So, you’re moving to a new home. It’s a stressful and physically demanding time. You have most of the house packed up, but the garage still needs to be done. This article will help you pack your garage like a pro.
Have a yard sale
As this blog recommends, either sell, give away, or otherwise, dispose of any item that you no longer need. No point in packing and moving items you no longer use. If you have items in your garage stored in torn boxes, get rid of the boxes and make sure you buy plenty of new ones.
Dispose of stuff that isn’t safe to move, like opened paint and toxic chemicals. Take them to an approved disposal center. You can buy new supplies later.
Put similar items together
Things in a garage are strangely shaped, like rakes, brooms, and mops. You can bundle them together with tape at the handles and then wrap them in blankets and secure them again with tape.
Tools
- Put heavy tools in small, sturdy cartons, wrapped in paper.
- If you have a tool chest, pack paper in between the tools and add on top, close securely and move as is.
- Thoroughly drain all oil and gas from power tools.
- Make sure any sharp-edged tools are secured with paper and tape before packing in cartons.
Lawn and Patio Furniture
Wipe down the cushions and place in plastic bags. Wipe down the furniture frames and set aside. Remove umbrella and secure in a moving blanket. Wrap the stand with plenty of padding using blankets or packing paper.
Grill and Outdoor Equipment
Dispose of used charcoal. Remove the tank. If you have swing sets, take them down. Put small parts in coffee cans, label, and secure the lids, or else, put the parts in plastic bags and tape to their respective pieces of equipment.
Outdoor Pots and Planters
Remove any soil or dirt from pots and planters. Wrap in thick paper secured with sturdy tape.
Trash Cans
Buy new trash cans. It’s not worth it to clean and transport old ones. Many cities provide curb trash cans.
Vehicles
If you are using movers make sure they know, they can use a special auto transporter. Before moving day, be sure that:
- Cars have less than one-quarter tank of gas
- Boats are drained of gas and oil
- You check cars for leaks
Miscellaneous items
Consult movers about proper packing. If you no longer use them, or they need to be replaced, dispose of them and buy new ones at your new home.
- Riding mower
- Leaf blower
- moped
- trampoline
- hot tub
- storage shed
- above-ground pool
- satellite dish
- jungle gym
- dog house
That’s it. Now you have a packed garage, and you can rest easy.