Are you about to buy a house? Then you're also about to move… ugh.

But it doesn't have to be that way. Actually, when you have all the right systems in place, moving is a breeze.

It's also the perfect shot for you to find that favorite t-shirt of yours, which you just know is hidden underneath something. That's why we put together this comprehensive list of packing tips for moving, which will save you hours (probably days) of time and headaches.

Packing Checklist For Moving

Moving Necessities:

• Pair of scissors
• Tissue paper
• Packing paper
• Moving boxes in various sizes
• Packing tape
• Permanent Markers
• A utility knife

Helpful Additions:

• A dolly
• U-Haul trailer or truck
• Some strong friends
• Towels for padding, as well as wiping things down
• Cleaning supplies

Simple Packing Hacks

• Wrap things that could break in tissue paper before packing.
• Detach loose pieces, so they don't fall off during moving.
• Take your ink cartridges out of your printer so they don't leak.
• Make sure your computer files are backed up just in case it gets damaged.
• Don't ever pack anything highly flammable, such as nail polish remover, matches or paint.
• Label every box. Don't expect yourself to simply remember where you put everything.

What To Pack First When Moving

To put it simply: Pack the things you need the least first.

For example, if you're already storing things in a storage container for reasons unrelated to moving, pack up those items first (if you're moving to another city).

Only you will be able to pick the items that fit the "non-essential" bill, but here are a few suggestions to get your wheels spinning:

• Art and decorations
• DVDs, books and other entertainment media you won't need for the duration of the move
• Extras of anything (ex. towels, linens, office supplies)
• Out-of-season clothing

On a per box basis: Pack the biggest, heaviest items first, then the smaller items, and fill in the spaces with loosely crumpled packing paper.

Packing Clothes For Moving

• Sort all the clothing to get rid of all irrelevant, outdated, outgrown, or worn out items.
• Pre-pack the clothes months in advance that you know you won't need (i.e. out-of-season clothes).
• Group clothing by season, as well as by their purpose.
• You probably have some suitcases lying around that you'll have to move anyway, so be sure to pack them up with clothes so you're not wasting any space.
• Alternatively, leave all your clothes in your dressers and secure the drawers with stretch wraps.
• Pack shoes, hats and accessories separately from the clothes, so they don't get damaged or mixed up when moving.

Using Hangers When Moving

When it comes to moving hanging clothes, a wardrobe box is your new best friend. These boxes are tall and have a hanging rack on the top. That means you can literally grab everything hanging in your closet and transfer it directly to the packing box without any headaches. Plus, when you're unpacking, the process is equally as easy.

Packing Books For Moving

1. Use paper to line the bottom of the box.
2. Put the books on their edges (opposite the spine) into the box.
3. Use crumpled up paper to fill the spaces, so the books don't move around.
4. Close the box with packing tape.
5. Label the box so you don't forget what's in it.

Packing Tips For Moving Long-Distance

• Padding is key: While you always want to make sure every item in every box is well cushioned, it's absolutely vital for long distance trips.
• Get movers insurance.
• Keep personal documents that you'll need with you (driver’s license, social security card, passport, etc.).
• Pack your mattress in a box, so it doesn't get damaged.
• Avoid packing food or liquid.
• Label every box with your name, not just what's in it.
• If you’re moving into a condo/apartment, check to make sure they don’t have regulations against moving trucks (many do).

When you are ready to start thinking about your next move, give one of the professional agents at Network Real Estate a call. We can help you through every step of the process and help you get your home sold as fast as possible at the best price.
 
Neal Johnson is a CMCA, CRB, CNE and GRI-certified, licensed real estate broker at Network Real Estate, which has exclusively served a high volume of property sales and purchases in the greater Wilmington area for more than 30 years. With three offices at College Road, historic downtown Wilmington and Pleasure Island, Network’s brokers are widespread and well-versed in this marketplace, making Network a preferred real estate company for first-time homebuyers and beyond.