Ah, the great move! As thrilling as it sounds, relocating to a new city is no cakewalk.
In the U.S., every year, hundreds and thousands of people move to different cities or states for work and other reasons. No matter what the reason, getting ready for a move is quite overwhelming—there’s lots of packing and planning to take care of.
According to a recent study that analyzed 2022 U.S. Census Bureau data, as well as net migration economic forecasting models and website searches for moves and moving company hires between January and June 8 of this year, Nevada holds the 13th position among the top destinations for Americans relocating from their respective states.
And when it comes to packing, the kitchen, the heart of your home, deserves special attention. Your kitchen isn’t just a place where food is prepared; it’s a treasure trove of memories, family gatherings, late-night snack raids, and holiday-cooking marathons. Ensuring that every piece of crockery, utensil, and appliance reaches your new abode safely can be daunting. After all, nobody wants to open a box in their new home to find shattered glass or dented pans.
- Organize Before You Pack
Begin with a clean slate. Empty out all your cabinets, drawers, and countertops. As you lay out the items, categorize them – dishes, glassware, utensils, pots, and small appliances. Doing this clarifies the amount and type of packing materials you’ll need. Moreover, it’s a golden opportunity to declutter. Let go of that worn-out skillet or those chipped mugs you’ve been holding onto. Moving to a new city means a fresh start, so why not start lean?
And at the same time, don’t forget to contact professional movers for their expertise and help. As you budget for your move, it’s beneficial to note that the typical cost of hiring a moving company in Las Vegas falls between $1,460 and $4,120, contingent upon the distance. This information can guide you in making informed decisions when booking a mover. Amid all these shenanigans, don’t forget to check with movers about their rules for transporting hazardous materials such as aerosols, oven cleaners, bleach, etc. For instance, if you’re looking for long distance moving companies in Las Vegas, you must ensure all your items comply with their rules.
- Invest in Quality Packing Materials
Your kitchen items deserve the best protection. Acquire heavy-duty boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, packing tape, and permanent markers. Specialized boxes like dish barrels or dish packs are excellent for delicate items, offering extra cushioning. Using old newspapers might seem economical, but they can smudge and leave residues. It’s advisable to use clean, white packing paper instead.
- The Art of Packing Dishes
Dishes can be tricky. Start by placing a cushioning layer of crumpled packing paper at the box’s bottom. Wrap each dish individually in packing paper and stack them vertically (like records) rather than horizontally. This approach minimizes breakage risks. Ensure the box isn’t too heavy, and fill any empty spaces with additional paper for cushioning.
- Safekeeping Glassware and Fragile Items
Glasses, especially wine glasses, need extra care. Wrap each glass individually with bubble wrap, securing it with tape. Always pack them standing up and never on their sides. Again, use crumpled paper to fill voids in the box and prevent movement.
- Handling Appliances and Pots
For small appliances, use their original boxes if you still have them. If not, find a box that fits snugly, wrap the appliance in bubble wrap, and place it inside. Stack pots and pans according to size, with paper in between, and place them in medium-sized boxes.
- Label Everything Clearly
Once you’ve packed a box, seal it securely with packing tape. Then, take a permanent marker and clearly label the box with its contents and its designated location in your new kitchen. For instance, “Glassware – Upper Right Cabinet.” This labeling system will be a lifesaver when you’re unpacking in your new city.
- Packing Cutlery Efficiently
When it comes to cutlery, those forks, knives, and spoons can be trickier than they appear. Begin by sorting them into their respective types. Using plastic or cloth organizers can be immensely helpful. Wrap these organizers in bubble wrap to ensure the edges of your knives or forks don’t pierce through the box. If you don’t have organizers, bundle like-items together, wrap them in packing paper, and secure them with tape. Always remember to mark boxes containing sharp knives to avoid accidents during unpacking.
- Securing Bottles and Liquids
Those oils, vinegars, and perhaps a few cherished bottles of wine need special care. Firstly, for any open bottles, ensure they are sealed tightly. Wrap each bottle individually in bubble wrap and place them in wine boxes or dividers. Always keep bottles upright and label the box as ‘Fragile’ and ‘This Side Up’ to avoid spillage.
- Preparing Large Appliances
Your refrigerator, oven, and dishwasher also need to make the trip. A few days before the move, defrost your fridge and clean it thoroughly. Secure all loose parts inside larger appliances and shut all doors and lids. If possible, use appliance manuals for guidance on any additional moving requirements.
- Setting Up a First-Day Box
In the hustle of moving, it’s easy to forget that you’ll need immediate access to certain items on your first day in the new city. Create a ‘First-Day Box’ with essentials like a kettle, utensils, plates, mugs, tea or coffee, snacks, dish soap, and a dishcloth. This will ensure you’re not rummaging through boxes just to get a cup of coffee or a quick meal after a tiring move.
Conclusion
As you prepare to transition your kitchen to a new city, meticulous packing remains crucial. By dedicating time to each segment of your kitchen, from the smallest spoon to the largest appliance, you pave the way for a smoother settling-in experience. The joy of your first meal or drink in your new space is unparalleled, and with these comprehensive packing tips, you’re ensuring that experience remains a cherished one. Best of luck on your move and the exciting culinary adventures that await!
