Moving home can feel like one of the most overwhelming, disruptive and challenging times in our lives. There are so many points to add to your checklist, it’s easy to feel like you’re going to forget something. House removal packaging is one of the most visual things you need to consider and therefore, tends to be at the forefront of people’s minds.
However, unless you’ve moved home recently or helped another person do so, there is still the question of what packaging you need. And what is the best option for reducing damage or loss during transit? Read on to discover moves.
Firstly, Consider the Cost
Before you jump on Amazon and start ordering hoards of boxes, consider the cost of packaging materials. If you live in a 3-bed family home (or indeed, if you have a lot of belongings in a smaller flat) you’ll likely have a lot of belongings. It’s not until you move home that you realise just how much you’ve accumulated during the years.
Decluttering should be one of the very first things you do when planning to move home as this will make it easier to identify what you do have that needs to be transported. Once you have a clearer idea of quantity, you need to consider the cost. Moving home can be an expensive task – especially if you opt for the highest quality packaging goods.
To reduce these costs, many people put the word out to family and friends to request any cardboard boxes they have in surplus. Check on marketplace websites too where larger companies list waste boxes regularly – it’s a cheaper way of getting the boxes that you need.
If you choose to work with a professional removal company, such as Wild & Lye Removals and Storage, you may be able to negotiate a deal where the packaging is included in your quote.
Choose the Right Packaging Material
Most people think of cardboard boxes when they move home. And these are certainly some key packaging materials you’ll need to consider. But there are others and many of them offer additional protection to fragile, awkwardly sized or specific goods. Let’s take a look at the options available:
Cardboard Boxes
We had to start with the most widely recognised packaging material. Cardboard boxes of all shapes and sizes allow you to organise your belongings by room, affix labels to keep everything organised and transport lots of items in one go. We recommend opting for square cardboard boxes where possible. They are easier to carry and can be stacked cohesively within moving vehicles. Try to choose ones with reinforced bottoms if you’re packaging heavier items.
Second-hand boxes are the most cost-effective option. But we do recommend making sure they are in good condition all around, so you don’t risk the bottom falling out during transport.
Plastic Boxes
If you’re particularly concerned about damage, you could use plastic boxes. Some removal companies have these for rent, so you don’t end up paying for storage you’re unlikely to use afterwards.
Bubble Wrap
This flexible transparent plastic has air-filled bubbles and offers a heightened level of protection to your fragile belongings. It is commonly used for items such as glass and ornaments. Bubble wrap is cheap and can be used for many applications. Wrap your favourite photo frames and belongings in it or use them to line your boxes before laying in your belongings.
Bubble wrap is normally sold in either sheets or rolls, so it can be cut to size as needed. And, it works well with tape for added security.
Packaging Tapes
If you have the budget, invest in quality packaging tapes. These adhesive rolls are specifically designed to withstand movement and impact, giving you more security with your boxes and reducing the risk of damage. You don’t want a tape that comes unstuck or one that snaps open while you’re moving a box. Packaging tape can be used for everything from securing boxes to sealing down bubble wrap and even adding more protection to furniture corners.
Labels
Making sure all of your boxes are clearly labelled is a good way to reduce the risk of loss. It will also make the process of unpacking on the other end considerably easier. And, if you pair labels with a detailed list of all your goods, you’ll be able to do the most with less stress and worry on your shoulders.
Furniture Covers
If you’re moving large items of furniture, you may want to invest in quality furniture covers. They normally have additional pads and covers used to protect the corners and glass sections. These covers also prevent dust damage or scuffing when the piece of furniture is in the van and are a good investment – especially if you’re moving sentimental furniture around.
Furniture Wrap
To offer a level of protection and to keep items together in one package, we recommend furniture wrap. Similar to shrink wrap, this heavy-duty plastic will secure doors and drawers shut while providing a waterproof cover – particularly important when moving during the rain.
The right packaging material for your moving day will reduce damage, prevent loss and help you move with ease. At Wild & Lye Removals and Storage, we offer a full house moving and storage service in which our team can pack, unpack and help move bulky furniture to your new home.
For more information on why we highly recommend working with a house removals expert or to book in with our team, get in contact here today.