By: Gene Rodriguez, III
Learning how to pack a moving van will allow you to make sure the job is done right even if you've hired professional movers, . If you're moving yourself, knowing how to pack a moving van will help you save money and protect your valuable property.
How To Pack A Moving Van Like A Pro
The entire concept of moving may throw you into a tailspin, but careful planning and thoughtful execution can simplify the job. Keep these tips in mind as you load up the truck move to Beverly-Hills, that is:
- Supplies are crucial. Of course, you'll need boxes (order 25 to 50 percent more than you think you'll need) but you'll need other supplies as well. You'll also need bubble wrap, packing paper (newspaper can leave stains), packing tape, labels, markers and furniture padding (which can be rented). Don't forget a couple of dollies to help move heavy items. Rope and tie-down straps can be helpful if you have loose items to secure.
- Start organized. Make an inventory of the items you'll be moving and divide the items into light, medium and heavy categories. Label all boxes for room, content, priority and special notes like "fragile" or "heavy."
- Build a wall. Your goal is to fill as much space as you can inside the van. It's like a law of physics: items that are close together tend to stay together, while items that have space around them will move into that space. Think of it as building a series of walls, starting at the back of the van and moving forward toward the door. Each wall should reach floor to ceiling and wall-to-wall.
- Work your way up. In general, you'll want to start with heavy items like appliances and furniture. Bulky items like sofas, refrigerators and dining tables should have priority while you still have room to move around inside the van. Place heavy items near the floor and as far back in the van as you can manage.
- Over medium. Medium weight items like boxes, electronics and small appliances should be stacked on top of heavier items. Remember to leave as few voids as possible, including under tables.
- Finish light. Use light boxes and small items to fill any empty spaces left behind. These lighter items will help secure your walls and keep things from shifting during the move.
- Repeat as needed. Keep building walls and working in layers as you move toward the doors of the van. Save fragile items for last and be sure to secure (with ropes or tie-downs) anything loose items left behind.