A successful move isn't just about packing everything you own away into neatly boxes! Oh, no — take it from the removal experts — it's about much more than that. It's about knowing exactly what's in each box and where it belongs in your new home. Proper labelling will not only save you heaps of time but will prevent arguments and frustration when it comes to unpacking, too.
You might have heard about us talk about the importance of labelling in some of our previous packing guides, but we felt it deserved its own space. Yes! It really is that important. But before we share our secrets, let's take a look at what you'll need before you start.
What you'll need:
Here's everything you need to pack like a pro!
Essential:
Boxes
Labels
Marker Pen
Desirable:
Fragile/heavy/arrow stickers
Coloured marker pens
Saint Removals pro-labelling tips
Without further delay, let's get into the nitty-gritty of how to label boxes for moving, shall we?
Expert tip #1: Use a Colour-coding system
Assign a unique colour to each room in your new home and then use coloured markers, tape, or labels to match the rooms to the boxes. For example, blue could represent the kitchen, pink for the living room, and so on. This system makes it easy for you and your movers to quickly identify where each box belongs.
That being said, if you don't have colour coded pens you can just as easily write the name of the room on each box — granted it may not look as pretty but it will do the job just the same.
Bonus tip: Write the destination room on multiple sides of the box so that it's easily visible regardless of how the box is oriented.
Expert tip #2: Label fragile Items clearly
Ok so we cannot emphasise this one enough, if a box contains fragile items, indicate this clearly with the word "Fragile" written in large, bold letters. Better yet, get your hands on some fragile tape so it's really unmissable. If you don't have any special fragile stickers or tape that's fine, just do what you can to clearly indicate to your movers that the box contains fragile items.
Don't forget, when packing delicate belongings you should use fragile-specific packing materials like bubble wrap and protective paper to cushion your things. Need a little help packing these kinds of items? Our helpful guide has got you covered.
Expert tip #3: Use arrows
When it comes to labelling your moving boxes, another excellent hack is to grab some arrow stickers and stick them onto your boxes. Or, again, you can simply draw the arrows on with your trusted markers.
There's nothing worse than loading or unloading a box the wrong way and finding items have become mislodged during transit or you can't get to them properly because the box is upside down.
Expert tip #4: Indicate clearly which boxes are heavy
Whether you're enlisting the help of professional movers or doing all the heaving lifting yourself, it's really important for everyone's safety that you make it clear when a box is heavy. Not doing could not only cause an injury but may also result in the box being dropped suddenly and items getting damaged along the way.
So, you know what's coming! Grab those heavy stickers or get scrawling those words on the side of the box in your best Sharpie!
Expert tip #5: Prioritise essential boxes
When you get to the other side of your move, there's no doubt you'll want access to the essentials like the kettle for that first cuppa in your new place. So when packing, label a few boxes as "Essential" and throw in all those items you'll need immediately upon arrival. This could include items like toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, and basic kitchen supplies.
If you can, mark these boxes with a bright colour or a special symbol to ensure they stand out.
Looking for some more packing tips? Our ultimate packing guide holds the answers to questions you didn't even know you needed the answer to.
Expert tip #6: Create an inventory
Those of you who are really organised will love this labelling tip! Before sealing your box, make a list of all the items that are in there. This could be a brief outline or a detailed inventory. You can then stick this to the side of the box.
Why? Because then you don't need to rummage through every single box marked living room just to find that one book you're looking for.
Expert tip #7: Leave it to the packing experts
We're pretty sure you knew this one was coming, but we've got to put it in here nonetheless. Hot tip number seven — simply leave it to the removal experts. If the above advice seems a little complicated, overwhelming, or you just don't have the time (or the inclination), then why not call in the packing and removal experts themselves?
At Saint Removals, we have a combined 25 years of industry experience. There's nothing we haven't packed, labelled or shifted, so it's safe to say we're pretty superb at it. Still need a little convincing? Our glowing customer reviews are sure to back us up here. And if they're not enough, here are 11 compelling reasons why we're the right guys for the job!
Start your Saint Removals journey today!
So, what are you waiting for? Get in touch with us today and let us take care of all your labelling and packing needs. You can sit back, relax, and focus on the more important parts of moving house, like what colour to paint those lovely new kitchen walls of yours.