Figuring out how to unpack after moving to or from Toronto, ON or elsewhere in Canada can be a big job. Where will it all go? When will you have time to get it done? Moving disrupts your normal routine and the sooner you can get at least the important stuff unpacked, the sooner you’ll feel like life is getting back to normal. If you’re not looking forward to this part of the process, these tips for how to unpack after moving should get you going in the right direction.
Plan ahead of time
While you’re packing remember that eventually you will have to unpack it. Thinking ahead can save you work later.
Move clothes on hangers – Use wardrobe boxes with a bar inside for hanging clothes. You could also separate your hanging clothes into groups of 10 or less, use a twist tie or rubber band to hold the hangers together and cover with a drawstring garbage bag. You can then fold them into boxes, stack them or hang them during transport.
Items used together should be packed together – For example, if you need a plate, you’ll need silverware to go with it, so pack those items together.
Don’t pack it if you don’t have to – Some items can be moved without having to pack every detail. A small desk with one small drawer and a few office supplies won’t be significantly heavier with the full drawer left in. Just make sure everything can be secured well enough to prevent spills and breakage.
Use technology to stay organized – A smartphone app that keeps track of the location and contents of your boxes to make unpacking easier and more efficient.
Make adjustments to compensate for unpacking time – Eat on paper plates or order take out for a day or two to give yourself time to find things.
Unpack the important items first
If you have lots of furniture to assemble, have a big move or a family, unpacking everything all at once may be impractical or even impossible. Don’t stress out. When deciding how to unpack after moving concentrate on the most important items first. The following works in most situations.
Bring in cleaning supplies – Even if you’re not cleaning the entire place, you will want at least some basic supplies available to handle any mishaps or clean certain areas before you put your stuff away.
Unpack the bathrooms and kitchen first – During the day, you or family members will need to use the kitchen and bathroom. In the kitchen, some plates, silverware and glasses should be unpacked first or have one box with disposables for immediate use. The bathrooms will immediately need toilet paper, soap, and a towel or roll of paper towels. Important personal care items should also be included. Some examples are bandages, emergency medication, and shower supplies.
Assemble beds and put sheets on them – You won’t want to do this at the end of a long day. Do kids’ beds first.
Other tips
Get rid of empty boxes – Have an out of the way place for boxes until you can take them to the recycle bin. You’ll have more room to walk and work.
Put things where they belong – Put items in drawers, cabinets or on shelves as you unpack. It restores order faster.
If you don’t want to worry about how to unpack after moving, hiring Toronto movers that offer packing services is a great option. Tender Touch Moving & Storage can make your local or long distance move go smoothly from start to finish. Contact us today to learn more about our services and to get a free Toronto moving quote.
