Retire Early Lifestyle
Retirement; like your parents, but way cooler

In 1991 Billy and Akaisha Kaderli retired at the age of 38. Now, into their 4th decade of this financially independent lifestyle, they invite you to take advantage of their wisdom and experience.

Packing Tips for Moving House

Jackson Perry
 

Moving house is one of life’s most exciting and daunting experiences. With so much to organize and manage, packing your belongings can quickly become overwhelming. However, with the right strategies, you can streamline the process and ensure your items arrive at your new home safely and efficiently. Here are some essential packing tips to help you through your move.

Start Early

One of the most significant advantages you can give yourself is time. Begin packing well in advance—ideally, at least a month before your move. This lets you pack systematically and reduces the stress of last-minute rushing. Begin with items you use less often, such as seasonal clothing, holiday decorations, or books. It is also a good idea to book professional movers well in advance. Websites like www.shiply.com are a great place to turn for quotes from trusted moving companies. 

Create a Packing Plan

Developing a packing plan can help you stay organized. Make a checklist that outlines what to pack, when to pack it, and which room it belongs to. Break down the tasks into smaller chunks to prevent feeling overwhelmed. Consider assigning a day for each room, making it easier to track your progress.  

Gather Packing Supplies

Having the right supplies is essential for a successful packing experience. Collect various-sized boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, and markers. You can often find free boxes from local grocery stores or online marketplaces. Additionally, consider using suitcases for heavier items, as they are easier to carry and more durable.

Declutter Before Packing

Before packing, take the chance to declutter your belongings. Sort through each room and decide what to keep. This step helps reduce how many items you need to pack and also makes unpacking easier in your new home. A good rule of thumb is to get rid of anything you haven’t used in the past year.  

Pack Room by Room

Packing room by room helps maintain organization and ensures that similar items are kept together. Label each box with what’s inside it and the room it belongs to, making unpacking more efficient. You might also consider using color-coded labels for each room, which can make the process even simpler for movers or helpers.

Protect Fragile Items

When packing fragile items, take extra care to ensure they are well-protected. Use bubble wrap or packing paper to protect fragile items like glassware, dishes, and electronics. Fill any empty spaces in boxes with packing peanuts or crumpled paper to prevent items from shifting during transit. Clearly label these boxes as “fragile” to alert movers.

Use a Packing Strategy

Consider using the “first in, last out” strategy when packing your boxes. Items you use most frequently should be packed last and placed on top in the moving truck. This way, they are easily accessible upon arrival. Additionally, pack a “survival kit” for the first few days in your new home, containing essentials like toiletries, a change of clothes, basic kitchen supplies, and important documents.

Stay Positive and Flexible

Lastly, try to keep a positive attitude throughout the moving process. Understand that unexpected challenges may arise, and flexibility will help you manage stress. Remember that moving is not just about packing; it’s an opportunity for a fresh start and new adventures in a new space. 

Retire Early Lifestyle appeals to a different kind of person – the person who prizes their independence, values their time, and who doesn’t want to mindlessly follow the crowd.

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