The fewer boxes you have the fewer trips your movers will have to make at both locations. If you are paying by the hour, this could result in significant savings. Many people pack in a hurry. They throw things in boxes and seal them up even though there is a little space left. That little bit of space may not look like much if you are packing up home furnishings, but you will be surprised at what you can still fit in there. If you start packing in advance, you can take your time and make the most of every single box. You may be surprised at just how affordable your move actually becomes.
Skip the Wardrobe Boxes
One of the first things people buy when they start packing is wardrobe boxes. Not only are these the most expensive boxes you can buy, they typically dictate a lot of wasted space. Most people do not need wardrobe boxes. First of all, if you are moving nearby, consider laying a sheet down in your backseat and they lying your clothes flat back there. If this is not an option, then just use large boxes. Anything that is in your dresser is already folded and can easily make the trip in a box. Chances are good that a lot of stuff in your closet won’t even wrinkle whether it is removed from the hanger and folded or left on the hanger and just placed inside.
I Need Wardrobe Boxes
Fair enough, there are some people who absolutely need wardrobe boxes. If you are moving cross-country and you have a closet full of gowns or high-dollar suits, then the last thing you want to do is fold anything. This does not mean that you just place these items inside and waste all the extra space, though. This is valuable space you can use for a lot of other things.
A few days before the move, go ahead and fill the bottom with bulky items. This could include shoes, sweatshirts, sweaters, fleece, jeans, jackets, belts, and purses. Then, when you are ready to pack your clothes, lay a few shopping bags or a blanket down to create a divider. Lay the garments on top and seal. You don’t want to place anything heavy on top of the clothes, but if you still have space in the box you could put pillows and linens in there.
Make the Most of Every Box
When you pack breakables, wrap them in towels, blankets, linens, and even t-shirts. There is no point spending money on bubble wrap when these things mentioned will need to get packed anyway. Is there a little space in the box that nothing else will fit in? Small gaps are perfect for balls of socks, rolled tank tops, mittens, etc. Not only are you fitting more items in the box, but you also help reduce the risk of anything breaking due to jiggling around.
Don’t Seal Yet
When it comes to moving day morning, there are always odds and ends that you have overlooked. You may be tempted to start another box for these random leftovers, but if you left some boxes unsealed you won’t have to. That forgotten flip-flop in the back of the closet or your coffee mug from breakfast will squeeze into boxes you already have packed. Seal the final box when the movers are there and you know that absolutely everything is safely in a box.
