I for one, and no doubt you as well, find the thought of packing up the entirety of the home a daunting task. In fact, I know people who say that the thought of it is enough to put them off moving home at all! And when you look around and think just how much stuff you have accumulated over the years, it’s hardly surprising.
The golden rule of packing is to start early and allow yourself plenty of time. Don't leave everything until the last minute, because you'll end up throwing all sorts of stuff together that will take weeks to sort out at the other end.
Next, look upon your impending move as the perfect opportunity to do some major de-cluttering. Is there really any point keeping all those clothes/DVDs/books/decorative knick-knacks/kitchen gadgets/garden tools/unwanted birthday presents? And when was the last time you actually used any of the stuff in your loft? Obviously, quite a lot of things can go to your local charity shop. As for the rest, try being ruthless and hire a skip!
Before you start the actual packing, make sure you have adequate supplies of boxes, crates, proper parcel tape, bubble wrap, old newspapers and towels, etc. to protect delicate items. It's also worth checking whether your contents insurance covers you for damage in transit.
Finally, here are a few simple packing rules:
* Always start at the top and work down, one room at a time.
* Don’t over-fill boxes.
* As far as possible, try to pack similar items together.
* Clearly label all boxes with an indication of their contents and where they go in the new property.
* Keep all potentially hazardous materials, such as paint or garden chemicals, separately.
* Pack an "essentials" box, containing things like basic cutlery and crockery, a kettle, tea/coffee, a torch, scissors, cleaning materials, first aid kit - and toilet paper!
* Ensure everyone has their own "personal luggage" containing their washbag and a change of clothes.
* Finally, ensure that you keep things like house keys, all the documentation relating to the move, important phone numbers, spare cash and credit cards, etc. safely together.
Having a reliable local removal company to help you in transit can also make the whole process much simpler and stress free. Belgarum can recommend a selection of quality removal companies to assist you in your move. Please let us know if you would like some recommendations on either 01962 844460 or via our website.
