When it comes to relocating, proper packing can mean your things make it in good shape … or not. This moving house packing guide is designed to help you prepare for a smooth and stress-free move. As a professional moving company, with a track record of furniture removals in Brisbane and beyond, we understand the intricacies involved in packing up a home and have compiled our best tips to ensure your belongings are safe and well-organised.
Getting started: The essentials
The first step in any successful move is having the right supplies. Make sure you have plenty of sturdy boxes in various sizes, packing tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, and markers for labelling. Starting early and packing room by room will help you stay organised and reduce last-minute stress.
Booking a removalist
Are you going to get help with your move? To be sure that your move is done according to your timeline make sure that one of the first jobs you do is getting quotes and then booking your removalist as early as possible. This is especially important if your move is during school holiday periods or other public holidays when many choose to move. Our furniture removals in Brisbane and interstate teams are always super busy around these times so it’s good to get in early. And you can always start with a free quote from us.
Packing fragile items
When it comes to fragile items like glassware, dishes, and antiques, extra care is needed so do this at a time that doesn’t require rushing. Wrap each item individually in packing paper or bubble wrap and place them in boxes with plenty of cushioning.
Be sure to label these boxes as "FRAGILE" to ensure they are handled with care. Also, it is a good idea to identify the place or room into which the boxed items are to go.
Tips for moving furniture
Furniture can be one of the most challenging aspects of moving. Having a quality industry-leading furniture removalist handle your precious possessions from packing, loading and moving to unpacking relieves you of one of the most stressful activities in this huge job of relocating.
To get started, disassemble larger pieces if possible, and keep all screws and bolts in a labelled bag taped to the corresponding furniture. For added protection, wrap furniture in moving blankets or bubble wrap.
Special items: Fridge, mattress, TV, and bike
Some items require special handling during a move. Here’s a brief overview of how to pack and move these challenging pieces:
- Fridge: Defrost your fridge at least 24 hours before the move, clean it thoroughly, and secure the doors with tape.
- Mattress: Use a mattress cover to protect it from dirt and damage during the move.
- TV: Pack your TV in its original box if possible, or use a specialised TV box with ample padding.
- Bike: Remove the pedals and secure the handlebars. Wrap the frame in bubble wrap for added protection.
- Bed: Pack up the frame, keeping parts with it and pack mattress vertically.
You can find detailed guides on our website for moving a fridge, mattress, TV, and bike.
Packing electronics
Electronics such as computers, gaming consoles, and audio equipment should be packed in their original boxes if available. If not, use strong, appropriately sized boxes with plenty of padding. Label the boxes clearly and keep cables and accessories together in labelled boxes or bags.
Managing books and documents
Books and documents can be heavy, so pack them in small boxes or wheeled suitcases to avoid overloading. Place heavier books at the bottom and lighter ones on top. For important documents, consider using a waterproof container to protect them from potential damage. It can be worthwhile to consider carrying your personal documents and valuables yourself.
Artwork and mirrors
For artwork and mirrors, use special picture boxes and plenty of padding. Wrap each piece in bubble wrap and secure it with tape. Stand these items upright in the moving truck to reduce the risk of damage. If possible place such items between mattresses or other well-padded items to minimise movement.
Final packing checks
Before you seal any box, make sure it’s packed tightly to prevent items from shifting during the move. Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to in your new home. This will make unloading much easier for your moving team in addition to making unpacking much more efficient for you.
In a nutshell & extra tips
- Book removalist early
- Boxes - look online like Marketplace for used boxes, sometimes they will be free
- Sort according to the 4 R’s as you sort and pack: Recycle, Resell, Relocate, Refuse - dump
- Label boxes with the What and Where
- Use a codeword on the box used for valuables
- Label cables and box them separately
- Minimise your food items prior to moving
- Have an esky and ice blocks ready for your fridge items
- Wrap drinking glasses in socks
- Use linen for breakables and appliances if their original boxes aren't available
- Use wheeled suitcases for heavy items like books
- Create a site plan for removalists of where furniture is to go
- Use a large garbage bag to enclose clothes on hangers leaving hooks exposed
Organise a moving day pack
You may need
- Bed linen and pillows
- Toiletries, tissues and toilet paper
- Towels
- Undies and clothes for a couple of days
- First aid kit and painkillers
- Snacks, water, tea and coffee
- Cups, plates and utensils
- Electric kettle
- Rubbish bags
- Pet food and pet necessities
Conclusion
This Moving House Packing Guide is designed to help you navigate the complexities of packing and ensure your belongings arrive safely at your new home. Whether you’re handling the move yourself or seeking professional assistance, our team is here to help. For those needing specialised services, we offer expert furniture removals in Brisbane to ensure your move is as smooth and stress free for you as possible.
Feel free to check out our detailed guides on how to move specific items like fridges, mattresses, TVs, and bikes. We’re always here to provide support and make your move an outstanding success!
Happy Moving!
