Most people moving from Vancouver (or other Canadian cities) know that proper packing is extremely important if a move is to be successful. No one wants to open cartons to find their valued possessions damaged or broken. Unfortunately packing is both hard and time consuming. Far too many people underestimate the amount of work and time involved. Here are several packing tips that will help you manage this task as stress free as is possible:

Plan Ahead

If you going to be doing your own packing, then it is imperative to leave enough time to do the job properly before moving day. Be realistic as to how much you can get done. If you plan ahead you can break the job down into stages. This will ensure that you aren’t totally exhausted or that you don’t end up just throwing things into cartons and hoping they arrive safely. Remember it takes longer to wrap and pack china, crystal and collectibles so make sure you don’t leave packing these things until the last minute. By planning ahead, you can pack items that you don’t need on a daily basis days or even weeks in advance of your move. Things from the basement or garage can usually be packed well in advance of the move.

Use the Right Materials

The days of stopping by your local grocery store to pick up free moving cartons is long gone. Actually, this is a good thing because those cartons were generally not sturdy enough to withstand the rigours of moving. Instead if you want to make sure your belongings are properly packed the first step is to only use professional quality packing materials. This includes packing paper, bubble wrap, size and type of cartons for specific contents, packing tape and markers. You can purchase these materials directly from your moving company, moving supply depots or any of the big box stores. If you are planning on renting a truck for your local move, then those rental companies usually also sell a variety of cartons.

Use a Specific Carton for Specific Goods

Use the right carton for the type of item you are packing. Purchasing triple walled china cartons is one of the best purchases you can make if you want to make sure that your breakables arrive at destination in pristine condition. If you have artwork or mirrors, then telescopic mirror cartons are a worthwhile investment.  Wardrobe cartons with hanging bars will make packing clothes out of your closet a breeze. They also come in handy after the move as a place to store out of season things. Use lots of packing paper for the packed items and to provide cushioning in the bottom of cartons. Never overpack cartons from a weight perspective so don’t use large

cartons for heavy items like books or tools. Remember, your cartons will be stacked/tiered on the truck so it is important that they not get crushed so make sure cartons are totally packed and carefully sealed.

Labelling and/or Marking

One of the secrets to an organized move is having cartons placed in the right room.  The best way to ensure this is to either use labels or markings on the exterior of cartons that clearly identifies where they are to be placed. Adding a list of contents is a plus when it comes to unpacking as well so critical items in each room can be unpacked first.

Having the Mover Do the Packing

If you really want some or all of your possessions properly packed and to avoid the work and stress involved, then the best choice is to have Premiere Van Lines to handle the packing for you. They will send a team of experienced professional packers to your home to get everything ready for your move. If budget is a deterrent, then consider having Premiere at least pack your most fragile or valuable items.

For more information about packing for your move and a free no obligation cost estimate, contact your Vancouver office at 604-530-2221 or your local Premiere Van Lines office at 1-877-671-6683.