Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, packing is a stressful endeavor that requires some organization and planning. Being a smart packer isn’t only about putting heavy items on the bottom and lighter things on top; it’s also about knowing what NOT to pack. Here are five things you shouldn’t pack away in boxes for your move.
#1: The Entire Contents of Your Fridge
Before we go any further, we should probably say that we don’t condone throwing away perfectly good food. However, in the week leading up to your move, try to limit the amount of groceries you buy so that you have very little left over the night before. If your move is local, simply placing your condiments and brand new jug of milk in a cooler—not a box—should be fine. But try to consume your frozen goods before you move or give them to a worthy neighbour.
#2: Items That You Don’t Know if You Want
If you have clothes that you never wore sitting in your closet, don’t bring them with you. They’ll just be a burden in your new home. Take a look at what you’re packing and decide if what you have is really worth making the trip. If you’re not 100% sure that you want to bring all those board games or your old collection of scrapbooks, start off this new chapter in your life on the right foot by reducing the clutter you bring to your next home.
#3: Plants
Depending on how attached you are to your houseplants, it might make more sense to leave the flora for the next homeowner or to a neighbour. Plants are very sensitive and can quickly pick up on environmental changes. In other words, there’s no guarantee your plants will survive the trip. However, if your plants have been in your family for decades and you simply cannot part with them, make sure to properly prepare them before the move by pruning them and ensuring that the soil is moist.
#4: Pet Supplies
Dogs and cats get stressed out by moving too. You’ll probably need your arsenal of toys, treats, pee pads, and litter just to keep them calm, comfortable, and entertained.
#5: Toiletries
When you arrive at your new home, the last thing you’ll probably want to do is to start unpacking right away. As soon as the moving truck rolls away, your first thought is to take a much-needed breather and to simply relax and introduce yourself to your new home. That’s why packing the essentials in an easy-to-access overnight bag (and not a box) will allow you to easily locate your toothbrush, toilet paper, and shampoo in case you want to take it easy that first night.
Contact Focus Moving Services today to request a quote.
