Whether you are buying or selling, there is a move in your future and things are going to get hectic. While there are a few common-sense tips for making a move a little easier, such as using sturdy, clean moving boxes and packing lighter objects in larger boxes and heavier items in small boxes, organization is the key to success. One of the best ways to lessen moving day chaos is knowing how to label and organize your moving boxes when buying or selling in Phoenix.

Moving Binder

The last thing you need on moving day is to be searching for a list or anything else you need to help get through the process of packing the moving truck. Using a binder to control the stress level is a great way to organize your moving boxes when buying or selling in Phoenix. You can keep important papers, lists, and labels here until it is time to start packing. You may want to grab a clear pencil pouch for the binder to keep any small items of importance during the move together as well.

Numbering System

Implement a numbering system for your boxes. Number each box and keep a corresponding list in your moving binder that details the contents of each box. This will help you quickly locate specific items without having to open multiple boxes.

Labels

Knowing how to use the power of labels when buying or selling in Phoenix will be of enormous help when it is time to organize your moving boxes. Labels can be hole punched as close to the outer edge as possible, in order to put them into your moving binder in preparation for moving day. Be sure not to put labels on anything other than boxes, unless you are sure it is easily removable. For furniture or larger belongings, you will want to tie on labels or easy-peel labels to save precious finishes. It also would not be a bad idea to place labels on more than one side of the box, in order to quickly locate information during the rush of unloading the moving truck or unpacking.

Room-Specific Labels

Assign a specific color or pattern to each room in your new home. This way, you can easily identify which boxes belong in which room at a glance. For example, use blue labels for the kitchen, green for the living room, and yellow for the bedroom. This will make the unpacking process much smoother and more organized.

Supply Kit

You will want to keep a large, preferably clear container that will fit your moving binder along with any supplies you will need for packing and moving. This will make the job of labeling and organizing your moving boxes much more efficient when buying or selling in Phoenix. 

Fragile stickers that are red can be added to boxes that require a gentler touch. You may also wish to use color-coded stickers for every box from one particular room. you will want to have markers, packing tape, and material to fill in open spaces and to wrap any fragile items. Consider using environmentally friendly options for this purpose, such as biodegradable peanuts. 

Box Index

Creating a box index that coordinates with the labels is another helpful way to organize your moving boxes when buying or selling in Phoenix While it may sound like an overwhelming task to write down the contents of each box, you will thank yourself for the effort. Trying to remember what box you have already packed something away in can be nearly impossible sometimes. Once you get started, you’ll see that the job of jotting everything down actually goes quite quickly.

Open Me First

Keep in mind that the order of loading the boxes is important when you organize your moving boxes when buying or selling in Phoenix you will want to have special labels to denote the boxes which are of “open me first” status” and be sure these are the last boxes loaded. you will want to keep in mind what you may be in need of on your first night in your new home, in addition to the clothing and personal sundries you’ll want to have on hand. You’ll want your bedding, towels, and bathing supplies. Remember some food for staving off hunger and especially your coffee for the first morning. 

In addition to “Open Me First” labels, consider using priority labels to indicate the importance of certain boxes. For example, use red labels for high-priority items that you will need immediately, yellow for medium-priority items, and green for low-priority items that can be unpacked later.

Fragile Items

For fragile items, use special labels or stickers to indicate that the contents need to be handled with care. You can also use bubble wrap, packing paper, or foam peanuts to provide extra protection for delicate items.

Seasonal Items

If you have items that are only used during certain seasons, such as holiday decorations or winter clothing, label these boxes accordingly. This will help you prioritize unpacking and ensure that you only open these boxes when needed.

Digital Inventory

Consider creating a digital inventory of your boxes and their contents. You can use a spreadsheet or a moving app to keep track of everything. This will make it easier to search for specific items and keep your move organized.

Label Placement

When placing labels on your boxes, make sure they are easily visible. Place labels on the top and at least one side of each box. This will make it easier to identify the contents of the boxes when they are stacked or placed in different orientations.

Packing Timeline

Create a packing timeline to help you stay on track. Break down the packing process into manageable tasks and set deadlines for each task. This will help you stay organized and ensure that you have enough time to pack everything properly.

Don’t Delay

While it is advisable to begin packing as early as possible, allow yourself 2 – 3 weeks, if possible, to label and organize your moving boxes when buying or selling in Phoenix. There is a formula that you can use to estimate the size and number of boxes that you will likely need to successfully pack your home. This will also help in making proper arrangements for the size of the moving truck used in transporting your belongings.  Whatever your plan of attack, you will want to set a goal of completing the night before the move with your “open me first” boxes. You could decide to finish room by room, with a certain date in mind for each room. Otherwise, you could have a goal of a certain number of boxes per day, until you have completed your task.

Moving Day Essentials

Prepare a separate box or bag with moving day essentials. This should include items like snacks, water, toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, and any other items you might need on moving day. Label this box clearly and keep it easily accessible.

Communication

If you are hiring professional movers, make sure to communicate your labeling system to them. This will help them understand your organization and ensure that your boxes are handled and placed correctly in your new home.

By following these additional tips, you can make the process of labeling and organizing your moving boxes even more efficient and stress-free. Happy moving!

Oak Street Properties can provide you with even more hints and tips on how to label and organize your moving boxes when buying or selling in Phoenix. To learn more about how we can help you, send us a message or give Oak Street Properties a call today at (480) 637-5500 and we will answer all of your questions!