Even a short move across town can feel incredibly stressful, but with a bit of preparation and strategy, you can make the whole process smoother and more manageable. Whether you’re upsizing or downsizing, being organized and packing efficiently will save you time, effort, and unnecessary stress—while helping the movers do their job more easily. Here are ten essential tips to maximize your space during your local move.
1. Hire Professional Movers
One of the best decisions you can make is to hire an experienced local moving company. Not only will they save you time, but their expertise in packing and loading will help you use every inch of space in the truck. Professionals know the tricks for packing efficiently, and they’re trained to handle your belongings with care. Plus, many movers provide packing materials and services, adding even more convenience to your move. Their help ensures that the process goes as smoothly as possible, leaving you with peace of mind.
2. Declutter Before Packing
Before you start boxing up your things, take a moment to declutter. Be ruthless with your decisions—sort items into four piles: “Keep,” “Donate,” “Sell,” and “Trash/Recycle.”
- Keep: If you haven’t used it in the past year or it doesn’t bring you joy, it’s time to let it go.
- Donate: Consider giving gently used items to local charities.
- Sell: If you’re up for it, sell items to make some extra cash, but be realistic about pricing.
- Trash/Recycle: Some things just aren’t worth the effort—disposing of them reduces the amount you have to move and unpack.
3. Stick to Uniform Box Sizes
Using boxes of the same size will make stacking much easier and create more stability in the truck. Medium-sized boxes are usually perfect—big enough to hold a decent amount of items without being too heavy to lift. Plus, they help you maximize vertical space in the truck, which is key to an efficient move.
4. Roll Clothes Instead of Folding
Save space by rolling your clothes and linens instead of folding them. Rolled items are more compact and can be packed tightly together, making them more efficient for storage. Rolling also minimizes wrinkles, so your clothes will be ready to wear right away without needing an ironing session.
5. Vacuum-Seal Bulky Items
For larger items like comforters, pillows, and seasonal clothing, vacuum-seal bags are a game-changer. They reduce the volume of bulky items, making them much easier to pack into tight spaces.
6. Maximize Every Available Space
Think of packing as a puzzle. Use every available space by placing smaller items inside shoes, pots, and even drawers. Just be sure to secure everything to prevent shifting during transport. It’s an easy way to ensure you’re using every inch of space in the truck.
7. Disassemble Large Furniture
Take apart large furniture whenever possible—remove legs from tables, disassemble bed frames, and break down bookcases. This makes everything easier to transport and helps you fit more in the truck. Plus, it reduces the risk of damage to bulky pieces.
8. Label Your Boxes Clearly
Label each box not just with its contents but also with the room it belongs to. This will save time during unloading and help you avoid unnecessary rearranging at your new place. Clear labeling makes the unpacking process far easier and more efficient.
9. Pack a First-Day Essentials Box
Prepare a box with everything you’ll need immediately upon arrival—think toiletries, a change of clothes, basic kitchenware, and important documents. Having these essentials on hand will save you from scrambling through boxes and help you settle in faster.
10. Use Plastic Bins for Heavy Items
For heavy items, like books, opt for sturdy plastic bins instead of cardboard boxes. Plastic bins are more durable, stack better without collapsing, and are less likely to tear or break. They’re worth the investment, and your back will thank you when it’s time to lift them.
Your Path to a Smooth, Stress-Free Move
By following these ten organization tips, you’ll be amazed at how much easier your move becomes. With a little planning and possibly the help of a trusted moving company, you’ll be settled into your new home in no time!