Category: Packing & Moving Tips

Moving to a new house can be very exciting – the beautiful decoration, better amenities, new neighborhood, and more. But, once the initial excitement is over, you may begin to feel anxious and worried over the activities involved. Moving takes a lot in planning and execution that could become stressful, and add some wrinkle lines to your face if you are not careful.

So, do you procrastinate and continue to shift your move date to avoid the stress? Absolutely not! Not when you can use these packing hacks and the following tips to help you reduce the stress of moving.

7 Tips to Reduce The Stress of Moving

1. Psych Yourself Up

First things first, get your mind up to speed. You are moving, and you have to mentally accept it and its accompanying stress. Prepare your mind for the stress of the coming weeks of packing and moving. With this, your body will handle the stress better. You can psych yourself up by giving yourself pep talks about how it’s just a relocation or thinking of all the exciting features of your new home.

2. Ask For Help

You are not superhuman! If you try doing all the packing yourself, you will be setting yourself up to age prematurely. Ask for help, even if it’s paid for, like in the case of professional movers. Ask family and friends to help you clear out your garage, storage, and rooms. With people helping out, moving can go from stressful to fun-filled!

3. Have a Plan

Do not dive into the pool of moving, head first. Come up with a strategic plan. A plan that will help you envision your moving goal. You can make it into a checklist with dates to do each item. Your plan should include when you’d start packing, where you’d start packing and how long you’ll spend on each section, what professionals to hire and when to book them, and friends to enlist for help.

4. Clear Your Schedule

Many people get stressed out when moving because they are still tied up with other engagements. So, they have to be at work or school in the morning, return at night weary, and still try to pack; this can be exhausting! If you can, it’s best you clear up your schedule, take a break from work, and focus solely on moving.

5. Start Packing Early

If you start packing early, there would hardly be any last-minute surprises. You shouldn’t wait until the two days to the day you are moving to start organizing and packing your things. An early start will ensure you do things in little bits that wouldn’t cause you to stress too much. You can order A Smart Move boxes more than a week before you move to get started early.

6. Protect Your Valuables        

Ever lost something valuable? How did that make you feel? We can tell your heart rate ran riot. You definitely do not want your heart rate to increase because you are unsure about your valuables’ safety. So, keep your jewelry, certificates, important documents, and whatever else you consider valuable close to you. You can pack them in boxes, lock them, and wear the keys around your neck, waist or wrists.

7. Get Some Sleep

We can’t emphasize this enough. You need your sleep; get it! Do not be so engrossed with moving that you forget to sleep. Do all your packing in the day, sleep at night. Your body will be thankful for the rest.

In conclusion, you don’t have to go through undue stress when moving. With these moving tips, as well as leveraging smart moving options, such as using A Smart Move plastic boxes for packing, your move can be less stressful. So, go ahead and order A Smart Move Box or call us on 858-790-8394 today!

Proudly serving the San Diego and surrounding areas, A SMART MOVE is your number one moving supply specialist!

6 Tips to Help You Relocate This Winter

When is the best time to move house? For many people, their answer would be summer, and it is so for obvious reasons – the nice weather, the holiday season, and so forth. However, if you’re considering moving during winter, you still can without much hassle. What’s more, moving during winter is less expensive than in the summer.

Understandably, one major concern you’ll have about a winter relocation is the colder temperatures. Nevertheless, your winter move can be as easy and seamless as moving in any other season. Here are some of the tips to help you relocate this winter:

1. Schedule A Moving Date

On what day would you like to move? Knowing the estimated move date would help you make better moving plans. With a move date in mind, you can begin to make arrangements for moving professionals and supplies such as A Smart Move plastic boxes and other essentials. Usually, these professionals and supplies are booked or bought ahead of time. You do not want to wait until it’s too late to get them.

2. Factor in Possible Delays

You could wake up on the morning of the day you are supposed to move, and it could be raining or a drastic change in weather conditions. Whatever the nature of the delay, factoring them into your plan makes it less overwhelming. 

3. Organize Your Stuff

Try as much as possible to have all your items and property organized neatly. One way to organize your items is to arrange them and label them accordingly in our Smart Move boxes. With this organization, settling down in your new home would be a lot easier as you can quickly access anything you want from the labels on the boxes. Plus, you’ll have less damaged, fragile items as those can be arranged separately and tagged fragile.

4. Start Moving Early

Unlike in the summer, when there are extended hours of daylight, it starts to get dark earlier in the winter. Packing and moving in the dark can be unsafe for you, your items, and the movers. So, it’s pertinent that when moving in winter, you start early.

5. Sort Out Your Utility Service

Call your utility service providers and have your utilities set up in your new home. You want to completely feel at home in your new home. It doesn’t matter that you just moved in. This is especially important because of the cold winter weather. After a long moving day, you want to retire to bed in a warm house where your heating system is functional.

6. Dress in Appropriate Clothes and Shoes

Arrange very comfortable clothes for the day you’ll be moving. Ideally, you should wear clothes in layers first, to shield you from cold. Then, be able to take them off easily when you start to sweat as a result of the energy you exert in moving boxes and items around. Your shoes should also protect your feet from cold while having enough grip to prevent you from slipping.

Want to move your belongings safely with zero risks of damage by the winter weather? Order A Smart Move boxes or call us on 858-790-8394 today!

Proudly serving La Mesa and surrounding areas, A SMART MOVE is your number one moving supply specialist!

What to Pack First When Moving

Moving houses or relocation is always an exhausting task. It doesn’t matter if you are moving just down the street or to an entirely new state, country or even continent. When relocating, you’ll be plagued with so many questions, top of which is, “Where do you start packing, or what do you pack first?” 

It’s a tough question because one look at all you’ve gathered over the years that you have to pack, even if you’re a minimalist, can be overwhelming. Nonetheless, there are solutions for all problems, and this is no exception. To help reduce the burden of moving, we’ve compiled a list of what you should pack first when moving house.

#1: Items in Storage

You most likely already have some items tucked away in storage boxes in your garage or closets. Given that they are already packed up in boxes, it’s an excellent place to start packing. You can bring out everything you have in storage, separate what you wouldn’t need in your new home from the bulk, and arrange the others in preparation for your move.

#2: Ornamental Dishes, Chinaware, and Other Rarely Used Kitchen Items

We understand you love your ornamental dishes, silverware, and chinaware. However, since you are moving, you’ll not be needing them for any immediate use. We are certain you are not planning to host a fancy dinner in the middle of your relocation, so you can pack them up first, leaving only the basic necessities. When packing these items, ensure they are correctly labeled as fragile, so they are handled with care. Also, they should be wrapped in bubble wrap or paper to keep them from breaking in the course of transit.

#3: Wall Decorations and Art Pieces

For many people, wall decorations, family portraits, and art pieces are the last things they pack. However, they are easy to forget, which is why packing them first is a great idea. We understand that these items hold sentimental values to you, and taking them off so early would make your space a lot more impersonal. The good news is, you’ll have all the space in your new home to hang these personal items.

#4: Books and Magazines

Let’s face it; you wouldn’t be reading your favorite thriller or magazine when you are swamped up in moving chores. So, since your books wouldn’t be in use while moving and they are very easy to pack, it makes sense to pack them first. If you love your books as much as we do, you will take care in packing them to keep them from damages such as tears or spillages. You can pack your books safely in our Smart Move plastic boxes with lids that keep water and dust out. Our smaller Grey boxes are ideal for this task.

#5: Out of Season Clothing Items

If it’s winter, it’s most likely your summer dresses, and flip-flops are already packed up in boxes, and if it’s summer, vice versa. With these items already packed and not in use, packing them first is always in order as you’ll not need them anytime soon. Plus, they most likely are already arranged so, starting with them ensures you don’t get overwhelmed from the very start.

Now that you know what to pack first, all you need is a moving box to pack them in. A Smart Move offers quality plastic moving boxes that aren’t only durable but also affordable. You can place an order or call us on 858-790-8394 for more information.

Proudly serving La Jolla and surrounding areas, A SMART MOVE is your number one moving supply specialist!

Zero Waste Tips for Moving

When it comes to moving houses, generating a lot of waste is almost inevitable. For one, there are all of the things you hoarded over the years, thinking you’ll need them some days, but now you have to trash because you can’t take them to your new home. Then, there are the items and equipment that need repairs you are not willing to make. Not to mention all the waste generated from the packing materials.  Given the importance of proper waste management today, how do you maintain zero waste in the chaos of moving? Here are some helpful zero waste tips for moving.  

5 Tips For A Zero Waste Move

1. Take Only What You Need

Ask yourself, how many times have you said, “I will probably be needing this,” and never got around to needing that? As humans, many of us like to hoard items, even when they are old and outdated. As you plan to move, to maintain zero waste, you should take only what is necessary. Those clothes, shoes, toys, plates, pans, and gadgets you’ve not used in years should not move with you to your new home. You’ll need the extra space to breathe.

2. Donate Items You No Longer Need

After you’ve sorted items and separated them into groups of what you still need and what you don’t, you can donate. Donation is an excellent way to maintain zero waste as items that may constitute waste to you could be valuable to the next person. For the donations, you can call up family and friends to come pick up what would be useful to them, or you could give them to charity. Items great for donation include old baby clothes, outgrown toys, abandoned electronic devices, excessive pots, and pans.

3. Sell Off Items for Cash

Well, cash is never wasted, so how about you convert your waste to cash? When you declutter, there are items you’ll see that you no longer have use for but are too valuable to give out for free. Do not feel guilty. Everyone has some of those items, and we understand. For valuable items, selling is an excellent option to maintain zero waste. If you are cash strapped and need all the money you can get, you can forget donations all together and have your old items sold off. You can do this through a garage sale or online sales.

4. Make Plans For Your Perishables Before Moving

You may not be able to finish your food before moving, and you wouldn’t be able to move them from your old house to the new one. So, what do you do with them? Well, if you are not moving very far off, you could speak to your neighbors, friends, and families to help you store your perishables in their freezers and fridges. Where that is impossible because of distance, you should consider giving them out instead of throwing them away.

5. Use Plastic Smart Moving Boxes

In place of cardboard boxes that you have to secure with tape, why not choose plastic smart moving boxes with lids? If you choose a cardboard box when moving, you’ll have to figure out ways to dispose of or store them. Either way, it would become a waste. However, plastic moving boxes such as ours are environmentally friendly, and you don’t have to worry about disposing them. When you rent our plastic moving boxes, not only do we deliver them, we also pick them up after you’re done moving, and ensure they are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized for the next use.

If you’re all about keeping the environment safe, A Smart Move boxes are definitely for you. You can place an order today or call us on 858-790-8394!

Proudly serving San Marcos and surrounding areas, A SMART MOVE is your number one moving supply specialist!

So, you’re moving to a new home! Congratulations! Whether you are moving into a rental property or found your dream home, you’re in for a new adventure!

With the inspections complete, the documents signed, and your keys in hand, it’s finally time to start making your house a home. 

But before you can start unpacking boxes and furniture, there are a few things you need to do first. And if you are hiring movers, making sure to do these things ahead of time will save you a lot of stress on moving day:

1. Check and Change Your Locks

When you buy or rent a house from a previous homeowner or tenant, you will likely need to change the locks. You don’t know who might have a copy of the key, and it’s better to be safe than sorry. If your home has a security system, make sure to also change the code.

It may be tempting to simply use the keys the previous owner or tenant left behind. However, it is always best to err on the side of caution and change the locks. This relatively inexpensive and quick process will give you peace of mind as you settle into your new home. 

Plus, this gives you a chance to personalize your home with new hardware that fits your style.

2. Make a Moving-In Plan

Once you have the keys to your new home, it is time to start making a plan for how you will move in. This includes figuring out where the furniture will go, what needs to be unpacked first, and what can wait.

For instance, you may want to unpack the essentials first, such as clothes, toiletries, and bedding. This way, you can settle into your new home with the basics taken care of. You can then start working on unpacking the rest of your belongings at your own pace.

Giving a moving-in plan to your movers is a great way to ensure that everything goes smoothly on moving day. Plus, it will help to keep you organized and reduce stress.

3. Set Up Security Cameras and Alarms

If your new home doesn’t have security cameras or an alarm system already set up, now is the time to do it. This will help you keep an eye on your property and deter any would-be burglars.

There are a variety of security cameras and alarm systems on the market, so take some time to research what would work best for your home. You may also want to consider hiring a professional to install the system for you.

4. Do a Deep Clean

Your new home may look clean, but it is always a good idea to do a deep clean before you move in. This way, you can be sure that there are no hidden dirt or dust bunnies lurking around.

A deep clean may seem like a daunting task, but it will be worth it in the end. You can either do it yourself or hire a professional cleaning service. Either way, make sure to clean all surfaces, including floors, walls, countertops, and appliances.

5. Create a Floor Plan

Once you have an idea of where your furniture will go, it is time to create a floor plan. This will help you figure out the best way to arrange your belongings in your new home. Make sure to use this floor plan with your movers to help them understand where everything goes.

Creating a floor plan may seem like a lot of work, but it is worth it in the end. A well-designed floor plan will help you make the most of your space and ensure that your furniture is arranged in a way that makes sense for your home.

Make Your Move a Breeze with A SMART MOVE

Moving into a new home is exciting, especially when you’ve taken the time to do your research and find just the right place. But as exciting as it is, moving can also be a lot of work. From packing up all your belongings to dealing with the logistics of getting everything from point A to point B, it’s no wonder that many people dread the idea of moving.

When you partner with an expert moving team, however, the process can be a breeze. In the San Diego area, A SMART MOVE has been helping people move into their dream homes for years. We offer a full range of services to make your move as easy and stress-free as possible, including:

• Moving box rental
• Packing and unpacking
• Loading and unloading
• Transportation
• and more!

Want to learn more about how we can help you with your move? Contact us today for a free consultation, or call us at 858-790-8394!

Packing can be a pain, but it doesn’t have to be. With a little bit of planning and the right supplies, you can get the job done quickly and efficiently.

The key to a successful move starts with having the right packing strategy. If you can pack in a way that minimizes the amount of work you have to do when you pack out, you’ll be ahead of the game. Let’s take a look at some key packing tips that will help you get the job done right.

The Dos And Don’ts Of Packing Supplies

Moving is stressful enough as it is, but adding the stress of packing and moving supplies can make the process even more difficult. That’s why it’s important to use the right packing supplies and eliminate anything you don’t need before you pack.

Labeling everything will help you quickly identify what goes where when you’re ready to unpack. Additionally, using boxes or bins that are specifically designed for moving will make the process much easier. 

Hiring a professional packing service can eliminate much of the stress that comes with moving. From handling packing and unpacking to moving heavy loads quickly, professional moving services can make all the difference during a big move. However, if your budget does not stretch to hiring a professional service, you can choose to simply rent moving boxes – which will not only save you time and money but help in the whole organization of your move.

Here are some tips for packing your supplies:

• Label everything. This will help you to quickly identify what goes where when you’re ready to unpack.
• Use reusable boxes or bins that are specifically designed for moving from a company like A SMART MOVE.
• Don’t overpack your boxes. This will make them difficult to move and could potentially cause damage to your belongings.
• Pack heavier items at the bottom of the box and lighter items on top. This will help to prevent your boxes from tipping over.
• Wrap breakable items in bubble wrap or packing paper to protect them during the move.
• Make sure all of your boxes are securely closed and taped shut.

Take it slow, and don’t rush your packing. This is a big job, and it’s essential to take your time to do it right. Packing too quickly can lead to mistakes that will only make the unpacking process more difficult. So take your time, label everything, and use the right packing supplies to make sure your move goes smoothly!

Tackling The Closet – What To Keep, What To Donate, What To Trash

When you are going through your closet, think about what you wear regularly and what you can get rid of. Doing this allows you to free up space in your closet and make room for new clothes.

If you haven’t worn something in a year, chances are you won’t wear it again. This means that it is essential to be selective when getting rid of clothes. If the clothing is unworn or doesn’t fit well, don’t hesitate to donate it to a local charity or shelter for someone new to love it.

Most moving companies offer wardrobe boxes, or you can rent wardrobe boxes to make packing your wardrobe much easier. Simply hang your items in the wardrobe box and re-hang them in your new location. It’s very simple and worth the investment and will help keep your clothes in perfect condition!

Fragile Items – How To Pack Glassware, Dishes, And Other Breakables

Fragile and breakable items should be packed with extra care. These items need to be wrapped in bubble wrap or packing paper and then placed in a box labeled “fragile.” Be sure to pack these items tightly and fill any dead space, so that they don’t move around during the move and reduce the likelihood of breaking. Wrap each piece individually and pack them securely in the box. It’s also a good idea to place a layer of packing paper or bubble wrap on the bottom of the box for extra protection.

As you pack each fragile item, be sure to label the box accordingly. This will help you to quickly identify which boxes contain breakables and take extra care when moving them.

Packing Electronics – Packing Computers, TVs, And Other Electronics

When packing electronics, it’s important to use the original boxes and packaging whenever possible. This will help to prevent damage during the move. If you don’t have the original packaging, be sure to use bubble wrap or packing paper to protect your electronics.

Be sure to remove all cords and cables before packing the computer. These can be wrapped around the computer or placed in a separate bag and fixed to the side of your electronic item for easy access on the unpack.

Keep your cords and cables organized by labeling them before you pack them. This will make it easy to find the right cord when you need it. Additionally, taking pictures of your electronics are set up is a good idea. This will help you to quickly and easily reconnect everything after the move.

Moving Furniture & Appliances

When moving furniture and appliances, you’ll want to take extra care to prevent damage. These items are often heavy and awkward to move, so it’s important to be careful when handling them.

Before moving any furniture or appliances, measure the doorways and hallways in your new home. This will help you to ensure that the item will fit through the opening. To pack these items, you’ll want to use furniture pads or blankets to protect them from scratches and damage.

When moving furniture, be sure to lift with your legs and not your back. This will help to prevent injury. Additionally, if the piece of furniture is too heavy or awkward for you to move on your own, be sure to ask for help.

For appliances, it’s best to disconnect them and empty them before the move. This will help to prevent damage during transport. Be sure to keep all the cords and manuals in a safe place so you can easily reconnect and use your appliances after the move.

If you are using a moving company, always ask if they will disconnect appliances for you, as you may need an expert before moving day to do this work.

Pack SMART and Save Time

Packing can be daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. With a little bit of planning and the right supplies, you can get the job done quickly and efficiently. 

Be sure to use moving boxes or bins, label everything, and pack your fragile items carefully. And finally, when it comes to appliances and furniture, be sure to unplug them and wrap them up for transport. By following these tips, you’ll be an expert packer in no time!

If you are looking to calm the chaos of your move, contact A SMART MOVE – your local moving expert. We offer a variety of services for moving short and long distances.

We also provide high-quality eco-friendly reusable rental boxes that you can use to pack your belongings safely and securely. To learn more about our services or to get a free quote, give us a call today at 858-790-8394!