If you’re getting ready for a big move, you might be tempted to stuff all your items into boxes and get the job done as quickly as possible. Although it may seem counter-productive, there are a few items you shouldn’t pack up when moving out of your home. Whether you’re hiring a Canadian relocation service for a full or partial packing service, or tackling the packing on your own, here are a few things you should refrain from packing during your move:
Important Documents
Whether you are moving overseas, between countries, or locally, there are different legal documents required for crossing borders. Official documents like birth certificates, marriage licenses, social insurance numbers, bank records, and passports should be kept with you at all times. If you are travelling with children or other family members, ensure their documents are available and in a safe space during the move.
Perishables
Food is a big one. No matter how tightly your perishables are wrapped up, bottled, or jarred, they can still break, spill, and attract pests during your move. Avoid packing any food into your moving truck. Instead, for moves within driving distance, consider packing a cooler with food for you and your family. It’ll help save money, and provide your children with some of the comforts of home.
Antiques and Heirlooms
Although movers take great care in ensuring all your items are safely packed and arranged during shipping, you may want to consider putting your antique items into storage, or leaving them with a close family member or friend. Other, smaller items like jewelry and sentimental accessories should be packed in a personal bag and carried with you during the move.
Old Clothes and Furniture
A big part of moving is knowing when to be ruthless about what to keep, and what to toss. If you haven’t used an item in more than a year, you likely don’t need it. Consider donating any old or unused clothes and furniture to a local charity in your community. It’ll save space in the moving vessel, and go towards a good cause.
Hazardous Materials
For your safety and the safety of those moving your items, it’s imperative you refrain from packing any flammable or dangerous goods, like ammunition, aerosol cans, flammable liquids like lighter fluid, household cleaners like bleach and ammonia, pesticides, alcohol, and propane.
Packing is one of the most tedious parts about moving—there’s no doubt about it. Ensuring you pack safely is what’s most important, for both your safety and the safety of the professional movers you hire for the job. At Focus Moving Services Inc., we offer a variety of reliable relocation services in Canada, for international, national, and local moves via airfreight, lift vans, and shipping containers. To learn more about our moving services, get in touch today!
