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We know that packing up your belongings and household goods is not the most pleasant task. It can be really difficult to know what to pack first, the best way to pack different items, and how to keep track of where you put what as you go about the process.
 
Whether you are preparing to move into a new home or are just working hard to declutter and organize, here are a few simple things you can do to make the packing and unpacking process much easier.
 

1. Label your boxes

 
We have found that one of the best ways to label each box is to include the room the contents were in as well as a brief description or list of the contents. That way, you can unpack the boxes by room. Just remember to label the sides and the top so that you can see the label even if the boxes are stacked. You can also number the boxes and keep track of how many boxes should be in each room.
 

2. Pack by weight

 
Be strategic about how you pack both heavy and light items. Always put heavy items, like books, in to small boxes. Big boxes of heavy items are not only harder to carry but are more likely to crush other boxes when stacked. Light items can go in bigger boxes and can typically be combined with other light objects. Fragile pieces, light or heavy, should be packed separately.
 

3.Use plastic bags for small objects

 
When dismantling furniture or shelves, put the small objects, such as nuts, bolts and screws, into a labeled plastic bag. You can then tape the bag directly to the larger, dissembled pieces. This will prevent you from losing those small but important objects.
 

4. Keep electronics organized

 
Take a quick picture of how electronics are set up and connected. Then, when you’re ready to set them up again, you can avoid mixing up the wire. This step is especially important for televisions, computers, and game systems. You can also use colored tape or labels to help identify which cords go into which ports. Also, always keep the cords and wires with the electronic item. Try to avoid packing several electronics together so that parts and pieces don’t get mixed up.
 

5. Pack dishes the right way, not the quick way

 
Did you know that plates should be packed vertically instead of stacked on top of each other? They’ll be less likely to break when wrapped in paper or foam and placed into a box vertically. Bowls and serving dishes can be packed the same way. Be sure to fill in any empty spaces with extra packing paper.
 

6. Only use boxes meant for moving and storage

 
It might seem easier and more convenient to use boxes from the grocery store or extra product boxes you have lying around the house, but those boxes aren’t made for long-term storage. Many grocery or product boxes crush or fall apart when stored for long periods of time.
 
For more packing tips and information on storage Gilbert Self Storage at 480-899-3224.