Packing and moving can be long, tedious tasks to complete, so it’s wise to start as early as possible. You can get a majority of your belongings packed and ready up to a week before the move, leaving you time to focus on other aspects, like shutting off utilities, coordinating with the movers, and getting the keys to the new place. Below are some items that can be packed well in advance to save you time and energy later on.

4 Items & Belongings to Pack First

1. Seasonal Clothes, Extra Linens, & Rarely Used Dishes

First, make items that you aren’t currently using and won’t miss while they’re boxed up a priority. For example, clothes that are inappropriate for the current season should be boxed up or put in plastic tubs. You can also pack up spare shower towels, dish towels, washcloths, tablecloths, and bedsheets. Dishes you don’t use often — like a wok or pie tins, for example — can be put into boxes or tubs as well. By doing so, these items will be ready for the movers to take on moving day.

2. Storage Unit & Attic Spaces

This one is simple because most of these items are probably already boxed up, disassembled, or otherwise ready to move. Always check the condition of the boxes and storage bins to ensure they’re damage-free and strong enough to withstand the jostling of residential moving. If any container or box is damaged, move the contents into a new one. If there are any items that aren’t ready to move, pack them up. You’ll also want to make sure everything is clearly labeled to make unpacking at the new place easier.

4. Books & Jewelry

While you can keep a book or two out to read in the coming days, you should get all other books — including magazines and cookbooks — ready for packing and moving. Use small boxes so they aren’t too heavy to move and the bottoms don’t collapse. Your jewelry should also be carefully packed away, where it’ll be free of tangles or bumps during the move.

3. Art, Decor, & Trinkets

Next, pack up all paintings, household decor, and trinkets. You won’t need them before you move out, and packing them in advance makes sure nothing is overlooked or left behind. You should properly pad and wrap fragile items, and consider having large or expensive paintings professionally crated to protect them from damage during the move.

Hiring a professional residential moving company can further simplify your packing and moving experience. E-Z Moving & Storage in Carlsbad, NM, offers reliable local and long-distance moves, including interstate and international ones. With over 28 years of experience, they’ll handle everything, including packing, loading, transportation, unloading, and unpacking. Learn more about their comprehensive packing and moving options online, and call (575) 887-3334 for a free estimate.