This is out of order but a huge piece of advice is to have moving day boxes. These boxes go in your car, not the moving truck or vans. These are the items that you are going to need immediately after moving. I advise having one for each room so that when you get unloaded at your new home you're not searching through boxes.
For example have a suitcase or box packed with two or three days worth of clothing and personal care items. That way when you're exhausted at your new home you already have clean clothes for a few days and don't have to rush to unpack these items.
The same goes for your kitchen and bathroom. As for children make sure that they have one moving day box for toys also. Let them choose what goes in the box and explain this is what they have to play with for a week and to make sure they pick out their favorites. This way there is no crying for a certain toy and the size of the box limits the number of toys.
Also when moving long distance I recommend having a fun bad for the car of things your child doesn't know about. Things like crayons and coloring books, new story books, and one of two new little toys that they can play with on the trip. With the items being new the enjoyment will last a little longer but make sure you have the tried and true stand byes within reach also.
Don't forget your pets! When traveling with them carry towels, puppy pads, food, local water (because change in water can upset their stomach) or bottle water, sickness meds, shot records, wet wipes, extra leash and collar.
Also in this I recommend having all your important papers at had like birth certificates, social security cards, shot records for your pets, extra checks, and so on. For your safety I would invest in a small lock box.
Tuesday, February 4, 2014
Packing the kitchen
When packing the kitchen I recommend having a great labeling system. Don't just write kitchen on the box or you will be pulling your hair out when you get to your new home. I like to list the important items in the box so I will know what to open and I make sure I have open first on the most important boxes. These are the things I know I will need to same day I'm in my new home. Things like a pot or two, paper plates, silverware...
Packing plates: Plates are so so so easy to pack! Here's my secret: Paper plates. When packing the plates I put a little bubble wrap or a towel in the bottom of the box then place in the first plate. Then alternate between paper plates and glass plates using the paper plates as padding. Then after moving you can still use the paper plates because your dishes were clean (I hope so anyway). These can also be used to pack you saucers.
Packing Bowls: This one is also easy and little or no paper is needed. Instead I use my dish rags and towels. Once again bubble wrap or towel in the bottom of the box. Then unfold the towels and drape them around the bowl making sure to go over the top. Then place in the next bowl and double the towel back over the top of that one also. You were going to have to move the towels anyway so why not put them to use? You can also use pot holders between them. It's all about not letting them clank together during the move.
Time for glasses and mugs: Now you can get out the paper or if you still have some dish rags, dish towels, or wash rags those can be used also. Using these will have you throwing away less after the move and believe me all that paper is a pain in the hiney. Make sure when packing these to put you Mugs on bottle but don't lay them on their side. This can lead to their handle being broke off. Just make sure to place the heaviest items first on so on. Because glasses brake so easy I like to top the box off with a bathroom towel on top (folded) so the there is cushion for whatever is set on top of it in the truck.
Packing Spices: I like to pack my spices away inside of other items, such as my crockpot. I will put my crock pot in a box and then load the spices inside it. Make sure to wrap and glass ones. Also on the crockpot lid I recommend wrapping it in a towel if it's glass. I've had to replace one of these lids and they aren't cheap. You can also store spices inside your microwave and toaster ovens. However if placing them inside those makes sure they can't move around on the inside.
Silverware drawer: This one is EASY! Just wrap the entire silverware holder in plastic wrap with the silverware still inside. Then place it into a box along with you cooking utensils and knives.
Knives: For these I like to bundle them in plastic wrap before putting them into the box. That way no ones hand reaches inside and gets cut. For really sharp knives I take a piece of cardboard and fold it in half and tape it around the blade.
Microwave/ Toaster oven and other large counter items: These are items that can't go in a box so make sure you protect them also. For these items I like to use masking tape to bundle their cords and tape them to the back of the item. Then I like to cover the entire thing with plastic wrap. If you have instruction manuals for these items it's not a bad idea to place those under the plastic wrap also so that they stay together.
Fridge: This has to wait until the day of the move but make sure to clean it well before that day! You don't want to take a mess with you! I don't recommend moving with items inside because it can mess up hinges and things can break. I like to use coolers. If you are moving a long way I'm sure you've tried to use up these items before now but you don't always get the chance.
During one move I had a lot of frozen meat so a few days before then move I placed these frozen items in a large freezer bag and then filled that bag with water and put in back in the freezer. This stops things from partially thawing and refreezing. In the coolers I used ice and blue ice cubes. I'm not a fan of dry ice because there is a chance of freezer burn plus it dangerous if touched.
After you get everything into coolers I like to take four or five strips of cardboard and tape them together. Then I tape these to the lip of the fridge door. This stops the fridge from shutting all the way and save you from having a mold problem. Now if you are moving across town this isn't a problem but it's another story when moving cross country. After putting the cardboard in the door make sure to put plastic wrap around the whole fridge so that it doesn't flop open and closed in the move. And as always bundle the cord with masking tape and tape it to the back of the fridge.
Canned and boxed food: There's not a lot of advice here. Just don't overload the boxes with canned items and if boxes are open I recommend taping them closed or even wrapping the box in plastic wrap
I think I've covered all there is in the kitchen. Let me know if I missed anything.
Packing plates: Plates are so so so easy to pack! Here's my secret: Paper plates. When packing the plates I put a little bubble wrap or a towel in the bottom of the box then place in the first plate. Then alternate between paper plates and glass plates using the paper plates as padding. Then after moving you can still use the paper plates because your dishes were clean (I hope so anyway). These can also be used to pack you saucers.
Packing Bowls: This one is also easy and little or no paper is needed. Instead I use my dish rags and towels. Once again bubble wrap or towel in the bottom of the box. Then unfold the towels and drape them around the bowl making sure to go over the top. Then place in the next bowl and double the towel back over the top of that one also. You were going to have to move the towels anyway so why not put them to use? You can also use pot holders between them. It's all about not letting them clank together during the move.
Time for glasses and mugs: Now you can get out the paper or if you still have some dish rags, dish towels, or wash rags those can be used also. Using these will have you throwing away less after the move and believe me all that paper is a pain in the hiney. Make sure when packing these to put you Mugs on bottle but don't lay them on their side. This can lead to their handle being broke off. Just make sure to place the heaviest items first on so on. Because glasses brake so easy I like to top the box off with a bathroom towel on top (folded) so the there is cushion for whatever is set on top of it in the truck.
Packing Spices: I like to pack my spices away inside of other items, such as my crockpot. I will put my crock pot in a box and then load the spices inside it. Make sure to wrap and glass ones. Also on the crockpot lid I recommend wrapping it in a towel if it's glass. I've had to replace one of these lids and they aren't cheap. You can also store spices inside your microwave and toaster ovens. However if placing them inside those makes sure they can't move around on the inside.
Silverware drawer: This one is EASY! Just wrap the entire silverware holder in plastic wrap with the silverware still inside. Then place it into a box along with you cooking utensils and knives.
Knives: For these I like to bundle them in plastic wrap before putting them into the box. That way no ones hand reaches inside and gets cut. For really sharp knives I take a piece of cardboard and fold it in half and tape it around the blade.
Microwave/ Toaster oven and other large counter items: These are items that can't go in a box so make sure you protect them also. For these items I like to use masking tape to bundle their cords and tape them to the back of the item. Then I like to cover the entire thing with plastic wrap. If you have instruction manuals for these items it's not a bad idea to place those under the plastic wrap also so that they stay together.
Fridge: This has to wait until the day of the move but make sure to clean it well before that day! You don't want to take a mess with you! I don't recommend moving with items inside because it can mess up hinges and things can break. I like to use coolers. If you are moving a long way I'm sure you've tried to use up these items before now but you don't always get the chance.
During one move I had a lot of frozen meat so a few days before then move I placed these frozen items in a large freezer bag and then filled that bag with water and put in back in the freezer. This stops things from partially thawing and refreezing. In the coolers I used ice and blue ice cubes. I'm not a fan of dry ice because there is a chance of freezer burn plus it dangerous if touched.
After you get everything into coolers I like to take four or five strips of cardboard and tape them together. Then I tape these to the lip of the fridge door. This stops the fridge from shutting all the way and save you from having a mold problem. Now if you are moving across town this isn't a problem but it's another story when moving cross country. After putting the cardboard in the door make sure to put plastic wrap around the whole fridge so that it doesn't flop open and closed in the move. And as always bundle the cord with masking tape and tape it to the back of the fridge.
Canned and boxed food: There's not a lot of advice here. Just don't overload the boxes with canned items and if boxes are open I recommend taping them closed or even wrapping the box in plastic wrap
I think I've covered all there is in the kitchen. Let me know if I missed anything.
Finding free boxes and other supplies you need
This one is a no brainer to me but then you look online where people are selling their used and purchased boxes and I have to think that they didn't have a clue because you don't need mirror boxes, plate boxes, and tv boxes. You need to know how to use a tape gun and plastic wrap.
I have three favorite sources of boxes but I'll list as many as I can because I know all of these are not available to everyone.
Grocery Stores: You won't find many boxes at large chain stores because they have box crushers and no room in back to store boxes for you. However if you call ahead they may be able to help you and let you know what day they get deliveries so that you can come get them. Please be kind to them. Their store rooms are very small so when they hold them for you please be prompt in picking them up or you make it harder on the next guy when the store decides not to help anyone else.
Liquor Store: These people are waiting for you. Everyone I know moves with liquor boxes. These boxes are wonderfully think and glued to no end. You will find after the move that you now hate them when it's time for you to break them down, but while moving they are great and tend to be in endless supply. Before running to the local liquor store (ABC store) give them a call first. While most have and endless supply others get upset when you just show up. Ask them when their next delivery is and ask if they will hold some for you. You might be lucky, many have boxes or stacks everyday, right outside their door. The only problem with these boxes are they are odd shaped and can be difficult to stack because of that. Plus they have the cardboard insert (please don't throw these in the liquor store parking lot). These inserts can be great for things like glasses but plan ahead to have to remove these and trash them.
Private Pharmacies: I discovered this one in my last move and they are now my favorite. A lot of pharmacies get their deliveries in plastic totes that are reused but a lot of them also get them in boxes. I love these boxes! They are larger and thicker. Plus they are easy to breakdown, transport, and then tape back together. Make sure to call your pharmacy first. Most don't want to tell their delivery date for safety reasons but will make you a stack. The pharmacy I got them from broke them down for me and put them behind their store then gave me a call. This was great because it didn't disturb their time or customers.
Furniture stores and rent to own stores: On these you have to call ahead. These boxes aren't standard boxes but you aren't getting them to box up dishes. You need these boxes for their size and to break down. These guys are what you are going to use to wrap your large flat screen tv, mirrors, and pictures.
Craigslist free section: Many people after moving post their boxes here. This is great because they did all the legwork for you. Also many times these fools bought those expensive boxes for you.
There might be more sources in your area but these are the basic places. Save your time going to places like Target and Walmart. These boxes are always crushed. Also be leary of second hand store boxes. These boxes tend to have roach eggs not because of the store but because of the people that donated them. They can also house bed bugs.
Now for the other supplies: (My list of must haves)
Bubble wrap- cheapest place to find this (I've found) is Uhaul stores, Staples, and Storage Rental places. You can also find it a Walmart
Tape Gun- Please save your fingers and buy this. It's a must have in my book. We only have one and keep it in a central location for everyone to use while packing
Tape- Packaging tape but don't get the easy tear because it easily brakes. Also masking tape for labeling and taping up wires
Plastic Wrap- I love this stuff! You can buy it designed for packaging on a roll with a handle or use the kind you have in the kitchen. If you go with the kitchen kind then buy it at Dollar Tree and save some money but the packaging kind isn't that expensive.
Clean news print- Yes you can use old newspaper but I don't recommend on nicer items because the print tends to transfer. You can get this at Walmart, Staples...
Newspaper- Need I explain why? Please don't rob paper boxes. Instead ask for the out of date ones or contact you newspaper office
Markers- I like to use different colors making sure the most important boxes are labeled in red so they are easier to find
I have three favorite sources of boxes but I'll list as many as I can because I know all of these are not available to everyone.
Grocery Stores: You won't find many boxes at large chain stores because they have box crushers and no room in back to store boxes for you. However if you call ahead they may be able to help you and let you know what day they get deliveries so that you can come get them. Please be kind to them. Their store rooms are very small so when they hold them for you please be prompt in picking them up or you make it harder on the next guy when the store decides not to help anyone else.
Liquor Store: These people are waiting for you. Everyone I know moves with liquor boxes. These boxes are wonderfully think and glued to no end. You will find after the move that you now hate them when it's time for you to break them down, but while moving they are great and tend to be in endless supply. Before running to the local liquor store (ABC store) give them a call first. While most have and endless supply others get upset when you just show up. Ask them when their next delivery is and ask if they will hold some for you. You might be lucky, many have boxes or stacks everyday, right outside their door. The only problem with these boxes are they are odd shaped and can be difficult to stack because of that. Plus they have the cardboard insert (please don't throw these in the liquor store parking lot). These inserts can be great for things like glasses but plan ahead to have to remove these and trash them.
Private Pharmacies: I discovered this one in my last move and they are now my favorite. A lot of pharmacies get their deliveries in plastic totes that are reused but a lot of them also get them in boxes. I love these boxes! They are larger and thicker. Plus they are easy to breakdown, transport, and then tape back together. Make sure to call your pharmacy first. Most don't want to tell their delivery date for safety reasons but will make you a stack. The pharmacy I got them from broke them down for me and put them behind their store then gave me a call. This was great because it didn't disturb their time or customers.
Furniture stores and rent to own stores: On these you have to call ahead. These boxes aren't standard boxes but you aren't getting them to box up dishes. You need these boxes for their size and to break down. These guys are what you are going to use to wrap your large flat screen tv, mirrors, and pictures.
Craigslist free section: Many people after moving post their boxes here. This is great because they did all the legwork for you. Also many times these fools bought those expensive boxes for you.
There might be more sources in your area but these are the basic places. Save your time going to places like Target and Walmart. These boxes are always crushed. Also be leary of second hand store boxes. These boxes tend to have roach eggs not because of the store but because of the people that donated them. They can also house bed bugs.
Now for the other supplies: (My list of must haves)
Bubble wrap- cheapest place to find this (I've found) is Uhaul stores, Staples, and Storage Rental places. You can also find it a Walmart
Tape Gun- Please save your fingers and buy this. It's a must have in my book. We only have one and keep it in a central location for everyone to use while packing
Tape- Packaging tape but don't get the easy tear because it easily brakes. Also masking tape for labeling and taping up wires
Plastic Wrap- I love this stuff! You can buy it designed for packaging on a roll with a handle or use the kind you have in the kitchen. If you go with the kitchen kind then buy it at Dollar Tree and save some money but the packaging kind isn't that expensive.
Clean news print- Yes you can use old newspaper but I don't recommend on nicer items because the print tends to transfer. You can get this at Walmart, Staples...
Newspaper- Need I explain why? Please don't rob paper boxes. Instead ask for the out of date ones or contact you newspaper office
Markers- I like to use different colors making sure the most important boxes are labeled in red so they are easier to find
Intro
I'm not in the military but can tell you I've moved a lot more than most of them. By graduation of high school I had been to 10 different schools and moved over 20 times. Then I became a truck driver and married a truck driver from another state. This led to more then 15 moves in 10 years. Then I've saw SO many sites popping up trying to sell items to people to make moving easier but I'm sorry I'm a cheapskate or frugal you can take your choice of wording. This isn't going to be the world's longest blog but it's not a way of life or a science. I'm just going to tell you how to do it the cheapest and easiest way I can. Everything from finding the best free boxes to moving your pets cross country and also how to pack everything.
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