Organizing your garage ahead of a move - Moving Locally

Moving Locally: Hassle-free Relocation Services for Your Local Move

Whether you are moving locally or further afield, at some point you are going to have to tackle your garage and ensure that it is well organized. Packing your garage, for the most part, should be a simple process. However, you might also find that you have a number of items that could cause more of challenge. Follow these garage packing tips to easily pack and organize your garage ahead of your move.

1. The number one tip is to start early. When you’re planning a move, it’s always best to start organizing and sorting as early as possible to allow enough time to pack everything properly. Once you have a moving date, this is the ideal time to start planning.

2. Ideally, you should have a diary or calendar where you can outline a schedule for the moving process. Make sure the garage is highlighted as one of the priorities; don’t leave it to last minute. 

3. Before you start the whole packing process, having a major sort out will reduce the amount you need to pack. Get rid of anything that you don’t need or want and either donate the items to charity, or hold a neighborhood sale to make some extra money. When you’re tidying up, ensure you have two separate piles in your garage: one for the items you will be keeping and one for the items you will be selling, donating or disposing of. This would save you time and money, as you don’t have to carry unnecessary stuff with you to your new home.

4. Dispose of any flammable items safely, and drain fuel from any gas powered items. Smaller items can be packed into a tool box and stored safely for their easy transportation.

5. You’ll also need to take some time to sort out any items that might not be suitable for moving; most removals firms will have a list of items that are not able to carry. Get a mover to give you some advice, or look for the terms and conditions on their website for details of the items they won’t transport.

6. Also, while packing, pack similar items together in boxes instead of packing different random stuff. For example, pack your garage tools together in a box. That way, you’d be able to unpack quite easily and it saves you the hassle of having to rummage around for your stuff.

7. Next, you are going to have to start thinking about getting some boxes and packaging such as bubble wrap and re-sealable bags. You’ll also need some special purpose moving blankets, tape, regular newspaper or special packing paper and markers for labelling boxes. Don’t forget to buy plenty of fasteners for sealing bags, and use tins or small storage tubs for items like nails. If you can, obtain some cardboard boxes from local retailers, friends, families or schools, or look in the classifieds to see if anybody has got some boxes to give away. You could also put a request out on social media or on a site like Freecycle. However, you must ensure the boxes are sturdy enough for your needs.  If you’re unable to get enough free boxes or you’re concerned about their quality, most moving companies have a ready supply of boxes available for purchase.

8. It is essential to carefully pack any delicate or valuable items, so make sure you have adequate bubble wrap. Don’t be tempted to scrimp on wrap – use plenty of layers for the best protection and seal it off with packing tape to make it secure. Label boxes as you go and mark them as fragile where appropriate. It’s also a good idea to mark which way up a box should be carried/placed. Put heavier items at the bottom of boxes and lighter items on top.

9. You’ll also need to take special care over sharp objects or items that are an odd shape. Wrap sharp items up in moving blankets, pack items that are in irregular shapes into sturdy boxes and if you can, place any electrical items in the packaging they originally came in. Ask you movers about their rules for moving cars or any motorcycles that might be housed in the garage. Don’t worry too much about bicycles as these can often be placed unpacked in the removal van. While packing, detach equipment that can be detached, to facilitate easy packing and transportation. You can always arrange it back in place when you get to your destination.

10. Before moving in, determine your garage layout. Draw out your garage and how you intend to use the space. If impossible, set up shelves where you can store things instead of littering them on the floor.  Arrange items in your garage in labels, to make it easier to locate whatever you might need in the garage. Make sure there is a lot of room for your cars.

11. Either for the old garage or the new, it is advisable to get cleaning materials and equipment. The cleaning equipment used for the house should be different from the one to be used in the garage. Materials such as trash cans, gloves, brooms, scrubber and duster should be acquired.

12. Clean the old garage before moving out, and the new one before moving in. Clean shelves, tool benches and tools used in the garage. Clean the garage doors and windows as well. Sweep the floor and get rid of stains with a degreaser.

13. Sort out all repairs before moving out. Give the garage a thorough inspection to ensure that everything is in good condition. Inspect the door to be sure that there are no repairs needed to be done on it. Fill up any cracks you notice with concrete. Ensure that the garage is in the very best condition. Repair or upgrade the lighting and electrical system if required.

Thinking of making a move? Making that move should not be as hard as you think.

Let’s make your moving experience a lot less stressful for you. Contact GTA professional movers here.