With a move on the horizon, you’re bound to feel overwhelmed. Where should you even start? As strange as it may sound, might we suggest getting started in the Garage?
Packing the garage is usually not the first task on your mind when how to plan when packing for a move, but it actually makes a lot of sense. It won’t disrupt your family’s routine — and when you’re ready to pack up the rest of the house, you’ll already have a great out-of-the-way spot to store moving boxes as you fill them.
Ready? Just follow our practical garage packing tips for an Ottawa move and an international long-distance move.
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Download NowDeclutter Your Garage
Streamline your task by decluttering first. Because the garage tends to be a clutter magnet, make sure you’ll only have to pack and move the things you really want.
Start decluttering early so you’ll have plenty of time to sort your belongings and properly dispose of unwanted items. For instance, you’re not allowed to throw out old paint in your regular garbage. However, the City of Ottawa will accept it on Household Hazardous Waste Depot days, or you can drop it at your local home centre.
If you find some treasure among the trash, try holding a garage sale. (Or should that read “garage garage sale”?) You could earn a nice chunk of change to help with your moving expenses.
Plan & Gather Proper Moving Boxes
To plan your packing effectively, prepare a moving checklist. Follow this list to ensure no important items are forgotten, as well as to eventually simplify unpacking and settling into your new home.
Did you save the cardboard boxes your tools and appliances originally came in? Excellent. They’re the perfect size and shape for repacking everything before you move. If you didn’t keep them, no worries. We provide a variety of high-quality moving boxes, including extra-large and specialty cartons, at reasonable prices. We’ve also got packing paper, bubble wrap, boxes and other handy supplies.
Don’t Pack These Garage Items
Sorry, but a few things in your garage should not be packed up. According to Transport Canada, movers aren’t allowed to transport anything hazardous, corrosive, flammable, or explosive. Don’t just guess what these dangerous categories might include – ask your moving company for a detailed list.
Gas operated machinery and power tools (like your lawnmower) can be transported, but you must thoroughly drain them of gasoline. Then evaporate the last traces by leaving the gas tank open 24 hours minimum before the moving truck will be loaded.
How To Pack These Common Garage Items
- Hand Tools. Small hand tools will be safest in your locked toolbox – though you might want to keep a separate “set up kit” containing basic tools to assemble beds and other furniture once you arrive at your new home.
- Power Tools. Disassemble power tools and remove batteries wherever possible. Protect with bubble wrap and pack with the heaviest pieces at the bottom of the box.
- Bicycles. Take off bike handlebars and pedals for packing. Consider having expensive bicycles professionally packed.
- Lawn & Gardening Tools. Tie large tools like rakes and shears together with twine or tape and protect with moving blankets.
- Patio Furniture. Pack cushions separately. Clean the frames and fold them up before packing, if you can.
Need A Hand Packing Your Garage?
Whether you need moving supplies, hands-on packing help, or a smooth, professional move, we’re here for you.
Call us at 613-836-4225. We’ll discuss the best way to help and give you a free estimate on the services you need.
