Moving is always a daunting task, but it can be even more intimidating when you need to use your vehicle to transport your belongings. Fortunately, there are some tricks you can use to fit the maximum amount of stuff in your car without sacrificing safety.
Whenever possible, pack items in soft-sided containers. Your car’s interior is not a perfect cube, so you will not be able to Tetris those boxes into the space. Large zipper bags and even garbage bags will hold items securely but can be squished into small, irregular spaces.
If you are packing soft items like bedding or winter clothes, look into using vacuum storage bags. You can reduce the size of pillows and bedding by more than half by sucking the air out of the bag with a vacuum hose attachment.
Whenever possible, pack items inside other items. Decorative baskets can hold books. Plates and glasses can be wrapped in towels instead of bubble wrap. Microwave food containers can hold silverware or spices.
Be sure to pack and label a “first unpack” container. Put any items you will need immediately upon arrival inside. You will thank yourself later if you have important documents, paper plates, plastic silverware and toilet paper easily accessible as soon as you arrive at your new place.
[tweetthis]Pack items you need upon arrival in a separate container. You’ll thank yourself later. #movingtips[/tweetthis]
Use all the available space within your vehicle. Place important documents in the glove compartment, stash smaller items under the front seats and fold down the back seat, if possible.
No matter how you pack your car, make sure you are doing it safely. Know the load capacity of your vehicle so you are not exceeding what your car can handle. Ensure that all loose items are secured in closed containers so nothing spills out while you are driving. Keep enough free space so you can still adjust your car seat, work your parking brake and reach your emergency kit after the car is fully loaded. And finally, make sure you have not blocked the view out your rear window.
If you are moving into your first apartment, go through these checklists to make sure you have everything you will need.