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Five Tips for Packing Up Your Garage

Packing up a garage is one of the most challenging moving tasks. Garages often require a lot of sorting and contain unwieldy items. However, packing up the garage for a household move can be efficiently accomplished if you follow a few tips.

1. Start Early

Many people leave the garage until last. Instead, consider making the garage one of the first areas you pack, so you'll have plenty of time to do the job right.

2. Gather Supplies

Assemble everything you need for the task. Of course, you'll want to make your own list, but here are some suggestions to get you started.

  • Broom and dustpan

  • Trash bags and recycle bins

  • Moving boxes or strong cardboard boxes of various sizes

  • Bubble wrap, preferably the eco-friendly type

  • Resealable plastic bags (for small items)

  • Moving blankets

  • Packing paper or newsprint

  • Packing tape

  • Sharpies

3. Safely Dispose of Prohibited Items

For safety or legal reasons, movers will not transport certain items. Your professional moving company can supply you with a complete list. In general, however, they are:

  • Aerosol cans

  • Fuel

  • Propane

  • Chemicals

  • Cleaning supplies

  • Paint and paint thinners

  • Charcoal

  • Fertilizer

4. Sort Non-Hazardous Items

Decide whether you want to keep or dispose of non-hazardous items. For example, consider donating items that are in good condition but that you don't want to move, such as toys. Also, consider a moving sale.

5. Pack

After you've sorted, you are ready to pack.

  1. First, assemble all your small tools in your toolbox and lock them.

  2. Wrap items with blades in several layers of blankets or eco-bubble wrap and secure the wrapping with rope or zip ties before putting them in the box. Label the box as a precaution.

  3. Bundle items with long handles, such as rakes and shovels, and tie them with rope. Then place them in blankets or wardrobe boxes.

  4. Pack power tools in their original boxes, if possible. If you can't find the original packaging, detach any removable parts (including batteries), then coil the power cord around the tool. Take a photo before you disassemble it to help you with reassembly. Then wrap the tool in bubble wrap, a towel, or blanket and place it in the box.

  5. In some cases, you'll be able to pack your bicycles in the moving van just as they are. However, if you're moving to another country, you'll have to pack and ship your bicycle. Bicycles require a special box and special care when packing.

  6. Ask your professional mover about motorcycles. In some cases, they can go into the moving van as they are as long as you remove any gas from the gas tank.

  7. Stack chairs and disassemble outdoor furniture.

  8. If you have other small items that don't fit into your toolbox, place them in small plastic bags.

  9. Label each box with "GARAGE" in big black letters. Also, note if items are fragile or potentially unsafe.

Packing your garage generally isn't the most fun part of your move. However, you can accomplish it with a bit of planning.

We can help with your upcoming move. Contact us for a free quote.