Packing Basics

Packing well is key to having a smooth Do-It-Yourself move. As the first part of the move, it will set the tone for everything that follows.

As with all parts of the move, you should formulate a solid packing plan and follow it through to completion. Try moving through the packing process methodically. One method is to list rooms and closets in the order you wish to pack. This will keep you focused as well as give you a measure of your progress.

You can use the "least used" method to guide your packing. This involves finding the things in your house that you use the least or can most easily do without. A good method for this is to look in the back of closets, drawers, cabinets, etc. If you pack from the back of your storage, you can keep those items you use most available the longest.

Starting early cannot be over-emphasized. When you look around your house, it may seem that it should be no problem to pack up your stuff. In reality, most people find that their packing takes much longer than they had estimated.

Helpful Hints

• Avoid packing primarily in rubber storage containers. They are great for storage, but they typically offer much less crush resistance than boxes and their design tends to leave a lot of unused space when stacked.
• The best packing plans finish with you living out of a suitcase. If you can plan on living for the last week prior to departure with only those items you need for the trip, then you can avoid the last minute "packing panic."
• Packing can be a little depressing. You're dismantling your home and preparing to leave for unfamiliar territory. Try to avoid packing alone and consider some upbeat music to help with the emotional drag this can otherwise create.