DTWNews

Every year, millions of Americans move their households. The grand total for 2010 was 6.7 million, comprised of military movers and civilian movers. That count was an enormous sweep from the 2007-2008 year during which only 34 million people moved, the lowest number since 1959-1960. Though millions upon millions of people move every year, we still have not managed to streamline the process into an exact science. Moving is stressful, no matter which way you slice it. In this article, we’ll provide a few tips for movers that can make the process easier and more efficient for cross neighborhood and long distance movers alike.

1. Pack Like a Pro

   A better moving experience starts long before the moving pods get packed. If you save space when you’re packing boxes, you’ll find the process much simpler. When you pack your clothes, towels, and sheets, don’t fold them. Roll them up to save space, instead. Pack your books in a rolling suitcase to save you the trouble of hauling them. Put your essentials all together in one clear bin to make them easier to spot. Packing smart is the key to a better experience.

2. Reward Yourself

   If you can, get to your new place before people start moving boxes and clean up the bathroom and kitchen. Put up a new shower curtain liner, stock some new bath towels and toilet paper, and put a few essentials in the kitchen. After a long day of moving, you’ll be able to reward yourself with a hot shower and a tasty snack.

3. Use What You’ve Got

   Instead of buying tons of bubble wrap and packing foam, use your clothes and linens to cushion breakable items. Put your glasses in your socks and use tee shirts to keep dishes from rattling around. It saves you space and money. Win win! And while you’re at the whole resourceful thing, just take the drawers out of your dresser and cover them with press and seal wrap. You won’t have to unpack and refold their contents, and it will make the dresser lighter. It’s a win all the way around.

4. Speaking of Press and Seal…

   There’s not much worse than getting to your new place only to find that entire box of stuff has been doused in shampoo or body wash or rubbing alcohol. Before you pack up your liquids, unscrew the cap and cover the opening with plastic wrap. Then, replace the cap. No more spills!

5. We Have the Technology

   We live in a world where cameras are about as readily available as water, so take advantage of it! Instead of keeping a written inventory, photograph all your stuff before you pack it. Before you disconnect your electronics, snap a picture of all the wiring so you know how to hook it back up again.