How to Pack for Your Sacramento Move: Expert Tips from Professional Movers
Packing for a move is both an art and a science—one that TrustedMove, based at 6001 88th St, Sacramento, CA 95828, has perfected over decades. Whether you’re relocating across town or heading out of Sacramento for a long-distance move, strategic packing can save you time, stress, and money. Here’s a step-by-step guide filled with expert tips to help you pack like a pro.
1. Start Early—Way Earlier Than You Think
Packing always takes longer than expected. Begin at least 4–6 weeks before your move date to avoid last-minute stress.
- Pro Tip: Tackle one room at a time. Start with non-essentials like seasonal decorations or guest room items.
- Need Supplies? Check out local stores or order from packing services in Sacramento for professional-grade materials.
2. Declutter Before You Pack
Don’t waste time or money moving items you no longer need. Sacramento’s cost of living index is 140, so downsizing before your move can significantly reduce expenses.
- Donate: Use local charities like The Salvation Army or Sacramento Food Bank.
- Consign: Sell valuable but unused items at local consignment stores like Article Consignment Boutique or Home Consignment Center – Folsom.
3. Invest in Quality Packing Supplies
Cheap materials can lead to broken items and frustration. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Sturdy boxes in various sizes.
- Packing tape—lots of it.
- Bubble wrap, packing paper, and moving blankets.
- Labels, markers, and zippered bags for organization.
4. Use the Right Box for the Right Item
Professional movers have a saying: “The box matters.” Use small boxes for heavy items and large boxes for lightweight or bulky goods.
- Small Boxes: Books, canned goods, and tools.
- Medium Boxes: Kitchen items, toys, and small appliances.
- Large Boxes: Linens, pillows, and clothing.
- Specialty Boxes: Consider wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes and dish packs for fragile items.
5. Master the Art of Packing Fragile Items
Protecting breakables like glassware, dishes, and electronics is crucial for long-distance moves.
- Wrap items individually in packing paper or bubble wrap.
- Fill gaps in boxes with crumpled paper to prevent shifting.
- Mark boxes as “Fragile” and make sure they’re loaded on top in the moving truck.
6. Label Everything Clearly
This step will save you hours of frustration during unpacking.
- Use color-coded labels or markers to indicate which room each box belongs to.
- Write a brief description of contents on the box (e.g., “Kitchen: Pots and Pans”).
- Mark essential boxes with “Open First” for quick access.
7. Pack a Moving Essentials Box
Moving day can feel chaotic, so keep key items handy in a separate box:
- Toiletries, medications, and chargers.
- A change of clothes and basic cleaning supplies.
- Snacks, water, and important documents.
8. Don’t Overpack Boxes
As tempting as it is to cram as much as possible into one box, overpacking can lead to injuries or damage.
- Weight Limit: Keep each box under 50 pounds for easier handling.
- Double Tape the Bottom: For heavier items, reinforce the box with extra tape.
9. Prepare Furniture and Appliances
Large items require extra care to ensure they arrive safely.
- Disassemble Furniture: Remove legs, secure screws in labeled bags, and wrap pieces in moving blankets.
- Defrost Appliances: Unplug refrigerators at least 24 hours before moving to allow time for defrosting.
- Cover with Plastic Wrap: Protect fabric furniture and mattresses from dirt and moisture.
10. Hire Professional Packers If You’re Short on Time
If packing feels overwhelming, let the pros handle it. TrustedMove offers packing services designed to make your move effortless. Our team:
- Packs 500 lbs. per person per hour.
- Uses professional-grade materials for maximum protection.
- Ensures each item is labeled and organized for easy unpacking.
11. Handle Special Items with Care
Certain belongings require extra attention:
- Artwork: Wrap in bubble wrap and use custom crates for valuable pieces.
- Electronics: Use original boxes if possible, or wrap in anti-static packing materials.
- Heirlooms: Keep irreplaceable items like jewelry or important documents with you.
12. Prepare Your New Home in Advance
Make sure your new home is move-in ready by coordinating with local cleaning services. A clean, organized space makes unpacking much smoother.
13. Work with Trusted Movers Who Know Sacramento
From navigating Sacramento traffic to avoiding summer heat, TrustedMove has the local expertise you need for a smooth transition. We:
- Provide climate-controlled trucks to protect belongings.
- Offer reliable scheduling to keep your move on track.
- Have 95 years of experience as part of Allied Van Lines.
14. Common Packing Mistakes to Avoid
- Procrastinating until the last minute.
- Using old or damaged boxes.
- Skipping labels.
- Overloading boxes with fragile items.
15. Get Your Free Moving Quote Today
Packing for a move doesn’t have to be a headache. With TrustedMove, you’ll have access to the resources and expertise you need to make your move stress-free. Call us at (704) 594-0420 or get your free moving quote today.