Last Updated on November 13, 2024 by Kari-Ann Ryan
Wrapping fragile items in newspaper and expecting them to arrive at the destination unstained and in one piece is unrealistic. This and other packing mistakes can make a residential relocation a hassle. Learn about the 12 most common packing mistakes to avoid and ensure a seamless move.
What are the dangers of packing incorrectly?
Using damaged boxes to pack household goods isn’t the brightest idea. The boxes are likely to break during transit, leading to the breakage of the items inside. Improper packing precedes lost or missing items. Homeowners give themselves extra work when trying to locate their possessions.
What are common packing mistakes?
The following common packing mistakes can result in damage during a residential move. These errors can be avoided by learning more effective ways to pack. From the choice of quality packing materials to using the best packing methods available, homeowners can better protect their valuables.
1. Misusing Packing Materials
The inexperienced opt for the cheapest packing materials or misuse them, resulting in damaged goods. Relying on cheap materials like newspapers only increases the chances of goods breaking during transport. Instead, use high-quality packaging that won’t tear during the move.
2. Wrapping with Newspaper
No one wants to open a moving box and find their dishes temporarily or permanently stained with ink. But this is exactly what happens when homeowners wrap their fragile items in newspapers. Packing paper, which is ink-free, is a better alternative. Acid-free tissue paper is also recommended.
3. Overpacking Boxes
Overpacking and exceeding a box’s weight limit can lead to damaged goods. As a general rule, pack less than 50 pounds into a small box, 65 pounds into a medium box, and 70 pounds into a large box. Prevent boxes from becoming too heavy to carry safely.
4. Delaying Decluttering
Decluttering before a household move is a wise idea, as moving fewer items leads to a less-costly move. But delaying this important step gives homeowners more packing work and causes unnecessary clutter in the new home. Go through excess items before packing and either donate, sell, or discard them.
5. Using Plastic Bags
Plastic bags around the house may seem like convenient packing materials. But to the contrary, they are flimsy and break easily. The last thing a homeowner needs is for their linens, blankets, and pillows to break out of the bags and slide on the moving truck floor. Use boxes instead.
6. Packing in Old Boxes
While it’s good for the environment to re-use old boxes, it’s not the best idea for a residential move. Old, worn boxes are at risk for breaking. Plus, if they’re not moving boxes, they can crumple under the weight of other boxes. Buy sturdy, new moving boxes to prevent damage.
7. Leaving Boxes Half-Full
Fill empty spaces in packed boxes with packing peanuts or crumpled packing paper. Leaving boxes half-full can result in them being crushed when heavy items are stacked on top of them. Partially empty boxes also allow the goods inside to shift during transport, which can lead to damage.
8. Packing Hazardous Materials
Moving companies are prohibited from transporting certain goods in their moving trucks. The law prevents movers from carrying common household items, like ammonia, batteries, and bleach. Firearms, fire extinguishers, and kerosene also cannot be safely transported. Dispose of hazardous materials before the move.
9. Neglecting to Use Special Care
Fragile goods, like glassware or electronics, require special care when packing. Failing to do so can result in breakage. Proper packing of delicate items involves wrapping them in generous amounts of packing paper and bubble wrap. Pad boxes with air pillows to fill any gaps.
10. Failing to Safeguard Sharp Items
Every kitchen has a knife set; box cutters are likewise common household staples. Secure sharp items like these during the packing process to prevent injury to anyone handling the boxes. Wrap knives, scissors, and gardening supplies in bubble wrap or dish towels secured with bands.
11. Using Ordinary Tape
While ordinary tape is useful for many tasks, packing is not one of them. Boxes can break open during transport when high-quality tape is not used. Opt for 2-inch-wide packing tape for sealing boxes. Support the boxes with 2-3 layers of packing tape along the bottom flaps and sides.
12. Forgetting to Label Boxes
Forgetting to label boxes is a common packing mistake that makes unpacking a confusing ordeal. Homeowners are advised to mark each box with their contents and their intended location, like the kitchen or bedroom. Color-code the boxes to identify them easily. Also create an inventory list.
A final mistake that can lead to damaged goods during a move is hiring inexperienced movers. Working with a mover who cares about preserving the integrity of your valuables is crucial to a stress-free move. You’ll find such an experienced, professional mover at Mid-West Moving & Storage.
We transport your goods to your new destination with ease. One of our most helpful offerings is our packing services. Our moving crews utilize sturdy boxes, carefully wrap fragile goods, and work with high-quality packing materials to ensure your valuables are transported securely.
In addition, we offer unpacking services at the destination to save you time. Whether you opt for our packing services or unpacking services, your items are labeled and handled with utmost care to maintain organization and prevent damage. We also offer convenient climate-controlled storage facilities.
Our reputable moving company offers the free pickup of used boxes and inventory of all boxes. Customers may choose from partial packing or full packing services by our trained, licensed, bonded, and background-checked full-time movers. Your goods remain in secure hands.
Whether you are moving precious antiques, high-value goods, or items in unusual shapes or sizes, Mid-West Moving & Storage is prepared to pack them securely and professionally.
Call our Elk Grove Village, Illinois, location at 847.593.7201 to request more information for your upcoming move in and around Chicago.
