting and breaking.
Label Everything: This is the most important rule! On the top and sides of each box, write the room it belongs in and a general description of the contents.

3. How to Pack Specific Items

The Kitchen

Plates: Wrap each plate individually in packing paper and stack them vertically in the box, like records. They are less likely to break this way.
Glasses: Stuff each glass with packing paper and then wrap it in another sheet. Place them at the top of a box with plenty of cushioning.
Pots and Pans: Nest smaller pots inside larger ones, with a layer of packing paper in between to prevent scratches.

The Bedroom

Clothing: For hanging clothes, use wardrobe boxes. You can simply transfer them from your closet to the box, hangers and all. For folded clothes, you can use suitcases or regular boxes.
Jewelry: Keep valuable jewelry with you in a separate bag. For costume jewelry, you can use a pill organizer or press-and-seal plastic wrap to keep necklaces from tangling.

Fragile Items

Mirrors and Artwork: Use a picture box or wrap them in bubble wrap and place them between two pieces of cardboard. Always transport them vertically, not flat.
Lamps: Remove the bulb and lampshade. Pack the base and shade in separate boxes, with plenty of cushioning.

4. The "Open First" Box

This is a non-negotiable. Your "Open First" box should contain everything you'll need for your first 24 hours in your new home. This includes:

Basic toiletries (toothbrush, soap, toilet paper)
A change of clothes for everyone in the family
Medications
A basic tool kit (box cutter, screwdriver, hammer)
Phone chargers
A few snacks and bottles of water

5. What NOT to Pack

Some items should not be packed on the moving truck. Keep these with you:

Important Documents: Passports, birth certificates, social security cards, and moving documents.
Valuables: Jewelry, laptops, and other small, high-value items.
Hazardous Materials: Movers will not transport flammable or hazardous items like paint, aerosol cans, or cleaning supplies.

Conclusion

Packing is a marathon, not a sprint. Start early, stay organized, and don't be afraid to be ruthless in your decluttering. By following these tips, you can protect your belongings, save yourself a headache, and set yourself up for a smooth and successful unpacking experience in your new home. Happy packing!

What's your best packing hack? Share your secrets in the comments below!