Fundamentals: Tasker Tips on Packing and Unpacking

We have many seasoned Help Moving Taskers who regularly move Clients’ belongings to their new homes. But what about that initial first step, packing everything up? And what happens when the items are moved, and the Client needs some help unpacking all those boxes?

Packing and unpacking properly before and after a move are two of the most important steps in feeling in control during a move. Well-packed items will make Help Moving tasks a breeze—and can make the unpacking process stress-free.

We put together some useful tips below to help you level up your packing and unpacking skills in order to tackle every step of the process.

Before the Task: Questions to Ask Your Client

• How many rooms will need packing up? 
• Will you need me to help unpack once the boxes have been moved?
• Do you want your items organized by room, or do you have any other directions?
• Have you already purchased packing equipment—boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, and tape? If not, would you like me to purchase that and expense it as part of the task?
• Do you have original boxes for your larger electronic items (i.e. TVs, computers, and stereo equipment)?

Tips on Wrapping Breakable Items

• Pack all breakable items over a padded surface.
• Use packing paper or bubble wrap for fragile items—or both. Small and fragile items should be wrapped separately. 
  • ProTip: Be generous with the padding!
• Pack plates between layers of packing paper or bubble wrap before stacking them in sets of four. Then wrap each stack.
• Wrap glasses separately, and fill each one’s empty space with packing paper or bubble wrap.
• Wrap small picture frames separately, and separate each one with padding before stacking. For large frames, wrap them in bubble wrap and move separately.
• Kitchen goods can be a pain if they spill. Pack them in separate boxes, and make sure to mark boxes with liquids as fragile!
• Set aside any items that Clients might want to take with them separately (e.g. pot plants).

Packing Boxes 

• Make sure you place 1-2 inches of packing supplies at the bottom.
• For boxes with fragile or heavy items, make sure all sides have cushioning.
• Pack the heaviest items first, and fill in some of the space with lighter items (but make sure they aren’t crushed).
• Check frequently to make sure the boxes aren’t too heavy to lift.
• Label each box clearly with a pen or Sharpie as you pack them. 
• Be sure to mark “fragile” on boxes with breakable items, and indicate which way the box should be carried.

After packing is complete, you’re on to the next step: doing the actual Help Moving!