Don’t Pack These Items For Your Move

Amid the stress of packing, it’s all too easy to start throwing belongings in boxes without much thought. However, if you slice your hand on a box, you’ll be glad you kept the first-aid kit handy. In other words, there are certain essentials that should be readily available throughout your move.

Here are some examples:

1. A first-aid kit. You never know when an accident will happen, so keep a first-aid kit on hand. Include items such as bandages, antibiotic ointment, etc.
2. Medications.Don’t run the risk of losing prescription medications by packing them. Likewise, keep over-the-counter drugs ready in case someone has a headache, upset stomach or allergies.
3. Important keys, codes and paperwork. It’s obvious to keep keys to your current house and your new house out of boxes. Likewise, ensure security codes, alarm passwords, and keys to back doors or private rooms are available, too. Add to this stash any personal identification documents, insurance policies or other paperwork that you can’t risk losing.
4. Valuables. If you own precious items such as jewelry, heirlooms, etc. that are irreplaceable, it only makes sense to keep them with you on moving day. Tuck them into your vehicle and rest easy that you know where they are at all times.
5. Hazardous materials. For your safety, do not pack flammables, paints, ammunition, fertilizers or other hazardous materials. They only increase the risk of damage happening to your goods during transport.
6. Moving tools and gear. To move some furniture, you may need to disassemble and re-assemble the pieces. Be prepared with the basics such as screwdrivers, hammers, wrenches, etc. — as well as moving tools such as scissors, garbage bags and box-cutters.
7. Drinks and snacks. Moving is a lot of work, so don’t make the mistake of packing all your drinks and snacks. Instead, stock a day’s supply of easily accessible water, sports drinks, granola bars and other items for your crew. This can help everyone maintain their energy levels all day.

Whether you’re moving with or without the help of household movers, what you don’t pack is just as important as what you do. With that in mind, follow the above list.