Packing up the house is a reality at some stage in our lives.  Whether you’re shifting overseas, downsizing or even upsizing, you will be faced with that unenviable task of sorting through the cupboards and packing your entire home into some boxes.  But packing your home like a professional doesn’t need to be stressful. The team at Guardian Storage have lots of helpful tips that can assist you with your move, here are 3 tips to get you started.

1. Plan

Sounds simple right?  Planning your pack really is the number one rule before you start any serious packing. Work out how many rooms you have, including the storage cupboard, attic and spare room – then estimate how long each room will take. A rough rule is 1-2 days for each room and 2-3 days for the kitchen and garage. A good method is to have 3 piles – one pile for “give-away”, one for “throw-away”, and one pile to keep & wrap.  Don’t underestimate how long it takes to sort through the “junk”, and how much time it will take to wrap china & crockery etc.

2. Have The Right Boxes and Packing Supplies

There are some key items you need when you are packing:
• packing paper, newspaper
• packing tape & dispensers,
• bubble wrap,
• furniture and mattress covers,
• small & large boxes,
• marker pens.

It pays to use the correct boxes and quality tape.  Guardian Storage provide all of the above supplies, just call in to one of our stores to see the selection.

3. Pack Carefully and Label Well

You will need both large and small boxes, but don’t make the large boxes too heavy or they could fall apart. A good technique is to tape the bottom of boxes for extra support when packing heavy items.

Use plenty of tape to seal up the boxes.  Make sure you use the marker pens to label every box for yourself and for the furniture removal company if you are using one. Label items carefully, include the room it is to go in and a general description of what is in the box e.g. kitchen/plates. Don’t label valuable items specifically, and you may wish to transport these items yourself for safe passage.

Wrap fragile items in bubble wrap and don’t forget to label the boxes as fragile (use large letters so not to be missed). Artwork can be bubbled wrapped, or use corrugated cardboard or blankets to protect glass.  For items such as TV’s and other electronic gear protect the jack points by using cushions, pillows or some other buffer.

If you are hiring a removal truck, consider which items you need to unload first - make sure you place these in the truck last!

Packing like a professional takes time and involves patience. Having a system in place and following these three key tips will hopefully make the process a lot easier.

Remember, Guardian Storage New Zealand has everything you need in Boxes and Packing Supplies.  We also have removal trucks and trailers for hire.   Visit our website to find out more /.