Fun fact #1: Packing mistakes are the most common of all the moving mistakes. Fun fact #2: They are also the easiest to avoid. Working under duress inevitably leads to mistakes. And we all know how stressful a move can be. Time is always short and the to-do list is constantly getting longer. Luckily, there is a way to remedy that. So, before you pick up the phone to book the best long-distance and local movers Fort Lauderdale has to offer, read up on these 10 most common packing mistakes.
Mistake #1: Rushing in without a plan
Having a good plan is half the job done. Packing is one of the most time-consuming activities during a move. Of course, making a plan will take some time. An hour or two, maybe more. Although, in the long run, it will help you save a lot more time than you would by just starting to pack right away. So, arm yourself with some pen and paper, and make a checklist. Take notes of the items that will need extra attention when packing. Be extra careful when packing breakables and fine art objects, as they are the most prone to damage.
Mistake #2: Procrastination
Same as rushing in, we can say that delaying is one of the most common packing mistakes. Maybe you worked all day, and you’re tired. Or maybe you’re just “not feeling like it” right now. Whatever the case is, there’s one simple fact: It has to be done. Procrastination will only make matters worse, as sooner, rather than later, you will find yourself only days away from the move. And that will lead to packing in a rush, which will, in turn, lead to you making more mistakes. Prevent this by starting on time, preferably, the moment you are certain of the move date. An hour or two a day, over a few weeks, will lead to you being packed up and ready to go, with virtually no stress.
Mistake #3: Doing it all by yourself
Now that you’ve made a plan, you should have a pretty good idea of how much time it will take you to pack your house. Most of the things you will be able to do yourself. But, it’s always good to have an additional set of helping hands. Get a few pizza’s and call your friends and family over to help. The job will be done faster and you can have some fun along the way! Needles to say, the best option is always to hire professional packers like those Fort Lauderdale moving services can offer. Experienced personnel will not only save you time but will also save you the headache of questioning yourself if you packed correctly.
Mistake #4: Packing without sorting first
Moving is an ideal opportunity to review your home inventory. Not only that, but it will also cut the costs of moving. It will let you pack lighter, therefore reducing the amount of packing supplies needed. As everything is already sorted, it only has to be boxed. And sorting will also help you avoid another one of the most common packing mistakes, Mistake #5.
Mistake #5: Packing things you don’t need
Packing things that you don’t need, or you “might” need is not just a waste of time. It’s another money sink. Especially if you’re moving long-distance, as the price of the move is calculated based on the weight of your goods. So, if you won’t be using it in your new home, throw or donate. If you have enough time, you can also organize a yard sale. Not only you’ll get rid of the unwanted items but you’ll also make some money. Certainly a win-win situation!
Mistake #6: Not getting enough supplies
You’re packing box after box, everything is going smoothly, your productivity is spiking, and your mood with it. The job is almost done! There are only a few more things to pack. You reach out for another box and – there’s nothing there. Now you have to run to the store again and your good mood is plummeting. For this not to happen, make sure you’ve bought enough supplies. It’s better to have a surplus than to have to waste precious time and energy.
Mistake #7: Using low-quality packing supplies
You might think that using old boxes or plastic bags is a good way to save some money. In reality, it’s quite the opposite. Poor packing supplies increase the risk of damage to your items. Old box might be weathered and simply lack the integrity to withstand stacking. Trash bags (another popular choice of DIY packers) can easily tear, leaving your possessions exposed and unprotected. In the end, damaged items will surely need replacing or at least repairing, and you’ll end up paying more than you saved. And finding quality packing supplies in Fort Lauderdale is easy.
Mistake #8: Packing the boxes in an unsafe manner
We can split this mistake into two sub-categories:
1. Overfilling/Underfilling
The general rule here is: Use small and medium boxes for heavy items (books fall into this category too!) and large ones for light items. Underfilling the boxes can lead to them caving in under the weight, thus risking the damage to the items inside. Overfilling them may cause the boxes to burst. It can also make boxes heavier and difficult to load into the truck. Not to mention that lifting too heavy boxes can lead to injury.
2. Poor securing
Use quality packing tape to reinforce the top, bottom, and corners of the box. Especially if you’re using old boxes
Mistake #9: Forgetting to pack an essentials bag
Once your possessions are packed and loaded in the truck, you won’t have access to them until they’ve arrived at their destination. With that in mind, you should prepare a separate bag or box, that will not go with the movers. Pack things like a change of clothes, documents, medicaments, toiletries, and chargers in it to help you survive until the rest of your stuff arrives.
Mistake #10: Improper labeling
Use a thick marker and, on top and at least two sides of each box, write:
- Your last name
- Destination room
- Contents
- Handling instructions
Good labeling makes life easier for both you and your movers. It will help them when loading and unloading your goods and save you a lot of time when unpacking.
Bonus Tip: Stay positive!
Packing is only tedious if you make it out to be. Download Tetris music, and you will be laughing and packing in no time!