Moving is difficult. We are all too aware of that. Even when you have enough time, there are just so many things to keep in mind. And when you need to move in a hurry, the smallest problem may seem like the end of the world. But fear not! Authority Moving Group is here to help you with our list of packing tips for moving in a hurry.
Tip 1: Keep your cool
Once you realize you have to move, and fast, you might feel overwhelmed. You might feel desperate, wondering: “How will I do all this? Can I do it? Will I have enough time?” Questions will start popping in your head, mental pressure will start to rise and, quite quickly, you will feel stressed out and paralyzed, without any will to carry on. Stop! Make tea or coffee, whichever you prefer, grab a pen and paper and sit down. Congratulations! You’ve pulled through the most difficult part!
Tip 2: Book the movers
Now that you’re calm and ready to conquer, let’s get down to business. The first thing you want to do is contact a reputable moving company such as ours interstate movers Florida. Explain the situation, and spare no detail. Notify them on the date of the move, where are you moving from and where you’re moving to. Make sure to let them know if you have items that are difficult to move, such as piano, as those items often require specialized equipment. If there’s enough time, ask them to do an on-site estimate and ask for a quote. This way, you will have an idea of how much money the move is going to cost you.
Tip 3: Get organized
Since the time is in short supply when you’re moving in a hurry, you shouldn’t rush into it without a plan. Yes, you will spend an hour planning but it will save you a ton of time in the long run. So, that pen and paper you grabbed at the beginning? It’s time to put them to good use. Go room to room, closet by closet, cupboard by cupboard, and write down what you will need in your new place and what you can’t live without. Don’t get into details. If you can’t decide on certain items, make a note, put a question mark next to them and move on. Indecisiveness is a time sink, and you don’t need it. You will get back to those items once essentials are packed.
Tip 4: Don’t do it alone
Four hands work faster than two. Don’t be shy to ask friends and family for help. You’re trying to be as efficient as you can, and a little help can significantly cut the amount of time needed for packing. An even better option is to hire professional packers. Experienced people who know exactly what they’re doing are the best help you can get.
Tip 5: Get supplies
If you decide on the DIY method of packing, you will need to hit the store and get packing supplies. Get good quality supplies, you don’t need to waste time wondering if the box is going to tear or if the scotch tape is going to hold. Here’s a list of things you will need:
- Boxes - make sure to get different sizes and always get one or two more than you (think) you need. As you won’t have the time to pack everything perfectly, it’s better to have a few spare than running to the store to get more.
- Packing tape - get a few rolls. You’ll have to seal the boxes and secure the bottoms or even sides.
- Cushioning materials - bubble wrap or foam peanuts will ensure that your breakables stay in one piece.
- Markers - those boxes will need to be properly labeled, especially ones with breakables inside. And it will be so much easier not to have to go through all the boxes to find something you need while unpacking.
In case of emergency
Another option, though not recommended, is using trash bags for packing clothes and similar non-breakable items. If you opt for this option, be sure to get heavy-duty bags and not overfill them. It’s still just a plastic bag, prone to tearing.
With organizational tips out of the way, let’s dive into packing tips for moving in a hurry.
Tip 6: Pack essentials
With shopping and organization out of the way, it’s time to start packing! Since you will need to function while you’re settling, or while your goods are in transit, start by packing an essentials bag. Take a suitcase or a duffel bag and fill it with things you use every day - change of clothes, toiletries, meds, documents, chargers. Keep in mind how long you’re going to live “out of the bag” and pack accordingly.
Tip 7: Contain your inner perfectionist
Of course, this doesn’t mean that you should just throw random things into boxes. Remember, time is already scarce, and you’re trying to save as much of it as you can. So don’t start sorting, start packing! Imperative here is for everything to be packed securely. If it means putting socks in the cooking pot and then packing it in a box - why not? You can even use your clothes and towels to wrap plates, glasses and other breakables if you run out of bubble-wrap. An additional layer of security doesn’t hurt, and you may end up saving some space.
Tip 8: Don’t get emotional
If you’re not using it - you don’t need it. Be prepared to throw away or donate items you don’t see yourself using in foreseeable future. Also, at this point, it would be a good time to revisit the list in Tip 3 of our packing tips for moving in a hurry. If items you marked are still under question marks, there’s a high probability you don’t need them.
Tip 9: Don’t overexert yourself
This is probably the most important of all the packing tips for moving in a hurry. You can stay up all night packing but how will that impact your efficiency the next day? Exertion can lead to fatigue and fatigue can lead to injuries. At this point, there’s no need to risk your health. You’ve organized well, you got all the supplies you need, you packed essentials. Even if the move is last-minute and you’re a complete packing beginner, don’t worry - you will manage to do everything.