Easy, Essential and Clever Moving Hacks

Moving can be a hectic experience, but it doesn’t have to be. With a little bit of planning and organization, you can make the process a lot smoother. To help you out, we’ve put together a list of moving hacks that will save you time, money, and energy. From labeling your boxes to utilizing old newspapers to protect your dishes, these tips will help you make the most of your move.”

Start planning and organizing your move as early as possible:

Starting the planning and organization process as early as possible can make a big difference when it comes to moving. The earlier you start, the more time you have to sort through your belongings, declutter, and get organized. Here are some moving hacks to consider when starting the planning and organization process:

• Make a list of the things you need to do before the move, such as canceling utilities, updating your mailing address, and arranging for transportation.
• Sort through your belongings and decide what to keep, what to sell, and what to give away. This will not only help lighten the load on moving day, but it can also help you earn some extra money or declutter your home.
• Create a floor plan of your new home and decide where each piece of furniture will go. This will help you determine what items you need to keep and what can be discarded or sold.
• Research different moving companies, and compare services and prices. Be sure to read reviews and ask for referrals from friends or family.
• Pack a little bit each day, instead of trying to do it all in one go, this will make it less overwhelming.
• Make arrangements for your pets or plants during the move.

By starting the planning and organization process early, you can be better prepared for moving day and reduce the stress that often comes with the process.

Create a checklist of tasks to help you stay organized and on track:

Creating a checklist of tasks to help you stay organized and on track is a great way to ensure that you don’t forget any important steps during the moving process. A checklist can help you keep track of things that need to be done, such as:

• Notifying important parties of your change of address (e.g., utility companies, banks, magazine subscriptions, etc.)
• Sorting and purging your possessions (e.g., items to keep, items to sell, items to donate)
• Packing and labeling boxes by room and contents.
• Arranging for transportation (e.g., hiring a moving company, renting a truck, etc.)
• Changing your address with the post office.
• Cleaning your current residence before you leave.
• Making arrangements for your pets or plants during the move.

and so on…

Here are some tips to make the most of your checklists:

• Break down your checklist into smaller, manageable tasks.
• Assign a deadline for each task.
• Prioritize the items on your list and tackle the most important tasks first.
• Cross off items as you complete them so you can see your progress.
• Keep your checklist in a visible place, like on a bulletin board or the refrigerator, so you can refer to it often.
• Be ready to adapt your list as unexpected things arise, it will be helpful.

A checklist can help you stay organized and focused on the task at hand, it will help you move through the process in an efficient and stress-free way.

Use labels, markers, and tape to clearly label boxes by room and contents:

Using labels, markers, and tape to clearly label boxes by room and contents can be a effective moving hacks to stay organized when moving. Here are some benefits of using labels:

• Labels can help you identify the contents of each box at a glance, which makes it easier to unpack and put things away in your new home.
• Labels can also help movers identify which boxes go in which room, which can save time on moving day.
• Labels on boxes can also serve as a reminder of things that need to be unpacked first in the new home, such as essential kitchen items or clothes for the next day.
• By labeling each box with their contents, you can also save time by not having to open the box to figure out where it should be placed.

Here are some tips on how to effectively label boxes:

• Use different colored labels or markers to differentiate between rooms. For example, use blue labels for the kitchen, red labels for the living room, etc.
• Write clearly and legibly on the labels, you should use a bold, permanent marker.
• Be specific when labeling the contents of a box, instead of writing “kitchen stuff”, write “Kitchen – Plates, cups, and utensils”
• Make sure the labels are on the side of the box, not the top, this will allow you to easily read the label even when the box is stacked.
• If you have fragile items, put “Fragile” or “Handle with Care” written in big letters on multiple sides of the box.

By using labels, markers, and tape to clearly label your boxes, you can save time and reduce stress during the moving process by making it easy to find and put away your belongings in your new home.

Use packing paper, bubble wrap, and packing peanuts to protect fragile items:

Using packing paper, bubble wrap, and packing peanuts to protect fragile items is a key part of the moving process. These materials can help keep your fragile items safe during transport and help prevent them from breaking or getting damaged.

Packing paper is great for wrapping dishes, glasses, and other fragile items. You can also use it to fill empty spaces in boxes, which can help prevent items from shifting during transport.

Bubble wrap is perfect for protecting fragile items such as vases, figurines, and other fragile items. The bubbles help cushion the items and absorb shock. You can use it by wrapping the item securely with bubble wrap, making sure that the entire item is covered and protected.

Packing peanuts are small Styrofoam beads that can be used to fill the empty spaces in boxes to keep items from shifting around during transport. The peanuts can also be used to cushion fragile items and keep them from breaking.

When packing fragile item, some additional moving hacks are:

• Make sure to use enough packing materials to fully cushion and protect the items.
• Use packing tape to secure the packing materials to the items, to prevent them from unraveling during transport.
• Put fragile items in small boxes to reduce the amount of weight in each box and prevent the box from breaking.
• It’s also a good idea to use two or more layers of protection for extra fragility, wrapping the item in paper, then bubble wrap, then peanuts.
• When labeling boxes with fragile items, make sure to label the box “FRAGILE” and indicate the items it contain on top of the box.
• Make sure to keep fragile items near the top of the moving truck, so they’re less likely to get crushed or damaged.

By properly protecting your fragile items with packing paper, bubble wrap, and packing peanuts, you can help ensure that they arrive at your new home in the same condition as when you packed them.

Take photos of electronic wiring configurations before disconnecting them, so you can remember how to set them up in your new home:

Taking photos of electronic wiring configurations before disconnecting them can be a helpful way to remember how to set them up in your new home and one of our favorite moving hacks. When you disassemble electronic equipment, the wiring can become complex and it can be difficult to remember how to set it up correctly. By taking photos of the wiring configurations, you’ll have a reference to refer to when it comes time to set up your electronics in your new home. Here are some moving hacks to keep in mind when taking photos of electronic wiring configurations:

• Take close-up photos of the connections, so you can see the details clearly.
• Label the photos with the name of the electronic device and the room it’s from, so you know which device the photo is for.
• Take photos from different angles to show different aspects of the wiring.
• Try to capture the overall setup of the device including where the cables plug into on the back of the device.
• If you can, take photos of the device with the wiring connected so you can remember which cables plug into which port.

By taking photos of electronic wiring configurations, you can ensure that you’ll be able to set up your electronics correctly in your new home and avoid potential frustration and confusion when trying to reconnect the equipment. It is a good practice that will save you time and effort.

Make use of suitcases and other large bags to pack clothes and linens:

Making use of suitcases and other large bags to pack clothes and linens can be a great way to save space when moving. Suitcases and bags are one of the underutilized moving hacks during a move, but they can be a great way to pack clothes, linens, and other lightweight items. Here are some benefits of using suitcases and bags to pack clothes and linens:

• By packing clothes in suitcases and bags, you can keep them wrinkle-free, compared to packing them in boxes.
• You can also utilize the space inside the suitcases, such as in the pockets, to pack small items like shoes, underwear or socks.
• Suitcases and bags can be used as moving containers, you can pack them with clothes and linens, then close the lid and transport them directly to your new home.
• They are very portable, they have wheels and they have handles, they will be easy to move.

When using suitcases and bags to pack clothes and linens:

• Make sure that the bags and suitcases are clean and in good condition before packing them.
• Pack heavier items like shoes and boots in the bottom of the suitcase or bag.
• Use packing cubes or compression bags to maximize space and keep items organized.
• Keep in mind that suitcases and bags can be quite heavy when they are full, be careful when lifting them.

By making use of suitcases and bags to pack clothes and linens, you can save space and keep your belongings organized and wrinkle-free during the moving process. It’s a good way to make use of what you already have and can help make the move a little bit easier.

Utilize small boxes for heavy items like books and tools, and large boxes for lighter items:

Utilizing small boxes for heavy items like books and tools, and large boxes for lighter items, can be an effective way to stay organized and make the moving process more efficient. Here are some benefits of using small boxes for heavy items:

• Small boxes are easier to handle and less likely to strain your back, especially when they are full.
• Heavy items are less likely to damage small boxes than large ones, as the weight is distributed over a smaller surface area.
• Smaller boxes take up less space on a moving truck, which allows you to fit more items into the truck and also make it easier to pack items securely.

With smaller boxes for heavy items, you can stack them more efficiently and make more use of space. When using small boxes for heavy items:

• Make sure to reinforce the bottom of the box with packing tape to support the weight of the items inside.
• Pack books tightly in small boxes to prevent them from getting damaged in transport.
• Keep in mind that small boxes can get quite heavy when they are full, so be careful when lifting them.

On the other hand, using large boxes for lighter items, such as clothes, linens and pillows, can help you save space and make packing easier. When using large boxes for light items keep in mind:

• Lighter items won’t weigh down the box and are less likely to cause the box to break during transport.
• Large boxes allow you to pack more items, helping you save space and money on boxes.
• They can be useful for packing bulky items, like pillows and comforters, that can take up a lot of room in smaller boxes.

By using small boxes for heavy items and large boxes for lighter items, you can make the moving process more efficient and reduce the risk of damage to your belongings. It will help you pack smarter and not harder.

Make sure to empty, defrost and clean your refrigerator and freezer at least 24 hours before moving day:

Making sure to empty, defrost, and clean your refrigerator and freezer at least 24 hours before moving day is important for a few reasons. Here are some benefits of doing this:

• Cleaning your refrigerator and freezer before moving day allows you to start fresh in your new home without any lingering food odors or spills.
• Emptying and defrosting the freezer will make it lighter to move, and also ensure that the appliance is ready to be plugged in and used immediately after being moved to the new location.
• Removing the food items from the refrigerator and freezer will also help prevent them from spoiling during transport, which can be a health hazard and can cause unpleasant odors.
• Empty and cleaned appliances will be also easier to clean after the move and to check for any possible damages during transportation.

Here are some tips to help you with the process:

• Empty the refrigerator and freezer at least 24 hours before moving day to give them enough time to defrost.
• Remove all food items and dispose of them, or donate them to a local food bank if they are still edible.
• Unplug the refrigerator and freezer and remove any shelving or drawers for easier transport.
• Clean the interior and exterior of the appliances with warm water and soap or an all-purpose cleaner.
• Once cleaned, dry both appliances thoroughly to prevent mold or mildew from forming during transport.
• Use packing materials such as blankets or furniture pads to wrap and protect the appliances during transport.

By emptying, defrosting, and cleaning your refrigerator and freezer before moving day, you can ensure that your appliances are in good condition and ready to use in your new home, and also help prevent any unwanted surprises during the move.

Use old newspapers or packing paper as padding for dishes and glasses:

Using old newspapers or packing paper as padding for dishes and glasses can be a cost-effective and eco-friendly way to protect them during transport. Here are some benefits of using newspapers or packing paper to protect dishes and glasses:

• Newspapers and packing papers are readily available, so you don’t need to purchase any special materials.
• They are also lightweight and easy to handle, which makes them an ideal option for packing delicate items.
• When using newspapers or packing papers as padding, you can use multiple layers to provide additional protection, which can help prevent dishes and glasses from breaking during transport.
• It’s a cost-effective solution, as newspapers and packing papers are relatively inexpensive, if not free.

Here are some tips to help you use newspapers and packing papers to protect dishes and glasses:

• Clean dishes and glasses thoroughly before packing them to ensure that they’re free from any food particles or residue.
• Wrap each dish or glass individually with newspaper or packing paper, making sure to cover the entire surface of the item.
• Add extra layers of newspaper or packing paper to provide additional cushioning for fragile items.
• Place wrapped dishes and glasses in sturdy boxes with packing peanuts or bubble wrap, to keep them from shifting during transport.
• Use packing tape to secure the newspaper or packing paper, and label the box “FRAGILE”
• Make sure to place the boxes with dishes and glasses near the top of the moving truck, to reduce the risk of damage.

Using old newspapers or packing paper as padding for dishes and glasses can be an effective and affordable way to protect them during transport. With a little extra care and attention, you can help ensure that your dishes and glasses arrive at your new home in one piece.

Use plastic wrap to keep drawers closed and keep contents inside during transport:

Using plastic wrap to keep drawers closed and keep contents inside during transport is a simple moving hacks but an effective way to protect your belongings and keep them organized during a move. Here are some benefits of using plastic wrap to keep drawers closed:

• By wrapping the drawers with plastic wrap, you can keep the contents inside from falling out or becoming disorganized during transport.
• Plastic wrap is a great way to keep drawers closed and to keep contents inside, as it adheres to the surface of the drawer and forms a tight seal, so you don’t have to worry about them coming open during transport.
• Using plastic wrap is easy, you only need to apply it to the drawer, and it will keep them closed and in place.
• It is also a cost-effective solution, as plastic wrap is relatively inexpensive and widely available.

Here are some tips to help you use plastic wrap to keep drawers closed:

• Make sure to clean the drawers before wrapping them to remove any dust or debris that may be present.
• Measure the amount of plastic wrap you’ll need to cover the drawer, using enough to create a tight seal but not too much that the drawers cannot move.
• Apply the plastic wrap to the drawer starting at the top, wrapping it around the sides and bottom of the drawer to create a tight seal.

Pack a moving day essentials box with items you’ll need immediately upon arrival, such as toiletries, a change of clothes, and bedding:

Creating a moving essentials box is another moving hack and a great way to keep important items together and accessible during the moving process. A moving essentials box is a container (can be a box or a bag) that you pack with items you’ll need to have on hand during the move. It should include items such as keys, documents, phone chargers, toiletries, and other items that you’ll need to have readily available. Here are some benefits of creating a moving essentials box:

• A moving essentials box allows you to keep all of your important items together in one place, making it easy to locate them when you need them.
• You’ll have easy access to the essentials you’ll need during the move, like cash, ID, keys, and important documents which can be helpful in case of emergency.
• You’ll have your personal items like toiletries, change of clothes or any specific medication you may need, easily available during the move.
• It can also serve as a temporary “first night box” when you get to your new home, you can have everything you need for the first night.

Here are some tips to help you create your moving essentials box:

• -Make sure to pack the essentials box last, so you can include any last-minute items that you may need.
• Label your essentials box clearly, and make sure it’s easily distinguishable from the other boxes.
• Keep a detailed inventory of what’s inside the box in case you need to locate a specific item quickly.
• Keep the essentials box with you during the move, rather than packed on the moving truck, so you can have quick access to the items when you need them.

Creating a moving essentials box can be a simple and effective way to keep important items together and accessible during the moving.

Using trash bags to pack clothes and linens:

Using trash bags to pack clothes and linens can be an easy and cost-effective way to keep these items organized and protected during a move. Trash bags provide a convenient and inexpensive way to pack clothes, linens, and other items that can be compacted down to a smaller size. Here are some benefits of using trash bags to pack clothes and linens:

• Trash bags are inexpensive and widely available, making them a cost-effective way to pack clothes and linens.
• They are also waterproof, which can provide extra protection for your items in case of accidents or inclement weather during transport.
• Trash bags can be used to pack items that don’t require much space, like clothes, linens, and other soft items.
• They can be compressed to take less space, which can be useful when packing a moving truck or storage unit.

Here are some tips for using trash bags to pack clothes and linens:

• Make sure to choose trash bags that are big enough to fit your items, but not so big that they will be difficult to move.
• Use packing cubes or compression bags to organize your clothes and linens before placing them in the trash bags.
• Tie the trash bags securely to prevent the contents from spilling out during transport.
• Use clear trash bags, they will allow you to see the contents and make it easier to find what you’re looking for.
• Label the bags with the contents and room they should go in, so you can easily unpack them in your new home.

Keep in mind that using trash bags can be a good solution for clothes and linens, but it’s not the best for fragile or heavy items. Be careful.

Create a color-coded labeling system:

Creating a color-coded labeling system for your boxes is a great moving hack and can be a terrific way to keep track of your belongings and make the unpacking process easier. A color-coded labeling system involves assigning a specific color to each room in your home and using that color to label the boxes that belong in that room. Here are some benefits of using a color-coded labeling system:

• It makes it easy to quickly identify which boxes belong in which room, saving you time and energy when unpacking.
• It’s a visual way to keep track of your belongings and makes it easy for you or any movers to know where each box should go.
• It can help you stay organized, you can visually know where everything belongs by a glance.
• It can also help prevent boxes from being placed in the wrong room, which can save you time when unpacking.

Here are some tips for creating a color-coded labeling system:

• Assign a different color for each room in your home, such as red for the kitchen, blue for the bedrooms, etc.
• Use color-coded labels, sticky notes, or tape to mark each box with the corresponding color.
• Be consistent with the color-coding system and make sure everyone moving with you knows the system.
• Make sure the labels are visible and large enough to be easily seen, even from a distance
• Make a list of the color-codes and the rooms they correspond to, so you can easily cross-reference it.

Creating a color-coded labeling system can make unpacking easier and less overwhelming. It’s a simple but effective moving hack to keep track of your belongings and make the moving process more organized.

Use furniture sliders to move heavy furniture:

Using furniture sliders to move heavy furniture around the house can be a great way to save your back, make the moving process more efficient and is one of the more often forgotten moving hacks. Furniture sliders are devices that you place under the legs of your furniture which make it much easier to slide them across the floor, instead of having to lift and carry them. Here are some benefits of using furniture sliders:

• Furniture sliders make it easier to move heavy items, as they distribute the weight of the item over a larger surface area, reducing the amount of lifting required.
• They can also protect your floors from scratches and dents that may occur when moving heavy furniture.
• Furniture sliders can help you move large items more easily, which will help you finish the move faster.
• They come in a variety of sizes and materials that can adapt to different types of furniture, flooring and weight loads

Here are some tips for using furniture sliders:

• Make sure to choose the right size of slider for your furniture, and choose sliders that are compatible with your flooring.
• Place the sliders under the legs of the furniture item before moving.
• Be sure to use sliders made of appropriate materials for the type of flooring you have.
• Slowly slide the furniture across the floor, rather than trying to push or pull it too quickly.
• Keep an eye out for any obstacles, such as door frames or tight corners, and remove them if possible or find a way to maneuver around them.

Using furniture sliders can make moving heavy items much easier and more efficient, which will help you finish your move faster and with less strain on your back. Moving hacks that are a smart move that will also make the move less tiring and will take some load off of your back.

Use vacuum-sealed bags:

One of the more underutilized moving hacks, using vacuum-sealed bags to pack clothes and linens can be an effective way to save space and protect your items during a move. Vacuum-sealed bags are plastic bags that have a valve on them through which you can suck out the air, compressing the clothes and linens inside to take up less space. Here are some benefits of using vacuum-sealed bags:

• Vacuum-sealed bags can reduce the volume of clothes and linens by as much as 75%, which can save you a significant amount of space when packing for a move.
• They protect your clothes and linens from dirt, dust, and other types of damage that can occur during transport.
• They can also protect your clothes from moisture, mildew, and odors which can be beneficial if you are storing your items for a long period.You can use them to store seasonal clothes or items that you don’t use often, they can help you save closet or storage space.

Here are some tips for using vacuum-sealed bags to pack clothes and linens:

• Make sure to use high-quality vacuum-sealed bags, to ensure that they provide a tight seal and don’t easily rip or tear.
• Avoid over-stuffing the bags, as this can cause them to burst or tear during transport.
• Use a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment to suck the air out of the bags, or use a vacuum-sealing machine, specially designed for this purpose.
• Label the bags with the contents and the room they should go in, to make it easy to unpack them in your new home.

Create an “Unpack First Box”:

Taking a box and labeling it “Unpack First Box” can be a useful strategy and one of a few moving hacks ensuring that you have the essentials you need to start living in your new home as soon as you move in. This box should contain items that you will need immediately upon arrival, such as toilet paper, light bulbs, and basic tools. Here are some items that you might want to consider including in your “Unpack First Box”:

• Toilet paper and other bathroom essentials, such as hand soap, towels, and a shower curtain.
• Light bulbs, so that you can start using the lights in your new home right away.
• Basic tools, such as a hammer, screwdrivers, and a level, which can come in handy for hanging pictures, assembling furniture, and making other small repairs.
• Cleaning supplies, like paper towels and a basic cleaning solution, to help you start cleaning your new home before you unpack all of your belongings.
• Snacks, bottled water and basic food items, like cereal, so that you can have something to eat while you unpack.
• Medications and toiletries you use regularly.
• Charging cables and phone charger, so you have access to your devices.

By creating an “Unpack First Box,” you can ensure that you have the essentials you need to start living in your new home as soon as you move in, without having to dig through boxes of unpacked items to find them. It’s a smart strategy to make the transition into your new home as smooth as possible.

Summary of Moving Hacks

It’s important to keep in mind that some of these moving hacks may not be applicable to your specific move, and you should always prioritize your safety and the safety of your belongings. Moving is a time-consuming and arduous task. Have a plan, and stick with it. You can do this!

For more about moving hacks, and for information about help with moving, please visit us at Moving Truck Driver.

For additional articles, please read our next blog post entitled Change Address Checklist: Who to Notify When Moving.