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What Should I Pack First When Moving?
Packing is the most time-consuming part of the moving process. So, it comes as no surprise that you’ll want to get started as soon as possible. However, packing requires a lot of strategy, which means it’s important to know where to start. You don’t want to pack bathroom or kitchen essentials first, as you still need those items if you aren’t moving for another couple of weeks. While you think you’re saving time by getting a head start, you could lose critical time by unpacking belongings again to find something you need.
Get the right start on your packing by learning which room to start with and what items to pack first for your move.
What to Pack First When Moving
- Belongings in storage. Items stored in your garage, basement, attic or even a storage unit should be one of the first types of belongings you pack for your move. It makes sense to start here since these items are already packed in boxes. However, you may want to set aside a little time to go through those boxes and see if there’s anything you no longer need. It’s better to get rid of anything you no longer need, so you can consolidate your boxes and have fewer items to move on moving day.
- The rooms you use least often: Which rooms do you use as storage space or keep unoccupied? Starting here won’t disrupt your daily schedule, since they’re rarely used. These could be rooms like spare bedrooms or the basement.
- Clothing that’s out-of-season: Because you likely won’t need to access out-of-season clothing before you move, these can be some of the first items packed up. Getting clothing you’re not currently using out of the way in the beginning can also help you feed your packing momentum!
- Artwork and pictures: Some artwork can be a little tricky to pack, which may make you want to save them until the last minute. However, since it is a non-essential item, home décor of any type is good to pack early.
- Odds-and-ends and knick-knacks: When you get to moving day, small items can overwhelm you. This can lead you to shove random belongings haphazardly into boxes — potentially causing them to break or get lost. Instead of scrabbling to organize these items at the last minute, put these possessions at the top of your packing list.
- Extra towels and sheets: If you have excess towels, sheet and other linen lying around, make them early packing items. Just keep a set or two of bed sheets and towels in use and plan to wash those frequently until you’re settled in your new home.
- If you’re a frequent reader, choose a few books you want to read until moving day and pack the rest away. Be sure to set aside any borrowed books to go back to the library or friends who may have lent them to you.
Get More Tips for Moving and Storage from Self Storage Plus
At Self Storage Plus, we want to help make your moving experience a breeze. That’s why we provide a variety of resources like our moving, packing and storage guides. These step-by-step guides can help make the moving process simpler by providing you with tips that are easy to follow. We also offer an assortment of storage features where you can store your items during your move or if you find yourself short on space.
Find a Self Storage Plus location in the greater Washington, DC and Baltimore, MD areas today.
