Legend has it that moving house is the most stressful experiences you can encounter. Securing the finances, prepping the house to list, finding a new property, the paperwork, selling your home…it’s a lot. A lot can be said for having an award-winning agent on your side to help coordinate & communicate on your behalf, but you already know that! Moving to a new home is exciting, with so much to look forward to. You’ve maybe already started thinking about colour schemes, the parties you can host, where the kids’ toys will go. But, what about the packing?
How do you begin to pack up your entire belongings into boxes? Simply, box by box. We know the process of packing can be daunting but to help you navigate the sea of cardboard and stuff, we’ve compiled a set of expert packing tips for a stress-free move:
Start early
Begin packing well in advance of your moving date. Starting early allows you to tackle the task incrementally, reducing the last-minute rush. Make a plan – and stick to it. If you’ve packed some miscellaneous bits & pieces, jot it down or even take photos of your boxes as visual reminders. Future you will be thankful!
Declutter before you pack
Before reaching for the packing materials, take the opportunity to declutter. Donate, sell, or discard items you no longer need. This not only lightens your load but also ensures you’re only bringing what truly matters to your new space – and you might make a few pennies in the process.
Read our blog about where you can donate and sell here.
https://www.northwooduk.com/aberdeen-estate-agents/articles/spring-into-action/
Gather quality packing supplies
Invest in sturdy boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and packing peanuts. Having the right materials ensures your belongings are well-protected during transit. Ask around and search the likes of Facebook MarketPlace and Gumtree for pre-used supplies.
Pack room by room
Organise your packing by tackling one room at a time. Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to – this will help when you start to unpack too! It’s generally a good idea to start with the room(s) you use least, and consider condensing larger rooms to the essentials (ie kitchen/dining and toy rooms, out of season clothes) By clearing a room means it can double up as a storage space for your boxes.
Pack a moving day essentials box
Prepare a box with essential items you’ll need on moving day and the first night in your new home. Include toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, and any items you’ll require immediately. Don’t forget mugs, teabags and water bottles!
Double up items
Use your clothes as padding for fragile items. Wrap breakables in clothing to save on bubble wrap and make efficient use of space. This is especially useful if going by room so your bedroom nic-nacs are in with your clothes. Also make use of towels – and suitcases!
Secure valuables secure
Keep important documents, jewellery and valuables in a separate and secure box. You might want to personally transport this box to ensure its safety. just in case.
Don’t overpack boxes
While it might be tempting to maximise box space, avoid overpacking. Heavy, overstuffed boxes can be difficult to lift and may result in breakage. Trust us, the absolute last thing you want to do – once you’ve packed a box – is repack it.
Ask for help
As much as we’d love it (and to be fair, deserve it) – nobody is giving out ‘good job’ medals for packing. Nothing good will come of being entirely overwhelmed and stressed. If you feel like it’s becoming too much, consider enlisting professional packing services. They do this day-in and day-out, brining expertise & efficiency to the process. If that’s outwith your budget, pull in favours from family, friends and neighbours!
By making a plan and tackling it box by box, you’ll quickly see how you can turn this phase of your move into a well-organised and stressless experience. And, if you have any pro tips – we’d love to hear them!
Wherever you are in your property journey, we wish you all the very best.
Aberdeen: 01224 218450 | Inverurie: 01467 530591
Aberdeen: aberdeen@northwooduk.com | Inverurie: aberdeenshire@northwooduk.com
207-211 Rosemount Place, Aberdeen, AB25 2XS | 23 West High Street, Inverurie, AB51 3SA
