Packing for a Move? 5 Ways to Save Space

One of the most valuable ways to make your stuff more compact is to avoid moving things filled with empty space. After you unplug and clean them, you can often fill up large spaces like the inside of a refrigerator, freezer, washer, dryer, or microwave. If you will have dollies and hand trucks for heavier loads, you should also keep drawers packed.

Even unusual household objects have empty space you can fill up. Place small items inside shoes, purses, totes, the food processor bowl, or kitchen and decorative jars. In addition, pack up suitcases and any empty bins you already have in the home.

Padding material is necessary to keep things safe, but it uses a lot of extra space. Why not start by using all the padding material you already have at home?

Begin by gathering up your unused bedding, comforters, sheets, towels, washcloths, rags, and pillows. Wrap and secure large linens around furniture to protect it. Wrap dishes, glasses, and décor items with smaller linens. Use pillows to fill up space in boxes. Finish with padded clothing like winter coats, thick socks, and bathrobes.

One important guideline when packing boxes is that you should never let boxes get too heavy. Not only does this make them hard and risky to move, but it also could cause them to break.

Unfortunately, when you need to pack multiple heavy items — like books, gym equipment, or cast-iron kitchen skillets — this could mean a lot of empty space left over. Solve this problem by saving light material specifically to use when weight needs to be compensated. Light items that can fill empty space in boxes include blankets, pillows, clothing, stuffed animals, tablecloths, paper records, and rugs.

Vacuum seal bags are specialty bags that allow you to place bulky but soft items inside and remove the air to compress them. They're common for travel, but they are an excellent way to save space on many things — such as pillows, comforters, blankets, winter clothing, and thick scarves — by turning them into nearly flat packages that can be placed anywhere. Look for vacuum bags in a variety of sizes and shapes.

Finally, don't overlook the value of decluttering your home before packing. This step does take some time, so you may need to start as soon as you know you will be moving. Decluttering can also be a complex task of going through everything in the house. However, you can do as little or as much as you have time and energy for. Any items removed is space you have saved.

If you find it hard to declutter, you can use a few tricks to get it done. Some people schedule a group work day with friends or family to help out. Others schedule pickups by a recycling or junk pickup service or a charity that accepts donations. By arranging this in advance, you're motivated to get the job done in time.

Want more packing and space-saving tips? Start by consulting with the moving professionals at Christofferson Moving & Storage. We will help you assess your home's moving needs and find ways to fit your budget and your time frame. Call today to make an appointment.