Moving House? We have some tips on efficient packing

It is estimated that 90% of people underestimate both the time they need to pack properly and the number of boxes required. Packing is not something that can be left to the last minute, i.e. removal day.
Packing properly has two purposes. It protects fragile and delicate items and it gathers several articles together to make one object to carry.

Stress-free packing

Step one to save time and stress is to make lists. Moving is a great time to do some de-cluttering. Take some time to sift through your belongings and have a clear-out.
You can make up a box for charity and if you’ve time, hold a car boot sale or log onto an online auction, then put the proceeds of your sold goods towards some re-decorating or a new carpet.
If you are moving to a new house and planning to put some of your belongings in store for a while, perhaps until the new home is decorated to your liking, you will need to divide your belongings into those things you absolutely can’t do without and those that can be stored.
Using the right materials also makes a huge difference – stout cartons with lids or overlapping flaps, clean wrapping paper, strong adhesive tape, stout bin liners, labels, pen.

Label boxes so that you can find items quickly

Make sure you have enough boxes of different sizes:

Packing heavy things in large boxes then moving it becomes very difficult and it gets unnecessarily hard. So you’ll need smaller boxes for books, larger ones for lighter stuff. Boxes made from corrugated cardboard are stronger than regular ones.
Other packing materials: large bin liners are great for soft furnishings like cushions and for bedding. Also, you can use things like large kitchen waste bins, cleaned out, to pack smaller kitchen items.

Assign different boxes for different rooms:

By labeling them it will make it easier for movers to know where to put things when they unload and it will also save you time when unpacking.

Packing breakables:

Dishes break easily so pack them in bundles of 5 or 6 using of lots of packing paper or newspaper between each and then wrapping the entire set as well. Use a lot of bunched up newspaper or wrapping paper as padding. The same applies to cups and bowls.

Don’t forget the “essentials” box:

make sure you carry this one with you. Instant access to coffee, tea, snacks, cups and a kettle may be welcome soon after you arrive. As will plates, utensils and a kitchen cloth. You should also keep important household documents with you.
Prepare an overnight bag for everyone in the family, and make sure that there is enough toilet paper and toiletries for everyone.
Other useful items you might need are a torch, a first-aid kit including pain relievers, pencil and paper, and re-closable plastic bags, along with a small tool kit.
And finally, when packing begin at the top of the house and move downwards. If you have an attic, it’s a good idea to sort it out first.