Tips for packing for a move: A thorough explanation of efficient packing procedures and methods

The first thing you need to know! The big picture to make packing go smoothly

The trick to packing for a move smoothly is to get a grasp of the "big picture" first. Understanding the amount of luggage and following the following order will help you avoid mistakes: disposing of unnecessary items → grouping → packing items starting with the least frequently used. Furthermore, if you systematize the weight management and labeling of cardboard boxes, you can significantly reduce confusion and the hassle of unpacking on moving day.

The main reasons why packing never ends

The reason why people can't finish packing for a move is usually not because of the amount of time it takes to complete the task, but rather because of a lack of planning.

Representative examples include:

• Don't dispose of unnecessary items first, and waste time packing them away while you're unsure.
• Instead of separating items by room or purpose, you tend to pack them in boxes "as you find them," which means you have to go through the trouble of re-sorting them later.
• Work stops midway due to lack of materials such as cardboard boxes and cushioning materials
• If you seal things you will use until the day too early, your life will be disrupted and you will have to redo more.

These are the four points. First, make "throw away, separate, pack first" your fixed rule, and eliminate any steps that cause confusion, which is the shortest route.

Basic principles of packing

The basic principles of packing are: pack in order of least frequently used items, pack by room, and pack heavy items in small boxes.

First, group your home by room and purpose, and start packing items you won't be using until moving day, such as off-season clothing and stock items. Reinforce the bottom of the cardboard boxes with a cross, and the rule of thumb is to pack heavier items (books and dishes) smaller and lighter items (clothing) larger. Fill any gaps inside the boxes with cushioning material or towels to prevent damage and deformation. Finally, label them with "destination (room name)," "contents," "top and bottom," and "open first," which will make moving in and unpacking much easier.

Setting goals to avoid problems on moving day

Here are three goals to set to avoid any problems on moving day:

• "90% sealed by the day before"
• "Minimize the number of boxes sealed on the day"
• "Create a box with priority for opening"

Ideally, you should pack everything except daily necessities the day before, and on the day of the move, only carry-on luggage and "boxes to be packed last" should be left. Furthermore, prepare a "first box to open first" containing the items you will need first in your new home (toiletries, chargers, bedding, a day's worth of clothes, minimum tableware, documents and valuables) and mark it prominently. If the goal is unclear, your belongings will continue to be scattered until the day of the move. Conversely, if you design your move to "get as close to zero as possible on the day of the move," you can significantly increase the efficiency of both moving out and unpacking.

When to start packing? Ideal schedule and procedure

The key to successful packing for a move is to divide up the tasks into different stages rather than packing all at once at the last minute. A good rule of thumb is to start preparations one month in advance, start packing in earnest two weeks in advance, and complete 90% by the day before. By keeping this flow in mind, you can avoid running out of time or forgetting to pack, and you'll have plenty of time to prepare on the day of the move.

Here we explain the ideal schedule and procedures.

1 month to 3 weeks before: Determine necessity, dispose of unnecessary items, and group luggage

At this time, "decision" takes priority over "packaging."

First, review your belongings in the house and identify items you are not using or will not be taking to your new home. For unwanted items, check the bulky waste collection date and use a flea market app, buy-back services, or municipal collection services for efficient disposal. At the same time, group your belongings by room and purpose and estimate the number of cardboard boxes you will need. If you do not classify them properly here, you will likely end up having to repack them later.

This is a process worth taking your time on, as it lays the groundwork for a smooth move.

2 to 1 week before: Start packing off-season/less frequently used items

This is the time to start packing in earnest.

Pack items that you won't be using until moving day, such as out-of-season clothing, bedding for guests, books, and stock items, starting with the items you won't be using until moving day. Be sure to write the room name, contents, and top and bottom of each cardboard box, and separate heavy items into small boxes and lighter items into large boxes. The trick is to leave items that you still have the possibility of using open, so that you can close them together later.

If you plan ahead, you can greatly reduce the risk of panicking the day before.

5 days before to the day before: Pack non-essential items and confirm the destination of each box

Just before moving is the "finishing" phase.

Pack almost everything except for items you will need until the day of the move, such as kitchen utensils, clothes, and appliances. At this point, clearly write down the destination of each cardboard box in your new home (e.g., bedroom or kitchen), and mark the boxes that you want to open first with a clear mark. This will simplify instructions when moving in, and make unpacking much easier.

If you can seal more than 90% of the items by the day before, the burden on the day will be minimal.

On the day: Organizing baggage, sealing it up, and securing a route for carrying it out

On the day of the move, simply execute the plan you made the day before.

The golden rule is to pack valuables, documents, chargers, a day's worth of clothes, etc. in your carry-on luggage and not put them in cardboard boxes. Seal any remaining boxes and make a final check to make sure there are no items on the route from the entrance to the move-out area. Keeping an open passageway will prevent delays in work and prevent the risk of overtime or additional charges.

Advance preparation is essential so that you can move around comfortably on the day.

What should I pack first? How to proceed with packing

When packing for a move, it's easy to get lost in the question of "what to pack first." In conclusion, the biggest trick is to stick to the following order: dispose of unnecessary items → group your belongings → pack items you won't use first. If you break this order, you'll end up having to repack and look for things more often, which will make things inefficient.

If you follow these five steps, you'll be able to finish packing well before the day of the move. Here are the five steps we'll explain.

Step 1: Get rid of unnecessary items

The first thing you should do when packing is to get rid of unnecessary items. By first reducing the items you are not using or will not be taking to your new home, you can significantly reduce the amount of packing you need to do. The criteria for this are "Have you not used it for over a year?" and "Will it fit in the storage space in your new home?"

Disposal methods are most efficient when combined with local government bulky waste collection, flea market apps, and recycling shops. If you start packing without leaving any unwanted items behind, you may later decide you don't need them after all, which means having to open the boxes again. The first step to successful packing is to thoroughly consider what you want to throw away, give away, and sell.

Step 2: Group your luggage

Once you have reduced the amount of unnecessary items, the next step is to group your belongings.

The basic idea is to organize your belongings by three axes: by room, by purpose, and by the layout of your new home. For example, organizing your belongings by room, such as bedroom, kitchen, and bathroom, will make unpacking easier after moving in. At this stage, it's important to roughly determine the number of cardboard boxes you'll need and separate heavy items (books, dishes) from light items (clothes, towels).

If the grouping is unclear, the contents of the box will get mixed up and you will have to search for things more often later. Organizing before packing is crucial for work efficiency.

Step 3: Pack anything you won't be using until moving day

Once you've finished grouping your items, start packing items that you won't be using until moving day. Typical examples include out-of-season clothing, futons for guests, books, decorations, and stock items. The basic rule is to reinforce the bottoms of cardboard boxes and pack heavy items into smaller boxes.

If you write the name of the room, contents, and top and bottom of the boxes, it will be easier to give instructions when bringing them in and unpacking them. By packing away items that can be packed early, the room will be organized and the workload later will be reduced.

Step 4: Keep any items you might still use unsealed

The trick is to store items that you are likely to use right up until the move in cardboard boxes that are left unsealed. Everyday clothes, toiletries, and the minimum amount of dishes and cooking utensils should all be packed together in boxes so that you can access them at any time. Forcing yourself to seal them will make your life inconvenient, and you will likely end up having to reopen them.

This method allows you to simply seal the bags all at once the day before or on the day itself, saving you time.

Step 5: Seal all boxes on moving day

The final step is to seal all of the cardboard boxes on moving day.

If you pack more than 90% of your items the day before, then on the day of the move, all you need to do is close the boxes containing your daily necessities. Once sealed, check the number of boxes and do a final check of the labels to make sure that nothing is left in the path of your move.

If you prepare in advance, you can respond without panicking on the day and avoid the risk of work delays and additional costs.

List of packing supplies and items needed for packing

To ensure smooth packing for your move, it's important to gather all the necessary items and packing materials in advance. If you run out of materials along the way, work will come to a halt and your schedule will likely be disrupted. In addition to the bare minimum of essential materials, knowing what convenient gadgets will increase work efficiency and what materials are specifically for home appliances and furniture will help you pack efficiently.

Required packaging materials

The four essential packing materials required for packing are cardboard, duct tape, cushioning material, and permanent marker.

• We prepare cardboard boxes of different sizes, using small sizes for heavy items and large sizes for light items such as clothing.
• Cloth or craft type duct tape is easy to use, and the basic method is to reinforce the bottom in a cross shape.
• Cushioning material is essential for fragile items and to fill gaps, and newspaper or towels can be used instead.
• Use a permanent marker to write the contents of the box, the room name, and the top and bottom.

By preparing these items together at the beginning, you can pack efficiently and without interruption.

Useful and helpful items

Although not essential, there are many handy items that can make packing much easier.

• Using colored stickers and masking tape to color-code each room will help you save time when moving in and unpacking.
• Rubber bands and cable ties are useful for bundling cords and cutlery.
• Work gloves and rubber gloves protect your hands and reduce the strain of working for long periods of time.
• It's a good idea to have tools such as scissors, cutters, and screwdrivers on hand.
• If you have a hanger case or clothing cover, you can transport your clothes without folding them and prevent wrinkles.

Using these helpful items will make packing less stressful.

Materials that are often needed for home appliances and furniture

When packing home appliances or furniture, special materials other than regular cardboard may be required.

• Packaging materials for home appliances, styrofoam, and stretch film are effective in protecting televisions and refrigerators.
• It's a good idea to prepare cable ties and label tags to bundle cords and hoses together so you don't get confused when installing them.
• If you need to disassemble your furniture, screw storage packets and masking tape are helpful.
• It's also a good idea to have protective materials to protect the corners of large furniture.

Anticipating and preparing these materials in advance will reduce the risk of damage and ensure a safe move.

Tips for cardboard packaging

When packing for a move, the efficiency and safety of the work can be greatly affected by how you use cardboard boxes. By following the correct assembly and packing methods and following clear labeling, you can prevent damage and problems during transportation. In particular, paying attention to three points - "reinforcing the bottom," "balancing the weight," and "following labeling rules" - will lead to a smooth move and shorten the time it takes to unpack.

How to assemble cardboard

If cardboard is assembled incorrectly, it can cause the bottom to collapse or become distorted during transport. The basic rule is to reinforce the bottom with a cross-shaped tape using packing tape, and for boxes containing heavy items, to use an H-shaped tape. The strength will increase if the tape is firmly fastened not only to the bottom but also to the seams on the sides. When assembling, it is also important to place the box on a flat surface and check for distortion.

Choosing the right size box is also important: smaller boxes are easier to carry for heavy books and tableware, while larger boxes are easier to carry for lighter items like clothing. Proper assembly is the foundation for safe and efficient packing.

Heavy items → Light items, fill in the gaps

When packing items into cardboard boxes, the basic rule is to place heavy items at the bottom and lighter items on top. For stability, place heavy items such as books and dishes at the bottom and then layer towels and clothes on top. The weight of each box should be "a weight that can be comfortably carried by one person," and it is important not to overpack.

Also, if there are gaps inside the box, the contents may shift during transport and cause damage. Use cushioning material, newspaper, or towels to fill any gaps. Packing the boxes with weight and stability in mind will help prevent accidents and improve work efficiency.

How to write and mark items such as "top and bottom," "fragile," and "open first"

Labeling cardboard boxes is an important point to ensure smooth moving.

• First, write the "room name" and "contents" in large letters on the side of the box, and for items with a specific top and bottom, be sure to include an arrow saying "top and bottom up."
• It is effective to clearly mark breakable items such as tableware and glassware as "fragile" and surround them with a visible color.
• On boxes containing items you will need immediately in your new home, write "Opening first" or "Use immediately" and identify them with colored stickers to make unpacking go more smoothly.

By standardizing the display rules, it becomes easier to give instructions when moving in, and it significantly reduces stress after moving.

Color-coding rooms to speed up unpacking

If you want to streamline unpacking after moving, it's effective to manage your cardboard boxes by "room-specific color coding." Assign a color to each room in your new home in advance, and then stick corresponding colored stickers or masking tape on the cardboard boxes.

for example,

• The kitchen is red
• The bedroom is blue
• The bathroom is green

By deciding on these rules, you can tell where things go just by looking at the color when it's time to move them in. You can also give instructions to the movers with a simple "red goes in the kitchen," which will help the work go more smoothly. Furthermore, by sticking the same colored paper on the doors and walls of each room in your new home, you won't get lost. By writing the room name and contents on the side of the boxes, you can prevent people from finding things when unpacking. Simply deciding on and sharing color-coding rules in advance can significantly reduce the work time after moving.

Tips for packing different types of luggage [Fragile items/Kitchen]

Kitchen utensils and fragile items are at particularly high risk of damage when packing for a move. The basics are to thoroughly follow three points: wrap each item individually, pack them upright, and avoid leaving any gaps.

By choosing the right size cardboard box and packing it in the right way, you can transport your dishes and cooking utensils safely. Knowing the correct packing method will help you avoid having to buy new items or having to deal with any problems after moving.

How to pack tea bowls

Because rice bowls are rounded and easily breakable, it is essential to wrap each bowl individually. Covering the entire bowl with newspaper or cushioning material and wrapping it from the bottom will make it more stable. When placing bowls in a cardboard box, the trick is to place them upright, not stacked. If placed horizontally, the impact will be concentrated in one point, which can cause them to break.

Fill any gaps with rolled up paper or towels to secure the item inside the box. Choose a small cardboard box and be careful not to make it too heavy. Finally, it's a good idea to clearly mark the item as "fragile" and "top and bottom" to ensure it stays secure.

How to pack plates (flat plates)

The safest way to pack flat plates is to stack them, wrap them, and store them upright. Place newspaper or cushioning material between each plate, and wrap several plates together. Then, arrange them upright inside the cardboard box, making sure to fill in any gaps.

It is a rule of thumb to avoid placing items horizontally, as they are prone to breaking under their own weight. Place cushioning material at the bottom of the box to absorb shock. Large plates are particularly heavy, so the key is to use small boxes instead of forcing them in.

How to pack cups and glasses

The drinking rim of a cup or glass is the part that is most likely to break. When wrapping in newspaper or cushioning material, stuff the inside with paper to increase strength. The basic rule is to place them vertically, with the bottom facing downwards. For stemmed glasses, focus on protecting the stems, and if possible, create individual dividers to ensure safety.

Be sure to fill any gaps in the cardboard and secure the item so that it does not move around inside the box. Don't forget to label the item as "fragile" and "handle with care."

How to pack cutlery (knives, etc.)

When it comes to knives and other sharp objects, safety measures are important as well as preventing breakage. Cover the blade with thick paper or cardboard, and then secure it with newspaper or tape. The key is to protect the cutting edge properly so that it is not exposed.

If there are multiple bottles, it is safer to dispose of them one by one rather than wrapping them together. It is also a good idea to clearly state "Contains sharp objects" on the cardboard box to warn people to be careful not to injure themselves when opening it.

How to organize kitchen utensils and cutlery

Packing cutlery such as spoons, forks, and chopsticks by type will make unpacking easier. Loosely bundle them with rubber bands or cable ties, wrap them in newspaper, and then box them. Putting small cooking utensils in small boxes or cases will help prevent them from getting lost.

It can also be used to fill gaps in cardboard boxes, so one option is to put it in the same box as fragile items. However, be sure to pack it separately from knives.

How to pack pots and pans

Pots and frying pans are relatively hard to break, but they are heavy, so you need to be careful when packing them. Stack them by size and place newspaper or towels between them to prevent scratches. Wrap the lids separately and store them upright to prevent breakage.

If the item has a handle, cover it with cushioning material to prevent it from getting caught on other items. It is important to use a medium to small size box and adjust it so that it is not too heavy.

Preventing leakage of seasonings and liquids (determining whether to carry or discard)

Condiments and liquids can contaminate other items if you do not take proper precautions to prevent leakage. After tightly closing the lid, wrap them twice in plastic wrap or a plastic bag, and then pack them upright in a box.

Unopened or expensive seasonings are worth carrying, but it's also important to decide whether to dispose of partially used or small amounts. Oil and soy sauce in particular can cause great damage if they leak, so it's a good idea to pack them in a separate box and label it "contains liquid."

Tips for packing different types of luggage [clothing, bedding, daily necessities]

Clothing, bedding, and daily necessities are large quantities of luggage, and if packed incorrectly, the cardboard box can easily become bulky. It is important to keep in mind three basic points: "Don't compress it too much," "Separate the items you will use on the day," and "Prevent moisture and leaks."

If you pack your belongings correctly according to their purpose, you can resume your daily life immediately after moving and the burden of unpacking will be greatly reduced.

Packing the futon

Futons are bulky, so it's best to use special futon bags or bags provided by moving companies. If you pack them yourself, dry them thoroughly on a sunny day to remove any moisture before storing them. Compression bags save space, but they're difficult to restore if left in for a long time, so they should only be used for short periods of time.

When putting futons into a futon bag, it will be more stable if you place the heavy mattress on the bottom and the comforter on top. If you use your futon frequently, it is convenient to separate the futon you will be using on the day.

clothes

The trick to packing clothes is to separate them by type and frequency of use. It is efficient to fold everyday clothes and underwear and put them in cardboard boxes, and use a hanger case for suits and dresses that you want to avoid wrinkles.

Because clothing is light, it is common to use large boxes, but be careful not to pack too much as it will be difficult to carry. It is a good idea to pack out-of-season clothes first and prepare a change of clothes for the day of the move as a separate piece of carry-on luggage.

Packing laundry and towels

Always pack laundry and towels dry. Packing them while damp can lead to mold and odors, so be careful. Towels can also be used as cushioning material, so using them to fill in gaps around fragile items can reduce the number of cardboard boxes you need.

If you put frequently used towels and loungewear in a "priority opening box," you'll be able to live comfortably right after moving in. Since they're light and contain a lot of stuff, don't forget to keep track of the weight of the boxes.

Packaging and leak-proofing of bathroom products

It is essential to take measures to prevent leaks when it comes to bath products such as shampoo and body wash. Close the lids tightly, cover the opening with plastic wrap, place them in a plastic bag, and then box them upright.

It is safer to pack items you are currently using the day before or on the day of the event rather than forcing yourself to pack them up. It is also effective to decide to dispose of items that are low in liquid. Clearly label the box as "Contains liquid" and "Top and bottom", and store it separately from other items.

Handling spray cans and dangerous materials

Please note that moving companies often cannot transport spray cans or flammable hazardous materials. Dispose of unused or remaining spray cans in accordance with local government rules, or transport them yourself.

You may need to use up the contents and puncture the bag to dispose of it. Lighters, kerosene, nail polish remover, etc. should also be handled with care. Checking in advance whether the carrier can transport the items will help you avoid any problems on the day.

Packing tips for different types of luggage [furniture, home appliances, precision equipment]

Furniture, home appliances, and precision equipment are heavy and complex in structure, and lack of preparation can easily lead to damage or accidents. The basics are to "empty the contents," "secure moving parts," and "manage wiring and parts."

Thorough advance preparation and labeling will ensure safe loading and unloading and prevent problems during installation.

Large furniture

Remove all contents from large furniture in advance and secure drawers and doors with tape or stretch film. Check the route of movement (entrance, hallway, elevator) in advance and consider disassembling if it will not fit. Protect corners and surfaces with protective material and prevent contact with floors and walls. If disassembly is necessary, place screws and metal fittings in small bags and tape them to the body to prevent loss. It is also important not to try to move heavy items by force and to leave it to a professional.

Bookshelves and cupboards

For bookshelves and cupboards, protecting the shelves and glass surfaces is the top priority. Remove any adjustable shelves, wrap them in cushioning material, and store them separately from the main body. If there are glass doors, apply masking tape to the X marks to prevent them from breaking, and secure the entire unit with film. Be sure to empty the contents to reduce weight and prevent damage. Prepare the items so that they can be carried upright to prevent them from tipping over when being removed.

Wardrobe and clothing case

It is standard to remove the contents from a clothes chest, but if a clothing case is lightweight, it may be possible to transport it with the contents inside. Secure the drawers with tape or film to prevent them from falling out. If you leave the contents inside, be sure to check the weight and do not put any fragile items inside. It is convenient to write a brief description of the contents on the outside of the case so that it can be used immediately after installation.

Assembled furniture

Whether or not to disassemble furniture is determined based on size and strength. If disassembly is required, put the screws and metal fittings in a small bag and store it together with the instructions to make reassembly smoother. For boards, focus on protecting the corners to prevent warping and scratches. If disassembly is not required, fix any moving parts and wrap the entire piece in film for protection. It is important to manage the furniture with the possibility of reinstallation in mind.

Packaging for TVs and other video/audio equipment

For TVs and audio equipment, use the original box if possible. If not available, use thick protective film on the screen side, focusing on protecting the corners. Remove and organize the wiring, then label and store it. As a rule, remove stands and pack them separately. Clearly label the cardboard box with "precision equipment" and "top and bottom", and prepare it so that it can be transported upright.

PC packaging

Because computers are precision devices, be sure to back up your data before packing them. Wrap the computer in cushioning material and secure it so it doesn't move around inside the box. Place peripherals and cables in separate bags and label them so they correspond to each other. For laptops, use thick screen protection and it's also a safe option to carry them yourself as carry-on luggage.

small home appliances

For small appliances such as microwaves and rice cookers, remove any internal moving parts and accessories and pack them separately. Wipe off any moisture or dirt, and protect the entire unit with cushioning material. Tape the cords to the unit to prevent them from getting tangled. Clearly label the name of the appliance on the box, and don't forget to mark the top and bottom. The key is to pack the appliances separately to avoid adding too much weight.

Preparing the refrigerator

Empty the contents of your refrigerator the day before, turn it off, defrost it, and drain the water. Clean and dry the interior, and ideally remove any shelves or cases and pack them separately. Secure the door with tape or film to prevent it from opening and closing during transport. Decide the installation location and orientation in advance so that it will be ready to use immediately after reinstallation.

Preparing the washing machine

It is essential to drain the water from the water supply and drain hoses of a washing machine. The day before, perform a test run and spin cycle to drain any remaining water. Remove and bundle hoses and cords, and if the washing machine has transport fixing bolts, be sure to attach them to prevent the drum from shaking, reducing the risk of breakdowns. Keep all parts necessary for installation together.

Precautions for gas stoves/kerosene heaters

Turn off the gas valve for gas stoves, remove them, then clean and dry them. Completely drain the kerosene from kerosene heaters and dispose of them in accordance with local government rules. Flammable and hazardous materials may not be transported by the company, so it is essential to check in advance. If you are transporting them, use an airtight container and keep them separate from other luggage.

Handling delicate items such as Buddhist altars and accessories

Buddhist altars and accessories are delicate and require careful consideration. Each small item should be wrapped and placed in a special box. The altar itself should be protected with protective material, with particular attention paid to the corners and decorative parts. If possible, it is best to hire a professional to help with the removal. Decide in advance where to install the item and provide clear instructions for delivery.

How to get cardboard and choose the size

To ensure smooth packing for your move, it's important to know how to obtain cardboard boxes and how to choose the right size beforehand. If you start without knowing how many you need, you'll end up with too many or not enough. Understanding the characteristics of where to obtain them, how to use different sizes, and how to properly estimate will help you pack efficiently.

How to get cardboard

There are two main ways to get cardboard boxes: "receive them from the moving company" or "prepare them yourself." Many moving companies offer free cardboard boxes as a contract benefit. They come in standard sizes and are strong, so it's best to check with the company first.

If you want to prepare your own boxes, you can get them at supermarkets, drugstores, home improvement stores, and online stores. The free boxes vary in size and strength, so be careful with heavy items. You can prepare without waste by combining boxes provided by companies and procuring your own depending on the purpose.

How to choose the size of cardboard?

The size of the cardboard box you choose should be based on the type and weight of the item. Small sizes are for heavy items like books and tableware, and are easy to carry. Medium sizes are more versatile and are suitable for kitchen utensils and miscellaneous items, while large sizes are suitable for lighter, bulkier items like clothing and bedding.

Be careful not to put heavy items in boxes that are too large, as this can cause the bottom to collapse or make the box difficult to carry. Using the right size can greatly improve safety and work efficiency.

Estimation methods to prevent under- or over-estimation

The key to properly estimating the number of cardboard boxes you need is to consider the number of rooms and your lifestyle.

As a guideline,

• 20 to 30 boxes for singles
• 30 to 40 boxes for a two-person household
• A family household typically has 50 or more boxes.

If you have a lot of books or clothes, the estimate will be extra. You can improve accuracy by dividing your belongings into groups in advance and imagining what will go in which box. By preparing a few extra boxes, you can flexibly respond to last-minute increases in your luggage.

What happens if you don't finish packing on the day of the move?

If you don't finish packing by the day of the move, it can lead to delays, additional costs, and in the worst case scenario, the items can't be transported at all. While the general rule is to complete your packing in advance, you can minimize the damage by understanding practical steps to take if you can't finish in time, as well as important points to note in the contract and regulations.

Why you should finish it by the day

The biggest reason why you should finish packing by the day of the move is because moving work is "strictly managed by time and manpower." If there are any unpacked items, the removal will be stopped, the work will take longer, additional charges will be incurred, or it may affect the next site and you may be refused transportation.

Packing items hastily also increases the risk of damage or loss. Furthermore, in many cases, shipping companies cannot take responsibility for transporting unpacked items, and they may not be covered by insurance. The best solution, in terms of cost, safety, and peace of mind, is to seal more than 90% of the items the day before and only seal the final items on the day of the shipment.

Solution 1: Ship at your own expense

If you have any remaining luggage, you can send it at your own expense using a courier or chartered flight. It is practical to send clothing, books, small appliances, etc. by courier at a later date. The advantage is that it can be easily handled on the same day, but it can be expensive if you have multiple boxes.

Pack fragile items and precision equipment carefully and choose a service that offers tracking and insurance. Another advantage is that you can specify when the item will arrive at your new home.

Solution 2: Use a packing service

You may be able to request additional packing services from the moving company on the day. The advantage is that professionals will pack your belongings safely and quickly, reducing the risk of damage.

On the other hand, same-day cleaning often incurs an additional charge and may not be available depending on the reservation situation. It is a good idea to check in advance whether partial requests, such as only the kitchen or only fragile items, are possible, as this will make it easier to make a decision in an emergency.

Solution 3: Carry it yourself

If the amount of luggage is small, you can also choose to transport it yourself in your own car or rental car. As a general rule, you should transport valuables, documents, and daily necessities that you will need on the day yourself. However, we do not recommend transporting large appliances or heavy items as there is a high risk of injury or damage. You should also consider road conditions and parking space. Please limit your transportation to "lightweight, small amount, non-damaged items."

Terms and conditions

Moving contracts will clearly state how unpacked items will be handled and how costs will be covered if work exceeds the time limit. In many cases, unpacked items are not covered by transportation insurance, and additional work is charged separately. Furthermore, dangerous items and items that cannot be transported cannot be handled even if they are discovered on the day. The key to avoiding trouble is to check the standard moving transportation terms and conditions and notes on the estimate in advance, and to consult with the company early if there is a possibility that they will not be able to make it in time.

Common problems and failures

When packing for a move, even a slight carelessness can lead to major stress. Mishandling cardboard boxes, labeling rules, and managing valuables can lead to problems on the day of the move and afterward. By knowing common mistakes in advance, you can avoid making the same mistakes and ensure a smooth move.

Here are some common problems and mistakes.

Cardboard is too heavy/bottom falls out

One common mistake is packing too much stuff into a cardboard box, making it too heavy and causing the bottom to collapse or making it difficult to carry. If you put heavy items such as books or tableware in a large box, they are more likely to break or fall during transport.

The solution is to stick to the basic principle of "heavy items in small boxes, light items in large boxes." Reinforce the bottom of the cardboard box with packing tape in a cross shape, or with an H-shape if necessary. The weight of each box should be "within the range that one person can comfortably carry," and be mindful of spreading out the packing.

Ambiguous labels make unpacking hell

If the labels are unclear, you won't know where to put each box in your new home, which can lead to confusion when unpacking. Avoid labels like "miscellaneous" or "various," and always list the room name and specific contents. In addition, it's important to use consistent rules for labeling items with "top and bottom," "fragile," and "open first."

Using room-specific color coding also simplifies instructions when moving in. Taking the time to mark things will shorten the work time after the move.

Put your valuables in a box and lose them

It is very common for people to put valuables such as cash, bankbooks, seals, and important documents in cardboard boxes and then lose track of them. As a general rule, valuables should not be put in cardboard boxes, and you should always keep them under your own control as carry-on luggage.

If you absolutely must put your belongings in a box, put them in a small box specifically for this purpose and clearly label it as "valuables" or "something you will carry yourself" to separate it from your other luggage. It is important to be thorough in managing your belongings until the very end to prevent loss or theft.

I can't find things I'll need right away in my new home

A common problem after moving is not knowing where to find daily necessities.

As a countermeasure, be sure to prepare one or two "priority opening boxes" and put toiletries, chargers, toilet paper, a day's worth of clothes, and a minimum amount of tableware in them. Label these boxes with a conspicuous label or color, and decide which ones to open first. Just by packing the "things you'll use first" in advance, you can make the start of your new life much smoother.

Tips for cleaning up after moving smoothly

The success or failure of packing after moving is actually largely determined by the time you start packing. By packing according to the order you'll need to open your belongings, planning the flow of traffic in each room, and completing various procedures in parallel, you can minimize the stress of unpacking. A little bit of planning beforehand is the fastest way to start your new life smoothly.

Decide the order in which you will unpack your items at your new home

The biggest tip for making unpacking more efficient is to decide the order in which you will unpack your items at your new home.

The first things to open are essentials like toiletries, toilet paper, chargers, lights, curtains, and a day's worth of clothes. These should be grouped into one or two "priority boxes" and marked prominently. Next, open kitchen utensils and bedding, and finally decorations and out-of-season items. This will help keep your life moving.

Packing your items in the order you will need to open them is an important step to reduce fatigue on moving day and allow you to return to your normal life the next day.

Create an “unboxing area” for each room

In your new home, tidying up will go much faster if you decide in advance to designate an "opening area" for each room where you will open cardboard boxes. The key is to reserve space in each room, such as the living room, bedroom, and kitchen, and open only the cardboard boxes from that room. If you open them all together, things will get scattered and the flow of movement will be disrupted. If you combine this with color-coding and labeling by room, you will be able to sort without any confusion. By limiting the area, you will be able to feel a sense of accomplishment even in a short amount of time, and you will be able to tidy up efficiently.

Moving procedure checklist

After moving, you will need to unpack your belongings and go through various procedures at the same time.

The most common examples are:

• Electricity, gas, and water service start procedures
• Internet connection
• Mail forwarding notification
• Change of residence registration
• Change of address on driver's license or insurance, etc.

If you miss any of these procedures, it can cause problems in your life, so it's a good idea to make a checklist in advance. If you can tackle each step one by one while unpacking, you can avoid any hassle after moving and start your new life smoothly.

summary

The key to successful packing for a move comes down to three things: early preparation, proper procedures, and packing with an eye to the future. Start by getting rid of unnecessary items, packing items in order of what you won't use, and managing them with labels and color coding to avoid panicking on the day of the move or afterward. By knowing how to use cardboard boxes and how to pack different types of luggage, you can prevent damage and things getting lost, and start your new life smoothly.

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