Moving/Packing guide - Lincolnshire, UK - BSJ Holdings

Planning is essential for a streamlined move, so make sure you start as early as you can to keep the job as simple as possible. 

First thing's first

De-clutter

Moving house is the perfect time for a big clear out. This will allow you to see exactly how much you have to pack and saves you from packing things you no longer need or want in your new home. Most importantly, it's never too early to start, so even if you do not wish to begin packing before the exchange, a good clear out can help get you organised so you'll be more prepared when the time comes. Begin in storage areas like the attic or basement where you probably have belongings you never use or don't even realise you still have! 

If it's likely you'll have a lot of items to dispose of you may consider hiring a skip, this may seem a little excessive but it's amazing how piles of old junk can accumulate. Hiring a skip also provides the convenience of not having to work out where to dispose of your unwanted possessions or how to get them there. 

Don't forget that charity shops will be happy to take old clothes and possessions as long as they're clean and in good condition. Most shops will be happy for you to drop off donations during normal opening hours but it's always wise to phone and check first. 

Many charities will also be happy to take furniture which is no longer needed; national charities like Oxfam will often be willing to pick up furniture depending on the location of your current property. It is also worth having a look in your local paper for any charities looking for furniture donations.  

Getting organised

The best way to avoid stress is to make sure you know exactly what you need to have packed and when. Sit down and work out the best way to begin and try breaking up the task by packing in stages, beginning with the things you use least. This is one of the easiest and most effective ways to help you keep on top of everything. 

At this stage, it's also a good idea to write a comprehensive list of all things you will need easy access to on the day of the move, these can be packed in a hold-all or suitcase on the day before the move and taken with you as you travel to the new property. This can avoid any problems associated with delayed removal vans etc. 

What you'll need (Packing materials)

You can't start packing things up without the necessary materials. Whatever you're packing there are some basic materials you really can't do without 

• Marker pens
• Packing tape
• Strong boxes
• Bubble wrap
• Newspaper, and / or wrapping paper and tissue paper
• Wardrobe cartons with hanging bars
• Sealable plastic bags e.g. sandwich bags
• Self adhesive labels  
  

Make sure you have plenty of supplies; packaging materials are far, far cheaper than replacing broken belongings.

To help make the packing process as hassle free as possible, at BSJ Holdings we offer a range of packing materials at realistic prices which can be delivered direct to your door.  

Getting started  

Now everything is organised and all materials bought, it's time to get packing. Here are a few tips to bear in mind. 

• Use good quality boxes and always make sure you reinforce the bottoms with packing tape to avoid any disasters.  
• Clearly label all boxes and make sure you include which room they belong in. You may consider getting labels in different colours or using coloured markers so that you can tell instantly which boxes belong to which room. 
• Make sure you only fill boxes to a weight which you are comfortable carrying; it may mean you need a few more boxes but trust us; this is a better option than a slipped disc.
• Always remember to secure the tops of boxes with packing tape.
• Help your removal company by clearly labelling boxes containing fragile items.
• Pad the sharp corners of anything which won't be boxed to avoid them damaging other items.    
• On the day before the move pack a snack box containing food which does not require any heating, tea, coffee, sugar, a kettle, heatproof plastic or paper cups and a large packet of biscuits. Make sure this is one of the last things to be packed in the van and one of the first things off. Trust us, you will be pleased you did. 
• Try to place anything which is kept outdoors and is going to be moved e.g. garden furniture to a shed, garage or even inside the day before the move. This avoids the problem of loading wet furniture in the van alongside all of your clean, dry belongings.   
• When packing anything which runs on batteries make sure you disconnect them to stop the appliance turning itself on during transit.  

Packing guide 

Clothes

To avoid hours of unnecessary washing and ironing we recommend you invest in a few wardrobe cartons with hanging bars. These temporary wardrobes provide an inexpensive way of keeping clothes straight during transit and are great once you've moved in as you'll still be able to find your clothes while you're sorting out everything else. 

Books

These are one of the heaviest items you will have to pack, so use small boxes to keep the overall weight down. Books are best packed flat, alternating the bindings so that they stack evenly. Protect the covers of any treasured books by wrapping them in tissue paper or wrapping paper (not newspaper as the ink may leave smudges). 

Breakable items

Make sure all items are well wrapped in bubble wrap, tissue or wrapping paper, then use newspaper to cushion wrapped items to avoid ink smudges. Pack loosely into boxes which are clearly labelled as fragile. Do not make the mistake of cushioning and padding the sides of the boxes well and forgetting the top and bottom, a firm up-and-down jolt could do a lot of damage. 

Furniture

Disassemble large items like tables as much as possible so space in the removal van can be used as efficiently as possible. Remember to place all screws, nuts and blots in a sealable plastic bag and fasten to the underside of the item so that they don't get lost. 

Pad furniture out with blankets or old linens; make sure the padding is secure but avoid using tape directly on wood or painted surfaces as it may damage the finish.

Drawers should be filled with light, wrapped items or clothes; secure the drawers from opening when moving, but again, avoid using tape. 

Electrical appliances

Always check the manufacturer's manual for any special moving guidelines. When possible, pack the appliance in its original packaging with any necessary protection e.g. bubble wrap. 

Secure any movable parts or opening doors and disconnect any detachable wires or batteries etc. Tape electrical cords to the back of the appliance and protect the plug with bubble wrap. 

Dishes and glassware

Individually wrap each piece and pack them in sturdy boxes using plenty of cushioning, tea towels are ideal. Plates should be packed edge down as opposed to flat. 

Cutlery

As sharp knives can easily cut through cardboard and injure the person carrying the box, wrap bundles of cutlery and clearly label so when it comes to unpacking, the individual knows to proceed with caution. These can then be placed inside a bread bin or biscuit tin etc to keep them secure. 

Carpets and rugs

Carpets and rugs should be rolled up and secured with tape or rope. 

Mirrors

Carefully wrap, making sure to pay particular attention to padding the corners. Small mirrors can be packed on their sides within sturdy boxes, for larger wall mirrors which will not fit within a box it is a good idea to cover them with cardboard instead. 

Transport guide

There is little point taking the care and attention to detail that ensures good packing if you do not put equal effort into considering how to transport your newly packed belongings to your new property. 

If you have not got a lot of possessions to move, for example if you are moving from a furnished flat, then you may consider the D.I.Y approach to removals by hiring a van. Ensuring you get the right van is essential; too small and you will end up making multiple trips between properties costing you fuel and time, too big and the likelihood is that you will face problems when parking. 

Before choosing to hire a van and move everything yourself there are some factors you should take into consideration:

• How much cash will you save?
• What is the distance between the two properties?
• How much will you have to transport?
• Are there items which need transporting which are too big/heavy for you transport without help, professional or otherwise?
• What is access to your new property like? (Is there plenty of room to park? How narrow are the hallways? Will you be able to carry large, heavy furniture upstairs?)
  

If you do decide to take the D.I.Y approach, remember to check with your insurance company as to whether your home contents are insured during the move.

For most property moves we would recommend hiring a professional removal company. This may (although not always) be more expensive, but the levels of anxiety and stress this can alleviate make it more than worthwhile, especially when you have lots to move. 

It is essential for your peace of mind that you choose a reputable company you feel confidant will deliver a high quality service. After all, you will be trusting them with your life's possessions. Take your time choosing a removal company, but don't forget to have one booked at least 2 weeks before the move to prevent the worry of whether they will be available.    

At BSJ Holdings we have the expertise to ensure a smooth and professional move and are proud to offer a quality removal service.

One of the most stressful aspects of moving home is the worry that you may have to leave your current home before your new property has been vacated. This can be especially concerning when part of property chain. With our excellent storage facilities BSJ Holdings can cater for all eventualities when it comes to moving home, allowing you the peace of mind that whatever happens your belongings are safe.

Simply phone 07836-527576 or email us with your requirements and we will provided a no obligation quote. 

Whatever your decision with regards to transport, there are some points to bear in mind when it comes to the actual move. Even if you use a removal company, ensure the following:

• The floor of the van is both clean and protected
• That the van is efficiently loaded so that all of your possessions are secure and can not move around and get damaged.
• That your possessions are insured throughout the move either by your normal home contents insurance, by the removal company or through an independent insurance policy

We hope you have found this guide useful and wish you smooth and hassle free relocation!