Moving may be a stressful process, but it's much easier when you have everything you need handy. Purchasing specific items before your move is a great way to reduce this stress. This guide will tell you about everything you need for moving day, so you'll know what to buy in the weeks leading up to the move.
Packing supplies
- Boxes. If you're packing yourself, you'll need to organize your belongings into boxes for the move. Whether you are moving yourself or hiring professional movers, having enough boxes for all of your possessions is important.
- Tape. Of course, you'll have to secure all of the boxes after you're done packing. Be sure to find packing tape that is durable enough to survive the move and keep your boxes closed during the trip.
- Scissors. You might need scissors to cut the tape, but make sure you pack this item in an obvious location so you can find it when you arrive at your destination. Having scissors during the unpacking process will make it a lot smoother for you and your family.
- Marker or labels. An important aspect of the packing process is making sure everything is organized in a way that makes sense. Use permanent markers or labels to differentiate each box's contents. Organizing boxes by room is the simplest way to pack, labelling what room the box belongs in as well as a summary of what it contains.
- Bubble wrap. To keep your contents safe during shipment, you'll want to carefully pack any valuable or fragile items with bubble wrap. This will prevent the items from bouncing around during transit and protect them from major damage.
- Garbage bags. When packing nice clothes, you can cover groups of garments with large plastic garbage bags to protect them from stains and rips. This is a good alternative to folding expensive clothing and wrinkling dress shirts or suit jackets, especially if you need specific articles of clothing immediately when you arrive at your new home.
On the move
- Snacks. You and your family are going to get hungry while on the road. Bring enough snacks for everyone, and be sure you pack extra snacks just in case. Moving is a very stressful time, and it's only more stressful when you're starving.
- Pet supplies. If you have a pet, make sure you have everything your animal needs for the move. This may include a leash, a crate or bed, and enough food and snacks to last your pet the entire trip. Pack bowls so your animal can eat while in transit and during the first night at the new home, as well as bottled water to keep him hydrated. This bottled water could also come in handy for your family.
- Music. Listening to music while packing for your move can make it a less stressful process for everyone. Also, upbeat music can improve moving day while on the road with your family. Good tunes could even come in handy during your first night at your new home, loosening you up for the dreaded unpacking process. An mp3 player or an iPod would be a good investment, as well as a set of speakers.
Overnight kit
- Aspirin. Moving can cause a lot of headaches, so be prepared with some aspirin. This could also come in handy if you're sore from packing or unpacking the truck.
- Toiletries. Buy enough supplies for your entire family to survive a day or two in the new home. You'll need the usual toiletries, including toothbrushes and toothpaste, shampoo, soap and deodorant.
- Paper towels and toilet paper. Purchase toilet paper and paper towels for the first night or two. When packing these items, make them easily accessible for your family.
With all of the items listed above, you'll be completely prepared for your move. If you think some items that aren't on this list could facilitate your moving day, then go ahead and buy those, too! For example, your new home may not have an enclosed shower, so you might want to purchase a shower curtain and a set of hooks for your first few nights in the house. There's nothing wrong with being prepared for your move. |