Are you planning a big move to a new city or state? While moving to a new place is thrilling, packing and transporting items to a new home can be challenging, especially if you are moving from Louisville. The city’s summers are hot and humid, with high temperatures averaging in the mid-80s to low 90s. Moving in this type of weather is difficult, as it is uncomfortable to be outside for extended periods. Furthermore, Louisville’s traffic patterns can make it hard to transport items during peak hours, i.e., 4 pm to 6 pm. You might also be concerned about whether your stuff will remain intact during your moving trip.
That is a valid concern, given that the larger the distance, the greater the risk of damage to your belongings. To mitigate such risks, we have come up with some valuable packing tips. Following these tips, you’ll cruise down the highway with all your belongings in no time. So read on to make your long-distance move as smooth as possible.
Make a Moving Checklist and Timeline
Make a detailed moving checklist and book your movers in advance! The good ones fill up quickly. For instance, if you are moving from Louisville, research Louisville long distance moving companies and check the reviews before booking your movers.
Some other things you should consider doing include:
- Make an inventory of everything you’re taking to help ensure nothing gets left behind.
- Pack room by room. Start with things you rarely use, like seasonal decorations or books. Pack heavier items in small boxes so they’re easier to lift.
- Keep essentials aside in a ‘first-day bag.’ These include things you’ll want immediately, like chargers, medications, snacks, pajamas, etc.
- Don’t forget to change your address for bills, subscriptions, etc., at least two weeks before the move.
Putting in the extra effort during the packing and moving will pay off big time once you’re unpacked and settled into your new home.
Use the Right Packing Supplies for Your Items
Using the proper materials for each of your belongings will ensure they make it to your new home safe and sound.
1. Boxes, boxes, boxes!
Get small, medium, and large boxes for different items. Label each box on multiple sides with its contents and the room it should go in at your new place. Use color-coded labels so that you know which room every box should go to.
2. Bubble wrap and packing paper
Wrap delicate items like dishware, electronics, and knickknacks individually in bubble wrap or packing paper before placing them in a box. For an extra cushion layer, line the bottom of the boxes with packing paper as well.
4. Markers, tape, and labels
As you pack each box, mark its contents and destination room on all sides. Seal each box securely with packing tape.
5. Furniture pads
For larger furniture, invest in furniture sliders, pads, or blankets. Wrap pads around corners, legs, and any protruding parts of dressers, tables, chairs, etc., to prevent dinging and scratching during moving and unloading.
Don’t Forget Important Documents and Valuables
When moving long distances, don’t forget to pack your important documents and valuables. These items may not be replaceable, so it’s essential to keep them safe and secure during the move.
1. Gather documents
Consider critical paperwork like birth certificates, passports, social security cards, vehicle titles, and insurance policies. Place them together in a folder or small safe for easy transport. Make copies of everything if the originals get lost or damaged during your move.
2. Protect valuables
Gather jewelry, watches, and other expensive valuables and either wear them, carry them with you, or store them in a locked box that you’ll transport personally.
3. Don’t forget electronic accessories
Collect all chargers, cords, and electronic accessories and keep them with the devices they power. Do a final check in every room to ensure you have them all.
4. Important Medications
Make sure any essential medications, prescriptions, and medical devices are packed and will be accessible during your move. Bring at least a week’s supply in your luggage or carry-on bag.
By taking the time to pack and transport these essential items carefully, you’ll know they’re secure during the move.
Get Insurance
When moving your valuables long distances, opting for moving insurance is necessary for maximum protection. You’ve spent years accumulating your belongings, so ensure they’re covered if the unthinkable happens during your move.
Moving insurance will reimburse you for the value of your items should anything break, get damaged, or go missing in transit. Various levels of coverage are available to suit your needs and budget. Replacement value coverage will repay you the total value of any lost or damaged goods, while basic coverage may only reimburse a depreciated amount.
Know What You Can and Cannot Put in a Moving Van
1. The Dos
When packing for your big move, there are some items you absolutely should load into the moving van. All your bare essentials like:
- Clothing, shoes, accessories – Keep everything washed, dried, and packed in labeled boxes.
- Linens and towels – Bedding, blankets, pillows, and bath linens should all make the journey with you.
- Small furniture – Lamps, side tables, chairs, and stools are perfect for a moving van. Just secure them in place so they don’t shift during the drive.
2. The Don’ts
Some items pose hazards or legal issues if packed into a moving van, so avoid including:
- Flammables – No fuel, lighters, paints, or cleaning chemicals. These are safety risks and, in many cases, illegal to transport.
- Perishables – Food, plants, and anything living should not go in the moving van. They won’t fare well in the conditions and could create quite a mess.
- Valuables – Keep jewelry, documents, electronics, and other high-value items with you. Don’t risk losing or damaging them during the move.
A quick check of the dos and don’ts lists will give you the confidence you’re sending only appropriate belongings to your new home.
Conclusion
Moving can be a stressful experience, especially when it comes to packing. However, by following the tips mentioned above, you can make the process smoother and less overwhelming. With these guidelines in mind, you’ll be well on your way to a successful move!
And as you embark on your new adventure, with a well-packed move behind you and an exciting new home ahead of you, it’s time to look forward to new beginnings and all the possibilities they hold.