Tools:

1. Packing Materials:

   • Boxes: Various sizes for different items (medium, large, small).

   • Bubble Wrap & Packing Paper: For protecting fragile items.

   • Packing Tape: Strong, high-quality tape for securing boxes.

   • Markers: To label boxes clearly with contents and the room they belong in.

   • Tape Dispensers: To make taping boxes quicker and easier.

   • Stretch Wrap/Plastic Wrap: For wrapping furniture and large items to prevent damage or dirt.

2. Furniture Protectors:

   • Moving Blankets or Pads: To wrap around furniture and prevent scratches or damage.

   • Furniture Sliders: To easily move heavy furniture across floors.

   • Straps: To secure large items to dollies or moving trucks.

3. Dollies and Hand Trucks:

   • Flat Dolly or Furniture Dolly: For moving heavy or large furniture.

   • Appliance Dolly: Specifically designed for heavier appliances like refrigerators and washing machines.

4. Moving Equipment:

   • Ramps: To help load items from your house to the truck, especially for larger items.

   • Tie-Down Straps: To secure items inside the moving truck.

   • Heavy-duty gloves: To protect hands while lifting heavy objects.

Preparations:

1. Declutter:

   • Start by decluttering your home and getting rid of items you don’t need. This will reduce the amount of stuff to pack and move.

2. Sort and Pack Early:

   • Begin packing non-essential items ahead of time. This includes seasonal clothes, extra kitchenware, or decor you don’t use frequently.

   • Label boxes as you go (Room/Contents).

3. Create a Moving Inventory:

   • Make a detailed list of all your items, including any expensive or fragile possessions. This can help keep track of everything and assist with insurance claims if necessary.

4. Coordinate with Movers:

   • Get Estimates: Make sure you get estimates from at least three movers, and compare their services and prices.

   • Ask About Insurance: Ensure that the moving company provides sufficient insurance coverage for your belongings.

   • Confirm Arrival Time: Confirm the time the movers will arrive and ensure you’re available to guide them.