Essential Packing Tips for a Smooth Local Chicago Move

Declutter and Organize:

Sort and Purge:

Before you start packing, take some time to tidy up your possessions. Categorize items into categories such as keep, donate, sell, or discard. Cutting down on unnecessary items will lessen the packing workload and help establish a clean slate in your new home.

Create a Packing Plan:

Formulate a packing plan to maintain an organized approach throughout the process. First, start with non-essential items and steadily pack the important items as moving day approaches. Prioritize packing one room at a time, labeling each box with its contents and the specific room it is intended for.

Gather Packing Supplies:

Sturdy Boxes and Containers:

Collect an ample supply of durable moving boxes in various sizes. Choose premium boxes that can bear the weight of your belongings and resist crushing during transport. Many of Corrigan’s offices offer no-cost secondhand boxes to our customers, which can be a great way to reduce waste and cut down on your cash outlay of purchasing materials. Bear in mind that secondhand inventory can fluctuate from day to day, so plan ahead and leave yourself plenty of time for packing.

Protective Packing Materials:

Get protective materials such as bubble wrap, packing paper, packing peanuts, or foam sheets to provide padding and protection for your items. Use these materials to wrap delicate objects, fill empty spaces within boxes, and prevent movement during transit. Start stockpiling the packing material from shipments you receive, that material can be reused for your move!

Essential Packing Tools:

Equip yourself with packing essentials, including packing tape, scissors, markers, labels, and small storage bags. These tools will assist you in securely sealing boxes, labeling them for easy identification, and keeping small items organized (like bookshelf pegs, or other tiny pieces and parts).

Packing Techniques:

Room-by-Room Packing:

Focus on packing one room at a time to maintain organization and reduce unpacking confusion. Start by tackling rooms and belongings you rarely use, then step by step move to more important rooms.

Categorize and Label:

Sort items within each room into simple categories. Clearly label each box with its what is inside, the corresponding space, and any special handling instructions. This will facilitate efficient unpacking and help local movers position boxes in their specified rooms.

Protect Fragile Items:

Wrap fragile items one by one with protective bubble wrap or packing paper. Use dividers or individual containers for fragile items like fragile glasses, fine china, or tech gadgets. Fill empty spaces in boxes with packing peanuts or packing paper to avoid moving around and minimize the risk of damage.

Disassemble and Secure Furniture:

Disassemble furniture, if you can, to facilitate easier packing and efficient use of space. Keep screws, bolts, and other components together by placing them in labeled bags or taping them securely to the furniture. Take pictures of items before you disassemble them, so you can have an simple reference for putting it back together!

Efficient Loading and Unloading:

Create a Pathway:

Ensure open pathways in your home on moving day. Eliminate obstacles and tripping hazards to maintain safe and efficient movement for local movers.

Heavy Items First:

Load heavier and bulkier items onto the moving truck first. Place them at the bottom and against the truck's walls to establish a stable foundation. Less heavy boxes and breakable objects should be loaded on top to prevent crushing.

Essential Items in Easy Access:

Pack a dedicated "essentials" box with things you may need immediately upon arrival, such as personal hygiene products, fresh clothing, important documents, and cooking essentials. Keep this box handy for a smooth transition into your new home.

Partnering with Local Movers:

Research and Choose Reputable Local Movers:

Spend time investigating and selecting reputable local movers with a proven track record of reliability and excellent customer service. Go through reviews, ask for recommendations, and compare moving quotes to make an knowledgeable decision.

Communication and Coordination:

Maintain clear communication with your chosen Chicago local moving company. Share precise information about your inventory, packing requirements, and any distinctive items that may require extra attention during the move.

Seek Professional Packing Assistance:

If you choose to focus on other parts of your move, inquire about packing assistance offered by local movers. Skilled packers can effectively and securely pack your belongings, saving you time and ensuring the best protection during this important phase. At Corrigan Moving Systems, we can customize our services to meet your needs. We can pack your entire home, or just certain fragile pieces. Your expert move consultant can provide details on how to most effectively protect particular items, and formulate a tailored quote for these services.