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As many of you know, the Mama and her family will be moving this year. Twice. We move within the next couple of weeks to a rental house while we wait for our house to be built. How does this involve you? I need packing tips and tricks! (And I'm willing to bribe you for them!)
For today only, if you leave me a comment below telling me one good packing tip, your name will automatically be entered to win a $50 Target gift card. Just make sure your name is in the comment along with your tip and that's it! The contest ends at midnight CST tonight and tomorrow morning, I will randomly pick one comment as the winner (it doesn't have to be the best comment...just one of them!). Only one entry per person per blog (if you comment on both of my blogs, you could win twice!).
Wait? Is $50 not enough? I'm being extra generous today because over at my foodie blog, I'm giving away another $50 Target gift card for the best house building tip (even if you've never built a house, you probably have a suggestion or idea that I might want to use). Click over there to enter that one...same rules apply.
Best of luck! And thanks for letting me steal your ideas ;).
My best suggestion for moving is that you designate each room in your new house to be a COLOR - and then label each box with a COLOR of the room it is going to. Then when you get to the house - put up a big paper in each room of whatever color it is. Movers don't know which is "Smith's Room" or in big houses what is dining room vs. living room, etc.....and you don't want to have to constantly be guiding every box and where it should go. Even if you do label the boxes with a description "dining room" that is fine... as long you put a sign in each room so they know what you are calling each room! Doing that is better than nothing - but the color system is great for those with terrible handwriting like me! :)
ReplyDeleteAlso, designate a spot in each room you want the boxes so they aren't all put in the middle of the room. Designate a corner of each room with a sign where specifically you want the boxes to go.
The less you make the movers think, the quicker it will be! :)
I assume you are getting movers.
Hope you are doing great and enjoy 2013 so far!
I just moved at the beginning of this month, and my best tip is to get lots of help with the move! Our friends and in laws helped us, and it went very smooth!
ReplyDeleteFirst try to do a little bit everyday and do not put it all off until the very end. Organization is key so make sure to label, label, and label some more! I try to write on the outside of the box everything that is in there - which helps out tremendously when your looking for things!!! Good Luck!!!
ReplyDeleteFind somebody in your neighborhood or community that has just moved and ask for their old boxes! You can also ask moving companies if they have any used boxes they would give you. Good luck!
ReplyDeletePack up the small things first like pictures, vases, etc and pack up the rooms you use the least first. And get your big baby brother to help!!
ReplyDeleteAs a girl who has moved four times in six years, thanks to the Marine Corps, I have learned many a thing about moving. My biggest piece of advice is if you are having movers come put anything you don't want them taking in one space (we usually pick a closet), and then tape it off so they don't go into it.
ReplyDeleteIf you are doing it yourself, my tip would be to buy wardrobe boxes for closets. Seems obvious right?! They hold a huge amount of stuff on the bottom for shoes, etc and also have the rack for clothes. Also, they are great for the kids toys and bigger things that wouldn't fit in a normal box.
Good luck!
My best advice is to hire a mover. You will never regret it, it is money well spent. As far as packing, pack by room instead of by items. Much easier that way!
ReplyDeleteMy name is Jodi.
Wrap all of your dishes and glasses in towels instead of paper. Once you get to your new place, you can just put them straight into the cabinet without having to wash them.
ReplyDeleteMy best advice is to label each box for which room it will go to on your new place. We were able to get large boxes from our local grocery store in the late evening when they were stocking shelves. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteMy family and I move into our new house tomorrow, and i, like you, have 2 small kids, so trying to pack and organize and take care of them all at the same time was challenging. My suggestion to you, if you are moving yourselves w/o movers, is to plan a couple of days in advance to have your kids watched by someone else so that you can concentrate on packing. I would also suggest asking a very organized person to help you. For me, that as my sister-in-law. and really, thank God for her and her giving heart because she has helped me out so much and helped minimize my stress! She is also a very practical and objective person, so with her help i was able to get rid of ALOT of things that i realistically did not need or have not used in years. She is also so good at making things "fit" in boxes or the moving truck, so when we needed to get more things to fit, she was the one to call. And don't say no to help. If anyone offers their time, take them up on it! You will be glad that you did! Good luck!
ReplyDeleteMy advice is to keep everything hanging! It is so much easier to keep all the clothes hanging and transfer them rather than packing and unpacking them all in boxes. Good luck!
ReplyDelete-Kim R
I'm moving 10 hours away! I had movers come move me for the first time! They packed yesterday and will load the truck today! They are some master packers and it truly is an art! I was amazed at how they fitted boxes for random shaped things! Movers are the way to go. The company paid for the move, but I bought meals yesterday. I really don't want my stuff broken or stolen so I figured sucking up and making friends with them was the way to go!
ReplyDeleteGood luck on your move and Congrats on your new house! Exciting
My best tip would be to just start now. Gather boxes everytime you go to the grocery store and start putting things away a little at a time. label every box so you know what it is. I bougth red tubs for my christmas stuff orange tubs for fall decorations etc. Hope this helps.
ReplyDeleteKristin Stout
My advice is to go through your stuff first and get rid of everything you haven't used in the last year!
ReplyDeleteIf Sean will help you move shirtless I will be there! I will help you pack, load, unload and organize! Just let me know when you need me! Haha!
ReplyDeleteplan ahead for free boxes! Shoe stores have the best ones. They are all about the same size, a good packing size and generally in much better shape than other stores.
ReplyDeletePack a little at a time, strat now. label everything. color code all your nice decorations christmas in red tubs, fall in orange tubs etc. Kristin Stout
ReplyDeleteShay - my advice is to downsize your belongings as much as you can prior to the move. You may have things you don't use anymore or you don't want in the new house, donate it now before you move and then you don't have to pack and move it. We did that to a certain degree on our move this last year but not as much as we should have. good luck!
ReplyDeleteDoreen
My suggestion on packing is the same as what I posted on the food blog side....try to involve your kids! Even if it's as simple as letting them pack up and then unpack their stuffed animals. The whole move will be less stressful on them if you allow them to help out!
ReplyDeleteKim Bayt
Create “Open Me First” boxes- Pick one or two boxes per room as "Open Me First" boxes. Put in them the things you'll need first at your new location. Then mark the sides of the boxes so you'll know which ones are which.
ReplyDeleteLeave an empty box in each room (labeled) and when you are in these rooms,just constantly put things away that arent daily used,even getting the kids to help!
ReplyDeleteStart now! Also, try to go ahead and get rid of items and clothes now so that you don't have to move them twice! I did this with clothes (took them to a consignment shop) and other household items I donated. You will feel so much better about not taking things with you that you didn't need!
ReplyDeleteGo to your grocery store and ask them for boxes. Egg boxes are the best. Perfect size, and have handles. I use those for the things I want to move myself. Like my collectibles!
ReplyDeleteDon't move what you're not going to use! :) Take the time to give away or sell any old clothes you're not going to wear, toys that don't get played with, or things you simply won't need in the new house, BEFORE you move. It seems like common sense, but it makes life ten times easier when trying to move in and organize things. Most of all, enjoy it! Order carry out and have a family "party" before you move in. Let the kids explore the house and make it fun for them and you!
ReplyDeleteWe're an AF family and have had our share of moving. All of our moves have been international or coast-coast moves, so we've had experience with lengthy transition times, too. Some time ago, I had this same conversation with another blogger and she asked to post the tips on her blog; it was written specifically with having movers come do it all, but there are many things I would still do or adapt somewhat if I were to ever move myself: http://phillipsphamilyphive.blogspot.com/2009/09/moving-tips-101.html
ReplyDeleteA couple of things I would add- I am very particular about menus for a few weeks prior to the move- mainly because I can't move the food, but if you can pare down your pantry, it's certainly a lot less to pack and carry. Plastic tubs/baskets are helpful for organizing stuff in your transition home. Don't forget to keep out your trash cans, too.
My best tip is to work on a room at a time and get rid of anything that you do not use regularly and put it in separate boxes. Keep these in storage when you move and anything you do not use within the next year, just throw out.
ReplyDeleteTrish
jflynn006@twcny.rr.com
My best tip is to be very organized!! Make sure you label each and every box. Also, keep all the boxes for each room together when you move, then you don't have to look around for them when you get there!
ReplyDeleteWe have moved 7 times in 3 years! From Kentucky to Texas and back again :) My favorite packing tool was the little saran wrap hand held tool that you can buy at Lowe's. It made wrapping pots, pans, coffee maker, etc so much easier than using tape! And we bought a big roll if bubble wrap too. Both made packing the kitchen a lot easier! Good luck!
ReplyDeleteJenny
Save every day items such as newspapers and grocery bags in advance. They are both great for wrapping breakables. And don't forget to label the boxes with the items so you don't have to go searching through them when you move in.
ReplyDeleteKelly D
kellywcuATyahooDOTcom
Purge what you no longer use. Label label label! Start early and keep like items together. Start slow so you don't get overwhelmed. Remember it will go back to 'normal' so try not to stress too much. Lastly, I almost always misplace something major, freak out, then find it, so just be prepared! Good luck!
ReplyDeleteI haven't done this yet, but it's a great idea: Stack your plates with styrofoam plates in between them...easier than wrapping each plate, but keeps them separated and cushioned. Genius!
ReplyDeletePlan adhead. Purge what you no longer use.
ReplyDeleteLable Lable Lable the boxes!
Do a little a day to not get overwhelmed.
Be prepared to misplace things and find it randomly one day!
Good luck
We moved this summer and took on six weeks of a full house renovation and let's just say with little ones (mine were 3 and 1 at the time) it is NOT easy. It was probably hardest for my oldest. Change is just hard on them! So my tip is pack the kids stuff very last and once you move make sure it is the first thing you unpack. It wil help provide a sense of security for them and maybe a little bit of a sanity saver for you ;) Best of luck!
ReplyDeleteI moved a few months ago with a 1.5 year old. It's insane moving with kids, but once you have all of your stuff in the correct rooms, I designated a certain room for each night of the week to unpack. So my first day there, I knew that the baby's room was most important, so I unpacked EVERYTHING in his room and got it completely done. Then, I knew that we'd need kitchen stuff, so I unpacked it (and a lot of the pantry stuff I went ahead and stuck right into the pantry).
ReplyDeleteWe moved this summer and took on six weeks of a full house renovation and let's just say with little ones (mine were 3 and 1 at the time) it is NOT easy. It was probably hardest for my oldest. Change is just hard on them! So my tip is pack the kids stuff very last and once you move make sure it is the first thing you unpack. It wil help provide a sense of security for them and maybe a little bit of a sanity saver for you ;) Best of luck!
ReplyDeleteDownsize! Go through your belongings now and donate/trash anything that hasn't been used in the past year. Good luck with the packing!
ReplyDeleteMy tip would be make sure they are all labeled and as they are moving them put them in the room they should go in so when u go to unpack it will make it easy for you
ReplyDeleteRebecca
Be sure to label each box with what is inside and get rid of things you don't need while you are packing. I donated alot of items to goodwill when my husband and I moved.
ReplyDeleteCasey Hayes
While you're packing, also clean out your stuff and de-clutter! Don't pack something that has been in the back of the drawer for years. Label boxes and keep boxes organized and not too heavy! Good luck and enjoy it! Go in knowing the process will be somewhat stressful and don't let small mishaps frustrate you!!
ReplyDeleteMy best packing tip is: make sure to list what is inside each box, on the outside of the box. It makes it SO much easier when you need to unpack everything and have to find something specific!
ReplyDeleteFrom a momma who just moved overseas...
ReplyDelete*Purge then Pack
*Pack by room - label every box w/detail
*Separate anything you can live w/out while in your rental and just keep it packed
*Move all bedding, linens very first so your first night can be comfortable
*Involve the kids and give yourself plenty of time
*Hire movers for the big pieces/furniture etc.
Happy Move!
Morgan :)
my tip is to look of craiglist or facebook for somebody getting rid of boxes. that way you can get them for free! good luck!
ReplyDeleteThe first night in our new house we hardly had any of our furniture. So my mom, my two brothers, and i had dinner on the kitchen floor. We were all just so excited for our new adventure together! We lived there for 12 years and the last night we were there we ate on the kitchen floor :) as the end gets closer, don't forget to enjoy the house and all the wonderful memories that were had inside!
ReplyDeleteFree boxes! We were able to get boxes from a liqueur store. The boxes that wine bottles are delivered in are awesome. They have individual spaces for you to pack your crystal or any nice stemware :)
ReplyDeleteGood luck! Annie
My advice would be to start early! Even if it means living out of boxes for a while it makes the actual day/days you move a lot easier. I also think it's important to stay organized and label, label, label :). What has also always made moving easier for me is having lots of help whether it be from friends, family, or movers! They can help take care of kids and dogs (well, family & friends not the movers), and having them around can help you stay sane and makes everything go by a lot quicker (and often times more fun)! Good luck!!
ReplyDeleteMy best advice is to take pictures of what's inside each box you are packing and tape it on the outside so you will know what you have in each box without having to go through it. If you want to keep the same decorations in each room of your new house as they were in your old home, you can also take pictures of each room and pack items by room and area of the room for easy access and redecorating.
ReplyDeleteI like to take pictures of the items I put in each box when packing and tape the picture on the outside of each box so I know what is inside without having to open every box looking for one item.
ReplyDeleteBe sure to write on all 4 sides of the boxes what is inside, that way no matter how they are stacked after moving you can read the contents.
ReplyDeleteI started early collecting boxes from store recycling dumpsters. Most stores have 2, one for trash and one for boxes. Saved us a TON of money.
ReplyDeleteStart packing now. Even if it's just a couple of boxes a night so that your constantly making progress. Also label the boxes really clearly and even put a brief description of what in them so if you're searching for something specific it is easier to find. You can use rolling suitcases for heavy items like books so then you can roll it and it's easier to move. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteMy best tip is to make sure to organize & clean out prior to packing! It will save you a ton of time & no sense in packing up something & taking it to your new house if you don't need it! Good luck :)
ReplyDeleteWhenever we go on a trip, I have to pack for myself and for my 3 kids (my husband only packs for himself). I make a very detailed list for all 3 of my kids and myself, down to the vitamins we'll need while we're away. I would be lost without that list!
ReplyDeletemami2jcn at gmail dot com
Pack a box of things you will need the day of - toilet paper, paper towels, stuff you will need but don't necessarily think about!
ReplyDeleteHow often do we have time to go through closets’, cabinets and drawers to clean them out and get rid of the pile-up? Never! And if we do have the time, it’s not necessarily what we choose to do. My advice would be to start packing early, take your time and do some purging along the way. That way you’re killing two birds with one stone! You will also be at a new home without all the clutter. Making room for new things, of course! :-) Good luck!
ReplyDeleteOh my, we just did this 2 years ago and I'll be honest- I was a little rough. We put alot (most) of our stuff into storage and lived off the basics when we moved from Tyler to Houston to our permanent home. It made it alot easier to unpack & then repack our rental when the time came. It's a crazy time, but how exciting to be building! You can do it!!!
ReplyDeleteI have an almost 5 year old and we are moving soon after her birthday. I ask her how we should pack.....she said bubble wrap. So we are using bubble wrap to wrap the breakable stuff and her toys. I am also color organizing the boxes to the rooms. I am also making it into a game.
ReplyDeleteUse space bags for folded clothes! :)
ReplyDeleteMy tip is to place paper plates between your glass plates so you don't have to wash them all.
ReplyDeleteOh my, we did this when we made the move from Tyler to Houston and I'll be honest- it was rough (but you can do it!). We pretty much put everything except the essentials into storage. This made unpacking and repacking our rental much easier. Then it feels like Christmas when you find all your stuff in your new house! :)
ReplyDeleteMy tip is to pack your plates with styrofoam disposable plates between them. So much easier than wrapping them!
ReplyDeleteMy tip is to pack your plates with styrofoam disposable plates between them. So much easier than wrapping them!
ReplyDeleteMy tip is to try and pack at least three boxes every day. And leave only the stuff you absolutely need out. Otherwise, books and toys not used every day go in a box!
ReplyDeleteAND My other tip is to try and eat up as much of the stuff in your refrigerator as possible. Don't go on big shopping trips. Packing the fridge and cleaning it out is the WORST job in my opinion!
I always clean and organize before I start to pack! Also, try to give anything away that you don't want/need so you're not bringing extra stuff with you! I also survived moving by making lists!! Make a list of things you will need at your rental house and things that can wait until your house. I would also only move a few decorations to your rental since you wont be there too long and you wont have to pack/move them twice! Last things, make detailed lists on each box so you know what is inside!! Hope some of this helps! Happy moving! :)
ReplyDeleteI love those rolls of plastic that looks like Saran Wrap. They work great for local moves if you want to wrap a filled side table or dressers to keep drawers in.
ReplyDeleteOne other tip? Always wrap a mattress! They just get gross in moving vans and storage.
Make sure all your boxes are labeled!! It will make unpacking a lot easier.
ReplyDeleteTip: Hire movers :-) LOL! Also, before moving make sure to declutter EVERYTHING! I made 3 piles before I moved (keep, throw away, donate) and that seemed to help all of us, including my 3 kids. Make sure to keep a few of the kids special toys/blankets/etc out of boxes. Let them keep them in a bag or something so they don't get put off until the last box to be unpacked. Thanks for the giveaway!
ReplyDeleteAs I was reading through the comments I saw someone suggest about taking pics of what's inside the box and taping it to the outside...I will use that if I ever decide to move again. What a great idea!
If you have the time sort and go through everything before you pack it up. It's a great time to clean out and get rid of things you probably won't use. This is much easier than throwing it all in boxes and saying you'll sort it when you get to the new house.
ReplyDeleteEven if you have movers, invite friends and family to help with some of it - especially getting things set up like beds and the things you'll need right away. Someone can make beds while another person can be washing dishes. Also - pack one bag of just the bare necessities - toothbrush toothpaste shampoo deodorant etc for everyone in your family and take it with you to the new place. You'll have it in case night or morning comes and you can't find the box with that stuff! And back to having friends help - order pizzas and take a break together! Great conversation and fun memories!!!
ReplyDeletedoes this mean the house sold?!!
ReplyDeleteas a military family we've moved alot!! my first tip is to relax!! do your best to not stress because one way or another its going to get done and stressing makes it sooo much harder.
label, label, label! be especially sure to label things like sheets, pillows...anything you will need the first night in the new house! it is NOT fun to be searching thru boxes for those things!
don't turn away help! i have a hard time accepting help sometimes but seriously? if friends & family offer to come help pack, let them!!!
i like to have my washer & dryer be the last thing on the truck so that they are the first thing off the truck at the new house! that way i can be washing the sheets, blankets, etc while everything else is being unloaded! (if you're anything like me, there is no way you're sleeping on those sheets after being in a box w/o washing them!)
and then just do atleast a few boxes each day so that it isn't as overwhelming!
and finally, have a bottle of your favorite wine ready for the first night in the new house! there is nothing like finally sitting down after the crazy that will be moving day and enjoying a glass of wine!! (or two!) =)
I would suggest to hire a mover :)
ReplyDeleteHi! I'm Megan Walter! First off, I love your blog! You have the cutest little family!
ReplyDeleteI have a couple moving tips!
1. Break down or disassemble furniture, as many pieces as you can. It will give you way more room in your moving truck!
2. Start packing WAY in advance, a box at a time, and label what’s in it and what room it goes in!
Hope your moves are quick and painless! :)
We just moved this summer. The best tip someone gave me was to use towels (dish towels, hand towels, bath towels) to pack up the breakables. This was easier than using newspaper and didn't turn your fingers black. Once I unpacked, I put all the "used" towels in the wash and didn't have to worry about all the excess newspaper.
ReplyDeleteWe had to move into a rental too before our house was finished. Our rental was furnished so it made it a lot easier. Try not to unpack a ton at your rental, only the necessities so you are not packing a bunch of stuff again. I think starting early is the best advice so you don't get stressed closer to the move. I would go through each room and pack up as much stuff as you can now and don't need in the next couple of weeks. Good luck! I always hated packing and unpacking. I wish I would have hired someone! :)
ReplyDeleteAnnie Cox
Go to the liquor store and get the boxes that have the dividers for wine bottles. They are great for packing many things - glasses, vases, wine! I love them!
ReplyDeleteInstead of automatically packing room by room, I would first pack a few boxes with things you will specifically need in the first couple days - changes of clothes for everyone, towels, some travel sized toiletries, maybe the coffee pot and other kitchen essentials. That way you aren't tearing through 500 boxes to find everything. Also, packing with newspaper is a mess! I would suggest using paper towels or purchasing some plain, white packing paper.
ReplyDeleteMy advice is to move as MANY things at once as you possibly can! The fewer the trips, the happier (and less exhausted) you'll be. :-)
ReplyDeleteMost people pay quite a bit for bubble wrap but it's a great idea to use clean clothes to wrap dished and breakable items. This cuts the cost and hassle of buying newspaper or bubble wrap and works really well.
ReplyDeleteLabel all of your boxes with the room that they belong in. It will save you a lot of time when unpacking!
ReplyDeleteLabel, Label, Label boxes. Be as specific as possible. Also, on the day of the move, people need direction. Don't feel bad that you aren't moving boxes, or unpacking right away. When people are bringing boxes into the house, they need specific directions on where things go, otherwise they'll end up all over. Give people helping you move in a tour of the house so when you say "guest room" they know what you are talking about.
ReplyDeletePurge as you go - less to pack and less to unpack.
ReplyDeleteLabel as much as you can on all sides.
Be in a position inside new house(s) to direct those carrying in items so they go to correct room upon entering the house and don't need to be moved twice.
Assemble beds in rooms first. Then add large furniture before boxes.
Roll your shirts instead of folding them - saves so much room and you don't have to iron as much when you unpack! Good luck!
ReplyDeleteWe are in the exact situation as you. We moved into a condo while our house is now being built. I also have 2 small children. My advice is not going to be on packing....its going to be on Packing for temp housing!!! Let the kids pick favorite toys..get them involved (you cant bring them all). Also pack only the necessities... like 8 plates/ glasses instead of all of them. Only pack the kitchen items you will need, (we all have kitchen gadgets serving trays we dont use). Pack 2 towels per person, instead of taking them all to the temp house etc. You get the picture...itll be that much easier moving out of your temp house if you dont have your whole house in it!! Good luck building make sure to post pics : )
ReplyDeleteMy moving tip: Pay someone to pack, clean, and unpack!
ReplyDelete@PrpattycakesPat
Spend the extra money and hire movers... makes things so much easier! OR... ask Sean to help you and I can guarantee you'll get at least 100 female volunteers!! :)
ReplyDelete-Rachel Tapscott
Pay someone to do everything !
ReplyDelete@PrpattycakesPat
My advice would definitely be to hire movers! And have the move organized as much as possible so that moving is as stress-free as possible!
ReplyDeleteTake deep breaths and don't get too stressed.
ReplyDeletePerhaps having papa and lovie entertain the kiddos on moving day might help, as well.
:)
Hi Shay!
ReplyDeleteLove both of your blogs! We moved when my daughter was 18 months and then just did a kitchen renovation in October 2012, so had to pack the entire kitchen over again. Best suggestion is to pack things a like and label EVERYTHING!! I am huge with Excel Spreadsheets. Use that to keep track of what is in each box and how many you have. Hope that helps!
Would LOVE to use the Target Gift Cards for new accessories for my new kitchen! Thank you! :-)
Mindy Tierney
When packing dishes or more fragile items, put a beach towel or bathroom towel/rugs in the bottom of the box for extra support and protection.
ReplyDeleteMy advice would be to use more of the small/medium sized boxes. Those large moving boxes get way too heavy otherwise. All I ever put in those are pillows!
ReplyDeleteWhen packing dishes or more fragile items, put a beach towel or bathroom towel/rugs in the bottom of the box for extra support and protection.
ReplyDeleteLabel boxes! I prefer room by room so once you get to the house the moving guys can take the boxes to each room. Sell/donate anything you haven't used in 6 months. And most importantly pack a few boxes with the necessities that you can access easily, nothing worse than getting to your new home to need something all the way in the back of the moving truck--- so put bathroom stuff, blankets, clothes for a a few days, games/snacks for the kids in a few boxes to last you for the first few days.
ReplyDeleteMy tip is to put paper plates in between your regular plates when packing them. It protects them from breaking and when you unpack you can still use the paper plates. I feel for ya though! We sold our house in Sept and the 3 of us moved into a one bedroom apartment (with our stuff in storage) while we are building our house. The walls keep getting smaller and smaller!! Thank goodness we are down to the final month!
ReplyDeleteMy advice would be to have a donate box next to the box you're packing at all times. If you haven't used the item in a year, donate it. I also make a list of what is in each box and tape it to the outside. Best of luck with the moves!
ReplyDeleteThe best advice I have for you is to color code each room. That way when you are unpacking you will know where each box goes and you can get everything done quicker.
ReplyDelete-Kimberly
Pack by each room. Have specific tubs/boxes for "living room," "kitchen," etc and have them each labeled. Makes it so much easier to put boxes in the new room!
ReplyDeleteEww Moving is awful and a pain. Being someone that moves a lot my best tip to you would be don't overwhelm yourself with the whole house at once. Pack one room at a time. Don't stress yourself out with the whole house... baby steps. It also helps with the organization of the unpack.
ReplyDeleteMy best advice is to get free boxes from work, and start saving newspaper. You will need alot of both. :)
ReplyDeleteKristen
Kristen_bartek@yahoo.com
I always wrapped my corning ware and breakable kitchen items in my kitchen dish towels.
ReplyDeleteWhen packing, clean as you go! I know you'll have to clean your old joint once all the big stuff is out, but it makes it a lot easier if you clean out whatever you pack up. I know you'll think "whoa! we are filthy people (you're totally not)" but it helps make it less overwhelming in the end. Happy packing!
ReplyDeleteMy advice would be to hire movers. You will never regret that money spent and you won't be exhausted waiting at 3am for the boys to pull up with the second to last truck load! Meranda
ReplyDeleteMy advice would be to only focus on one room at a time. Don't overwhelm yourself with the whole house. One room is a lot more manageable and makes the organization for unpacking a lot easier. Also, use BOXES! People that pack in bags almost always regret it. And same size boxes make for packing a moving truck almost fun.
ReplyDeleteLabel two boxes each time you start in a room: keep, donate/garage sale. Sort and get rid of anything you don't want to find a new home for. Take a garbage bag in and try to really get rid of some stuff. Consider what you will use often and need in the rent house. Label those with red stickers and write rent house.
ReplyDeleteWe moved into a rental property this year while building a house as well. Best tips include:
ReplyDelete1. Have an OPEN FIRST box with each move, this includes the essentials such as toliet paper, papertowels, trash bags, toothbrush, etc. that you don't want to go digging for when you need!
2. If you are putting things in a storage unit, be sure that anything you put in is items that will not retain odor. we had a climate controlled storage unit with many of our things in it for 6 months and all blankets, clothing, etc had to be washed twice.
3. Declutter and organize BEORE you pack. Donate or get rid of old toys, clothes, etc that you know will not be used again- this way you don't move things you will end up getting rid of in a few months anyway!
Sarah Henke
sarahjhenke@gmail.com
Color code each room that you are packing up and then in the new house put a sheet of paper with the color of the room on each door so everyone helping knows the box with pink on it goes in the room with the pink on the door.
ReplyDeleteStart packing each room early, the stuff you can pack the earliest is also the stuff you can unpack last. So things you don't use a lot can be packed now and then unpacked last. The most important things are packed last and unpacked first.
As I packed I tried to not only color code the boxes according to room but I kept a notebook where I numbered each box and wrote a brief description of what was inside. My two kids are 15 months apart and it took awhile to unpack. This helped a ton when I really needed to find something that I hadn't unpacked yet. Good luck with the move!
ReplyDeleteDesignate 1 day to pack each room, so packing is not too overwhelming....8 rooms=8 days. Also, getting rid of all of the "junk" this first move, will help when you move again into your new home.
ReplyDeleteAvoid mixing items from different rooms in the same box. It will make your packing quicker and your unpacking a lot easier, too. And don't forget to label each box with the room it's destined for along with a description with its contents. Being organized makes moving a little less chaotic!
ReplyDeleteGood luck - love your blog!
My best advice is to use as many plastic storage containers as possible instead of cardboard or other types. You can always reuse the plastic boxes for storage later on but using them while moving helps reduce the chances of something happening to your things and its just easier in my opinion.
ReplyDeleteTaylor M.
Make sure you have a box with the things you will need the first night (toiletries, towels, pj's, etc). Have that box separate from the rest so you know exactly where it is.
ReplyDelete-Becky W.
Roll clothes! It keeps your clothes from getting wrinkled and makes each item of clothing easier to see since they're lined up. Also, keep your clothes that are on hangers on the hangers and move them that way! It saves so much time!
ReplyDeletePURGE! My best tip is get rid of the stuff you no longer use NOW. Don't pack and move that stuff.
ReplyDeleteI'm excited about seeing the new house. How fun!!
Thanks for offering such a fun give away
Renn McMurray
Use whatcha got! Use towels to pack breakables - keep the silverware in the tray, etc. And ask all your friends/neighbors with infants for their diaper boxes!
ReplyDelete"AshLee" from The Bachelor may be able to help since she is an "organizer". Perhaps she has a blog full of ideas. R
ReplyDeleteI wish I could move our kitchen outlets to underneath the cabinet, that way our back splash on the wall would not be interrupted by an electrical outlet plate!
ReplyDeleteAmanda
Instead of newspaper to wrap breakables in, contact your local newspaper and buy the ends of the rolls they don't use. Then you don't have to worry about the print getting on everything!
ReplyDeleteRoll your clothes instead of laying them flat! It keeps the wrinkles out and also helps you see what's there since it's lined up. Also, keep all of your clothes that are already on hangers on their hangers - it saves so much time when unpacking!
ReplyDeleteAs someone who has moved to 7 states in 9 years courtesy of good ole State Farm, my best advice would be to start packing up the things that are not going to the rental house with you. I would assume that lots of your stuff is going in storage. I would pack up that stuff now and go ahead move that into storage. That way only the stuff you will need/use will go to the rental house. Nothing worse than having a whole room full of boxes that you won't be unpacking until you are in the permanent house. Good luck with the move. What an exciting adventure!
ReplyDeleteHi Shay!
ReplyDeleteMy best tip would be to fill your kitchen/rooms with COLOR on the walls! Bright, colorful colors can really make a difference. Also, getting colorful decorations&appliances to match the walls looks very sophisticated and cute. Happy Designing!
xx
Emma LeMay
Label, label, label!! And use this opportunity to get rid of stuff. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteLisa O'Brien
ReplyDeleteHave a packing party! Invite some girlfriends over for some food, wine, and packing. go room by room together and time will fly! Of course, there will be rooms that you want to do on your own, but toys, kids' rooms, etc. can be packed by anyone!!!
Enjoy building your dream home. We just built this fall and it was the best experience ever!
Put a paper or styrofoam plate between your dishes. Then you don't have to wrap them all with newspaper and it keeps them clean!
ReplyDelete-Katie Elliott
By best advice I can give just recently going through it. PACK everything. We had movers, but if everything had been in a box it would have gone much faster. ie: pictures, mirrors, pillows, lamps. Also, when labeling boxes make sure to label ALL sides. (Top and all sides) And designate which room. I was pregnant in my last move so I stood at the front door as the movers came in and if a box didn't have a label on it or room, I opened it right there and was able to tell the movers which room it needed to go to. Trust me, I was in no shape to move boxes!
ReplyDeleteMy advice is to clean out every room and get rid of what you don't need and then start packing the things you don't use on a daily basis and be sure to label each box with the name of the room. Happy packing, how exciting!
ReplyDeleteGet boxes from grocery stores instead of buying them! Good luck :)
ReplyDelete1. Purge
ReplyDelete2. Organize
3. One room at a time, starting with the least used.
4. Call friends for backup and/or Starbucks ;)
Get boxes from grocery stores instead of buying them! Good luck!
ReplyDeleteAshley
Get movers! It's the best money spent! :) As far as packing, good labeling will go a long way to make sure you can find everything when you get to your new home.
ReplyDeleteMake sure you label all of your boxes with what's inside and which room it belongs to....Good Luck with the moving!!
ReplyDeleteMy packing tip would be to get rid of old stuff you dont use before packing it all up.
ReplyDeleteOne tip that I used when we moved was to go to your local newspaper and ask for 'end rolls'. They are basically newsprint without the printing, it's the leftover. You can use it to pack up your dishes and breakable stuff. And it's usually free or super cheap, without turning your fingers black!
ReplyDeleteGood luck.
Pack up the small things first and also the things that don't get used often. Also, DON"T be afraid to ask for help and NEVER turn down help.
ReplyDeleteWe've moved 4 times in 3 years so I feel your pain. My suggestion is to get detailed with your labels.
ReplyDeleteMake sure to say "kitchen utensils"
Also, take it slow! It's not a marathon. Enjoy some wine, pizza and good music.
Best of luck
Transport your closet yourself... leave all the clothes on the hanger and hang them straight up when you get to your new house... Helps cut down on useless folding and extra boxes! Good Luck... moving is NEVER fun!
ReplyDeleteDeclutter and organize before you move. Throw away, give to good will, give to friends all the things you don't want or need anymore. We've moved 5 times and this is the best advice I received. It's pointless to pack up a bunch of stuff you know you won't use or need at your new house!:)
ReplyDeleteI would def want a TV in my bathroom for nice relaxing bath and good TV watching.
ReplyDeleteKitchen...hideaway garbage can.
Kristin Meeks
Simple tip is to tag your furniture/boxes with what room they are going to in the rental/new house! Love your blog! Read and follow daily from Mississippi! -Sarah (sarahrchandler@gmail.com)
ReplyDeleteAfter moving back and forth from home to college MANY times in the past 4 years, my best packing tip is to use the space in your boxes and containers as wisely as possible!! Treat it like a puzzle and see how much you can fit in one box!
ReplyDelete-Karen P.
I moved last May and I found that it seemed easier and less overwhelming to unload all of the labeled boxes in the garage (or a spare room) and then bring them in one at a time and unpack them and put things where they belong. This way, I could easily do one room at a time and without having all of the boxes I hadn't unpacked yet in the way. Good luck with your move!
ReplyDeleteCandace Thompson
I have only moved twice in 35 years of marriage-the last almost 20 years ago. So I have no good hints, but I do love Target!!
ReplyDeleteHi there! I just happened upon your blog from Pinterest Told Me To and I have to say...LOVE IT! :-) We just moved and I had to pack and am still working on unpacking... We have a 7 month old, so needless to say, it was/is a challenge. I would tell you to write everything on the box and note which room it belongs in. Then you won't have a room full of unpacked boxes in the basement waiting to be gone through like me...haha! :-) Good luck with the moves!
ReplyDeleteLabel EVERY box with every detail of its components! It may seem obvious, but when moving gets hectic it is easy to just throw things wherever; when you are in dire need of that one thing that could be in 1 of 100 boxes you will be so glad you did!
ReplyDeleteAlways pack by room and label, label, label! When we moved i always unpacked my kids room it helped make the different place feel a little more comfortable for them! Knowing they would still have there own comfy nook!
ReplyDeleteGood luck and God Bless!
Jessica Loftin
Pack stuff that you wont need for a while in seperate boxes and dont unload those until you are in your new house. That way you don't have to move everything twice!
ReplyDeleteJessica
jcamichelle@hotmail.com
Use a different color/design duct tape on boxes for each room. :)
ReplyDeleteCristal Goings
Get your kitchen setup first so you can still cook. Or even better have people bring you meals!
ReplyDeleteKaren
spilk10 at yahoo cot com
I would suggest hands-free gadgets for the kitchen faucet and and pull out cabinet for the kitchen trashcan!
ReplyDeleteSince you will be moving more than once, I would suggest packing all the 'out of season' clothes separate and putting them in storage. Less to keep in the rental!-Claire Hood
ReplyDeleteDeborah Rapose- Get lots of help from friends and family pizza and cold drinks help.... Also keep an organizing moving binder to keep track of where things are going so you know what is where if you need it
ReplyDeleteWe moved a lot when my kids were little and to make them feel comfortable and excited about the move I let them put stickers on the moving boxes from their room. They loved it
ReplyDeletePlan what holidays you will live in the rental house for and keep those decorations out! It will make living in the rental more like a home as you transition! :)
ReplyDeleteLabel everything. Pack one room at a time. Have someone watch the kids the day of the move. Start packing now. Good luck. I hate moving but fun adventures ahead with a new house. Heather Miller
ReplyDeleteThe U-HAUL store is your friend! U-HAUL makes the BEST boxes for moving! Yes, they do charge you for them, but they aren't THAT expensive and it's so worth it because the boxes are sturdy and come in a variety of sizes. Since you are moving twice, the boxes will hold up well and you'll be able to use them for both moves. U-HAUL also sells fantastic moving supplies like bubble wrap, plain newspaper, packing tape, "dish packing" foam, etc.
ReplyDeleteI would just say to label each box and pack them together. That way all the "Kitchen - Cupboard" boxes are together and the "Kitchen - Pantry" boxes are put in the right place from the very beginning. And when you label the boxes...label the tops and 3 of the 4 sides. It seems VERY time consuming..but so worth it! That way it can be seem easily and quickly. You dont have to worry about someone tipping your box of fridge food on its side to see whats in there.
ReplyDeleteOh and Lots of Light Boxes are better the Less Heavy Boxes.
Good Luck! Happy Moving!
My tip for you would be to call local grocery stores to find out what day their trucks come. Those days, they usually have alot of boxes and most of them have no problem saving them for you! If you are packing everything yourself, that is! ;) Good luck! by they way...LOVE both of your blogs! I'm a new reader. --Abby McAlpine
ReplyDeleteWe just built a house during the fall. During the build we put everything possible into a storage unit except for the essentials that we needed while staying at my husband's parents' house. A couple tips to share...
ReplyDeleteTake your time while packing if possible. Pack up a couple boxes each chance you get. Don't try to do it all at once otherwise you get frustrated and then just start throwing things in boxes just to get it done. As you pack (if you're a perfectionist like me) write on the box what's inside of it. (i.e. glass mixing bowls, glass glasses, etc) This helped me TERMENDOUSLY with being able to actually find what I needed instead of having to dig through each box.
Also, some how label every box according to what room it goes in.(writing it on the box, color coding by putting different color duct tape, etc) That way if you have family/friends helping with the moving in, they know where to put the box.
Finally, on move in day, YOU direct traffic! Let everyone else bring the items in, you just tell them which room is which. :) Definitely helps cut down on confusion!
Happy Packing/Moving!!
Kayli Burkhart
Pack your sheets at the top of a box labeled "linens" so you can make your beds for your first night, and not searching endlessly through boxes at 1:30am. :)
ReplyDeleteVacuum bags! They are great at making linens, coats, comforters, and pillows shrink to a more manageable size. Then label and pack each bag, that way you can reinflate as needed when unpacking. And always set your bedroom up first, that way one space (the most important space) is done!!! Happy Moving!!!
ReplyDeleteWe just recently moved and I didn't label enough! I was constantly looking for stuff! So my advice would to obviously over label everything! :-)
ReplyDeleteMy best advice...hire movers! Haha. Even when I was in law school I hired people to move my stuff from my different apartments and it was the best money I have EVER spent!
ReplyDeleteMy suggestion would be to purge all that you can beforehand. We didn't have time to do that before our last move so everything came with us.
ReplyDeleteVacuum Bags!!! These things are amazing for linens, jackets, comforters, pillows, and bulky clothing items. They shrink the size so that these items are manageable!! Put like items in a back, suction out all the air, label and stack you are ready to go!!! We move multiple times a year and these bags are a lifesaver for us!!! Happy Moving
ReplyDeleteI would suggest purging all that you can before you move. We didn't have time to do that the last time we moved so it all came with us.
ReplyDeleteWhen packing dishes, buy some cheap styrofoam plates and put them inbetween the plates instead of wrapping each one.
ReplyDeleteHope that is a good tip!!
Carrie Darney
My suggestion for packing is to wrap your plates in your towels. And wrap your glasses in handtowels - so on and so on. That way you pack 2 rooms at once!
ReplyDeletePaula F. - North Carolina
Organize, organize, organize! Number the boxes and then write down in a notebook what is in each box. ex-
ReplyDeleteBox 1- cleaning supplies
I hope everything goes smoothly for you and your family! :)
-Sarah
2 tips:
ReplyDelete1. for hanging clothes, I lay out a big sheet, lay the hanging clothes on it, and wrap the sheet up...easier to carry out.
2. put a styrofoam plate inbetween each plate instead of wrapping them individually
Carrie Darney
Organization is key in moving! Pack boxes meaningfully and label the boxes for their destination room and with a general list of the items inside...but most importantly, create "Open Me First" boxes. These boxes will likely be the last boxes that you pack in each room, as they are full of the items that you use most regularly. It will be really helpful when the unpacking feels overwhelming to know which boxes contain the necessities...like the bundt cake pans!
ReplyDeleteHappy Packing :)
Rebecca from Baltimore
Don't let your husband carry the box with the wine glasses in them...they will end up broke!! Just speaking from experience!!
ReplyDeleteI would say label everything neatly as you go. Take your time and space out the process of packing. Nothing worse than having to pack a family and a home within a few days. Don't stress and try and enjoy the process..
ReplyDeleteMelissa Lewis at MLewis2185@hotmail.com
I was going to say pack by room and label, label, label, but obviously many have beaten me to those tips. So instead, I will just add this link to pinterest which has a ton of awesome ideas!
ReplyDeletehttp://pinterest.com/chicoulino/moving-tips/
I have a couple of tips- In order to avoid being overwhelmed, pack a little every day. Also, in the kitchen, putting paper towels between dishes works great. Lastly, craigslist will have free boxes many times under the "Free Stuff" category.
ReplyDeleteI am not the best with planning ahead or being the most organized, so I suggest:
ReplyDelete1. stock up now on free boxes (every time you go to the grocery store or liqeur store, ask for a few boxes)
2. assign yourself a room a day to pack. i suggest color coding the boxes - you can have your adorable kiddos help out with the color coding!
3. AS you pack, keep a box for GoodWill and a trash bag handy... perfect time to purge and pitch while packing!
4. pray for peace of mind and patience... this is usually my #1 :)
Best of luck!
Bekah
My packing tip for moving would be... If you have small boxes pack them in larger boxes. This will lessen the number of boxes you have. Don't forget to label contains of each box! Hope your move goes well! Love your blog!
ReplyDeleteI am not the best with planning ahead or being the most organized, so I suggest:
ReplyDelete1. stock up now on free boxes (every time you go to the grocery store or liqeur store, ask for a few boxes)
2. assign yourself a room a day to pack. i suggest color coding the boxes - you can have your adorable kiddos do this!
3. AS you pack, keep a box for GoodWill and a trash bag handy... perfect time to purge and pitch while packing!
4. pray for peace of mind and patience... this is usually my #1
Best of luck!
Bekah
We have moved several times in our young married life and the best thing we did was hire a company - they came and packed it for me in a day!!! I didn't have to do a thing!!!
ReplyDeleteBut of course, I know that isn't practical for everyone (the church that my husband was pastoring paid for it). but I try to pack by room instead of my "type" - meaning instead of all frames in one box, I pack all that room in those boxes and label the room with the items in it. Helpful when trying to set up the new house!
Happy Packing!
Molly Spivey
My best tip is wardrobe boxes. That way it's easy to move and you don't have to worry about all your hanging clothes getting wrinkled.
ReplyDeleteAbbie
Keep your clothes on the hangers!! I did this when I moved and had my closet set up in no time!
ReplyDeleteI numbered all of my boxes (as well as labeled them) and then I made an excel spreadsheet with the numbers and what was in the box. That way when I was looking for something specific I was able to find it. We did a temporary move too and it was a lifesaver to be able to find a specfic movie, vase, etc.
ReplyDeleteMy tip would be if you, your husband, or kids haven't wore, seen or used something in over 6months then donate it to someone who could get use out of it. Not only are you making your move easier but your also helping someone else gain something they might not have been able to get before! Best of luck!
ReplyDeleteI numbered all of my boxes (as well as labeled them) and then I made an excel spreadsheet with the numbers and what was in the box. That way when I was looking for something specific I was able to find it. We did a temporary move too and it was a lifesaver to be able to find a specfic movie, vase, etc.
ReplyDeleteMy best advice would be to use items you already have to wrap upnbreakables. I love using all my bath and kitchen towels to wrap up things like glasses, picture frames, etc.
ReplyDeleteAbbie
I definitely think labeling is key. I would try to put away stuff that you don't use as frequently in boxes that won't even have to be opened at the rental house so you can keep it less cluttered.
ReplyDeleteAlso, I recommend putting your very delicate necklaces that tangle easily inside of a straw and then clasp the necklace with the straw on it. It seriously saves on the nightmare of trying to untangle those if your jewelry box gets dumped upside down while moving :)
My tip is to get lots of friends/family to help! Even if you have movers, you can have your friends and family stay to help start unpacking. Then treat them with a homemade dinner and drinks in your new place!
ReplyDeleteJenny Fuller
http://livingourfullerlife.blogspot.com/
My tip is if you, your husband, or kids haven't wore, used or seen something in over 6 months then donate it. Not only are you helping your move to be easier but knowing that you are giving it to someone who might not have been able to afford that before. Have fun packing/moving!
ReplyDeleteWe just moved a month ago, so this is all still fresh in my mind! LABEL, LABEL, LABEL! I wrote a general idea of the items inside of the box as well as what room they went to, that way I knew which boxes I needed to unpack first. I also love the idea of color coordinating each room. Good luck with the moves!
ReplyDeleteSara
(I apologize if this comment posts multiple times I was having problems getting it to post!)
My best tip would be to go through all of your belongings as you pack and get rid of it them/donate them. I've made the mistake so many times of packing unwanted things/clothes and it was so much more unnecessary work!
ReplyDeleteLaura C.
I numbered all of my boxes (as well as labeled them). Then I had an excel spreadsheet that coordinated with that box that told me exactly what was in it. That way if I was looking for something specific I was able to find it. We too did a temporary move and this was a lifesaver.
ReplyDeleteFirst of all, congrats on the new home. Moving is exciting! My best advice would be to start NOW -- however, based on what I read about you and your type A personality, you probably started way before now!! As you begin to pack, go room by room, and once each room is packed up, proceed to clean that room (unless you've hired someone to come in and clean the entire house for you once you're out). This way, everything in that room is complete and you don't have to go back. Also, have an organizational pattern and label the heck out of everything. Don't put K's toys in with S's things, etc. It might take more time now to be so precise, but it will save so much more time when you begin to unpack it all! Oh yeah -- and if at all possible, get a sitter to watch the kids so you and your hubby and all your wonderful helpers can just get down to business without the cute little interruptions of the kiddos! :)
ReplyDeleteWhen I moved I went to grocery stores and others to see if they had any extra boxes they were going to through away...Petsmart had the best ones! They fold out where you don't have to use any tape on them (but of course you can to help secure them more) and the best part of them was they had inserts for handles, which made it a lot easier to carry. I would definitely recommend writing on the outside of each box what is inside or which room it goes in. It makes the moving process go much smoother! Best of luck to you guys with the move coming up!! I know you guys will have plenty of help from all your family & friends! :-)
ReplyDeleteMy tip would be if you, your husband or kids haven't wore, used or seen something in over 6months then donate it. Not only are you making your packing easier but knowing that its going to someone that might not have been able to afford it before.Have fun!
ReplyDeleteCasey S.
Whatever you don't get done before you move in will never get done! ;) At least that is what I have found. Your house will be beautiful!!
ReplyDeleteApril W.
my advise is to pack the moving truck with the kitchen stuff last, so you will be able to get to it first.
ReplyDeleteMy advise would be to pack the kitchen stuff last in the moving truck so you would be able to get it out first at the new home.
ReplyDeleteBest packing advise.....HIRE MOVERS!!!! :)
ReplyDeleteGet your kids to help you pack up the boxes. Give them little 'prizes' or priviledges for fastest packed box, or best packed. Or most stuff in it. Obviously give them things to pack that you're not concerned about being packed well, or breakable.
ReplyDeleteMichelle Smid
When I moved I went to grocery stores and others to see if they had any extra boxes they were going to through away...Petsmart had the best ones! They fold out where you don't have to use any tape on them (but of course you can to help secure them more) and the best part of them was they had inserts for handles, which made it a lot easier to carry. I would definitely recommend writing on the outside of each box what is inside or which room it goes in. It makes the moving process go much smoother! Best of luck to you guys with the move coming up!! I know you guys will have plenty of help from all your family & friends! :-) - Kara
ReplyDeleteLabel everything really well and pack all the like stuff together. We moved about 10 miles a few years ago and were able to settle everything in quickly because we had all of one room's items in these boxes, etc. Use laundry baskets and everything! :)
ReplyDeleteMy tip would be if you, your husband or kids haven't wore, used or seen something in over 6months then donate it. Not only are you making your packing easier but knowing that its going to someone that might not have been able to afford it before.Have fun!
ReplyDeleteCasey S
Put a st of sheets and towels for each bed and family member in your washer and dryer...that way you know where they are and aren't trying to open boxes when you want to go to bed! Plus a spare change of clothes!
ReplyDelete