Professional Movers' Advice for Efficient Packing in Salt Lake City, UT

Packing for a move is hard work. It always takes longer than expected and sorting your stuff so each box is packed tight while not being too heavy is a major factor in that. At Big Boy Movers we've helped many people like you in Utah and Idaho to move house. 

If you're feeling overwhelmed by the moving process it can help to take a step back and add some perspective. What are the goals for packing? The purpose is to get all of your stuff condensed into containers so it can all be loaded into a vehicle and moved elsewhere. 

Getting into it further, stuff is put into boxes or otherwise contained because it's easier to load, transport, and unload boxes than it is to move your belongings out of containers. Plus, it protects things from being broken in the process. 

Ultimately, as long as fragile items are protected, even throwing stuff into boxes (or bags, baskets or what have you) haphazardly will meet the goal. But packing that way increases the chance that items will be damaged or lost, it takes more space and time, and as a result unpacking will take longer. 

Packing efficiently will save you time and stress. Because moving house is a huge project, most of us just don't have the time to calculate exactly how many plates can fit in a box. So there are varying levels to which you can plan out packing. If you want to pack your belongings efficiently, you do need to make some plans. 

Some questions to consider before you start packing items:

1. How big are the items? How much space will they take up?
2. How much do these items weigh (together)? 
3. How much weight can any one box handle?
4. Are these items fragile or durable? 
5. Are the items important? 
6. Are the items used daily or less frequently?

You don't have to do this with every knick-knack, but considering these questions about groups of items, like sets of dishes, can be helpful in decision making. 

These questions about your belongings can be compared against what packing supplies you have, your moving schedule, and other variables. 

All of this brings us to… 

Big Boy Movers's Top Tips for Efficient Packing

1. Make a packing plan and checklist before you start.
2. Pack room by room.
3. Set aside important items before you pack (so they don't get mixed in).
4. Start packing with things you won't need right away.
5. Pack smaller things first, then move on to the bigger, heavier items (furniture).
6. Declutter before you pack (so you don't have to think hard about keeping things).
7. Have plenty of packing materials on hand (boxes, filler, tape, markers).
8. Remember it's okay if a box isn't filled perfectly; that's what filler materials are for.

When you get into the actual packing process, there are several techniques that professional movers like us use to make the job easier and more efficient. Let's dive deeper into each of these strategies.

Start with the Right Supplies

Before you even begin, make sure you have all the necessary packing supplies on hand. This includes:

1. Moving boxes in various sizes
2. Packing tape and dispenser
3. Bubble wrap and packing paper
4. Markers for labeling
5. Box cutters
6. Moving blankets
7. Plastic wrap for furniture

Having everything ready prevents those frustrating mid-packing supply runs that break your momentum.

Room-by-Room Strategy

Working room-by-room is crucial for maintaining organization. Start with rooms you use less frequently, like guest rooms, storage areas, or formal dining rooms. This approach helps you to:

1. Stay focused on one area at a time.
2. Track your progress more easily.
3. Keep similar items together.
4. Maintain organization in your living space during the packing process.

Smart Boxing Techniques

When it comes to actually filling boxes, here are some professional tips:

1. Use small boxes for heavy items (books, canned goods, tools)
2. Reserve medium boxes for everyday items (kitchen supplies, toys, linens)
3. Save large boxes for light, bulky items (pillows, blankets, lampshades)
4. Don't exceed 50 pounds per box for safety and maneuverability

Protecting Your Belongings

Taking care of fragile items is vital for preventing damage during the move. (We've written about handling sensitive items before.)

1. Wrap dishes individually in packing paper.
2. Place cups and glasses upright, not on their sides.
3. Use cell dividers for stemware.
4. Fill empty spaces with crushed paper or bubble wrap.
5. Double-box especially fragile items.
6. Use furniture pads for wooden surfaces.

Have a Labeling System

Develop a clear labeling system that works for you. We recommend including:

1. The room the box belongs in
2. A general description of the contents
3. Special handling instructions ("FRAGILE," "THIS SIDE UP")
4. Priority level for unpacking
5. A box number if you're keeping an inventory

Practical Packing Tips for Specific Items

Electronics:

1. Take photos of wire connections before disconnecting
2. Keep cords with their devices
3. Use original boxes if you have them
4. Back up data before moving computers

Clothes:

1. You can leave clothes in dresser drawers; just secure them with plastic wrap
2. Use wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes
3. Vacuum-seal seasonal items to save space

Books:

1. Pack them flat to protect spines
2. Use small boxes to prevent overweight loads
3. Consider donating books you won't read again

Kitchen Items:

1. Pack plates vertically like records for better protection
2. Use towels and dishcloths as padding
3. Pack similar items together (all mugs in one box, all plates in another)

Time-Saving Shortcuts

While proper packing takes time, there are ways to speed up the process. For example: 

1. Leave clothes on hangers and group them in garbage bags
2. Keep small hardware in labeled zip-lock bags
3. Don't empty dresser drawers; securely wrap the dresser in plastic as-is
4. Use luggage and laundry baskets as packing containers
5. Label boxes on multiple sides for easy identification

What Not to Pack

Some items should always travel with you, not in the moving truck:

1. Important documents and records
2. Medications
3. Valuable jewelry
4. Essential electronics
5. Basic toolkit
6. Change of clothes
7. Daily toiletries
8. Primary cleaning supplies

Final Preparations

As your moving day approaches:

1. Pack your box of essential items for your first night
2. Place important documents in a separate, clearly marked container
3. Take photos of valuable items before packing
4. Make sure boxes are properly sealed and reinforced
5. Stack boxes by weight, with heaviest on the bottom

Remember, while efficient packing is important, safety should always come first. Don't sacrifice proper protection for speed, and don't hesitate to ask for help with heavy items. At Big Boy Movers, we've seen countless moves, and we can tell you that taking the time to pack efficiently will save you hours of frustration and potential damages during the move.

Whether you're moving across Salt Lake City or to another state, these packing techniques will help ensure that your belongings arrive safely at your new home. And if you find yourself overwhelmed, remember that professional packing services are always an option. Sometimes, having experts handle the packing can be worth the investment in terms of time saved and peace of mind gained.

For more moving tips or to schedule your move with Big Boy Movers, call us toll-free at 877-70-MOVER. We're here to make your move as smooth and stress-free as possible.