LAST MINUTE PACKING FOR MOVING

Unfortunately, not all moves are planned. Sometimes you get the news about a new job offer or life changing circumstances and you have to go. Last minute moves can seem terrifyingly stressful, but sometimes the less time, the better. Here are some tips and tricks for last minute packing to help you manage your move. 

17 TIPS FOR LAST MINUTE PACKING:

Though last minute packing can sound like an impossible task, it is totally possible. In some cases, you can even pack everything up in a week. Get creative, organized and start packing. 

GET PACKING SUPPLIES … NOW

You are going to need an abundance of packing supplies PRONTO. From scissors, to tape, to packing peanuts, bubble wrap to boxes, order them in bulk online or contact a moving company. You can purchase boxes from Amazon or stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot. You can also opt for reusable crates or try to find boxes on Offerup/Buy Nothing/Craigslist/Nextdoor or ask local businesses for leftover boxes. If you are not hiring movers you will also need moving blankets, dollies and plastic wrap. 

DONATE & DISPOSE

With little time to spare, you will need to start getting rid of clothing and knick knacks you don’t need. The lighter the load, the easier the packing process will be. Hold a yard sale or simply drop everything off at a donation center. Make sure you check the restrictions of your local thrift stores/donation centers because not all donation centers accept everything.

MAKE A PACKING ASSEMBLY LINE

Channel your inner Henry Ford. Clear up some space in your house and create a packing station to help make the process as organized and efficient as possible. Set up a few tables with all your packing supplies so that you can swiftly build boxes and pack them securely. 

MARKERS, MARKERS, MARKERS

Unfortunately when packing last minute you will not be able to organize all your belongings in the most efficient manner. That’s when labels become CRUCIAL. Use thick permanent markers to label your boxes. Consider using different colored markers to help you identify which box belongs to what room. For example, use a red marker for the bathroom and blue for the kitchen.

TAKE PHOTOS

Another great way to keep track of what you’ve packed away is to take pictures of the contents of the boxes on your phone. Label them on your phone so that you know what’s inside of all the boxes you pack. Use the Notes app to make short lists of everything you put in the box and attach the corresponding photo into the note. 

PACK EACH ROOM SEPARATELY 

When it comes to organizing your boxes, it can be best to go room by room. That way you don’t end up packing your attic books with your toiletries. Start with the rooms that you don’t use often (guest bathroom, guest bedroom) and put like-items together.  

HIRE MOVERS

Sometimes when you are moving on short notice, it may be best to hire a professional moving company. Call 2-3 moving companies in your area and ask for a free quote. You can also ask if they offer packing services and furniture disassembly. These add-on services can be absolutely crucial when moving in a pinch. When you hire full service movers you can also request boxes so that you don’t have to lift a finger. 

DOUBLE UP LINENS AS PACKING SUPPLIES

There are ways to double up your old t-shirts, socks, linens and towels as packing materials. For example, use kitchen and bathroom towels to wrap dishes, glassware and other fragile items. Using clothing/sheets/towels as packing materials can be an incredibly efficient way to pack. You can also save a bit of money on packing supplies by doing so.  

USE USPS MEDIA MAIL FOR BOOKS!

In general, shipping stuff across the country can be expensive. However, USPS Media Mail offers a good deal when you ship books and other educational materials. Shipping books can help you lighten your load and thanks to their discounted rate, this can also be super economical.

DON’T UNPACK DRESSERS/WARDROBES

While this is not always recommended, if you are moving in a hurry, consider leaving everything in the dressers and securely wrapping the dresser. Use heavy duty packing supplies to make sure that the dressers do not open in transit. 

USE GARBAGE BAGS & SUITCASES

An efficient way to pack is to use items you already have. Use garbage bags for non-fragile items like curtains, linens, bedsheets and clothing. You can also use suitcases you have to pack away clothing, toys, books and other items that don’t need heavy duty protection. 

DON’T UNHANG YOUR CLOTHES

If you are packing in a hurry, you can simply just take your clothes as they are and pile them into a box. This can save you time when it is time to unpack as well. 

REMEMBER YOUR DOCUMENTS

When packing in a hurry it’s easy to misplace birth certificates, passports, jewelry and other essential documents. Be sure to take the time to safely and securely put them away. Moreover, try not to load them in boxes and keep them on your person.

PACK A NECESSITIES SUITCASE

In a similar vein, remember to pack your necessities (a change of clothes, underwear, soap) that you will need throughout the move. While most of your belongings are going to be packed away in boxes, you are going to need some essentials to feel clean and sane.

ASK FRIENDS FOR HELP

Don’t be afraid to ask for help! Ask your friends, family and neighbors to see if they are willing to give a helping hand. You can also see if you can hire movers by the hour on TaskRabbit or Craigslist.

CONSIDER A STORAGE UNIT

If you really don’t think you can finish packing in time, consider renting a storage unit and putting your stuff away for a few months. Once you are comfortably settled into your new home you can get your boxes shipped to you or you can go recover them yourself. 

DON’T NEGLECT SLEEP

Don’t forget to rest and take care of yourself. Remember to eat, sleep and keep up with your personal routine and hygiene. Try to take steps to manage your stress to avoid over stretching yourself.

READY TO MOVE?

USA Preferred Movers is ready to help you move! From last minute packing to storage solutions we can help you with your move no matter how short notice. With over 40 years of moving experience, we can get any moving job done with ease. Request a free quote today!