5 Tips for Packing for Your Cross-Country Dryve

Preparing for that cross-country move? When your move date looms ever closer, anxiety can set in. That's why it's crucial to sit down and create an actionable plan for exactly how you want your move to go. Whether you've got a dryver coming or you'll be taking the wheel, we want to make your move easier. So, if you're stuck, start with these quick and easy tips for packing for that long distance move.

1 Start Packing 4-6 Weeks Early

If your move is still a few months out, mark your calendar for your "Start Packing" date. This date should be somewhere around four to six weeks prior to your move date. Once you've decided on your packing strategy, you can even mark each of those weeks with packing priorities to keep yourself on schedule.

2 Pack Least-Used Items First

When your truck arrives at your destination, you don't want to have to trudge through all the seasonal items and storage tubs to get to your dishes and shampoo. That's why it's best to pack your storage truck with all your least-used items first, moving on to regular-use, and finishing with your daily-use items in the front. Make sure to label each box with the category of items inside or the room the items belong in.

3 Use Vacuum Bags to Save Space

Soft items like clothing and bedding can take up a lot of space when folded in a box. Using storage bags with a vacuum seal are a packing game-changer. You can find vacuum bags in an assortment of sizes online and at most big-box stores, and they're extremely easy to use. All you need to do is:

Fill the Bag

Place your folded items inside the bag without overfilling it.

Seal the Bag

Zip the bag closed, running a finger along it to ensure a proper seal.

Remove Air

Remove the nozzle cap (if there is one) and secure the vacuum hose to the valve. Turn the vacuum on and watch as the bag shrinks half a size before your eyes.

Seal the Valve

Turn the vacuum off, remove the hose, and close the valve.

Now, your soft items will take up much less space in your truck. These space-saving solutions can even help you save money while moving. You can save on packing materials by using these bags as padding under electronics or between boxes to prevent them from sliding around during the drive.

4 Move Furniture Disassembled

In the flurry of moving, it can be alluring to cut corners and load furniture straight into the truck with no disassembly. In the time of flatpack furniture, however, many pieces can take up three times less space when disassembled. If the legs come off of any tables or chairs, taking them off may seem like a chore, but it will help you in the game of moving truck Tetris.

5 Pack Technology in Original Boxes

For your largest, most fragile electronics, it's best to pack them in their original boxes. Their boxes will be specially designed to keep them safe and secured in transit. If you're not the type to keep the box when you buy a new tv or computer, you're not alone, and you're not out of luck! Just type "shipping box for my [item]" in your search engine, and you can purchase a box from a third-party seller for nearly every electronic size.

All packed up? We'll take it from here.

Just hand the keys to Dryve. Once your dryver takes the wheel, you can relax knowing your items are safe and sound on their way to your new home. Experiencing packing delays or a change in plans? No worries—Dryve is flexible. Just call us at 708-297-8425 and explain your problem. We'll do whatever we can to make your move possible.

Haven't scheduled your dryve yet? Scroll up and click "Request My Dryver" to get your free quote today!