Determine What to Pack in Your Car
Knowing what to pack in your car is essential for packing your car well on moving day. Cars have significantly less available space than moving vans; knowing what should be in your car will help you determine how best to use the limited space on offer.
If you're moving a significant distance, such as to another state or country, your car should contain items you'll need on your trip. These will include clothing for the journey, snacks, and toiletries. Many people also pack electronic items like personal video recorders and computers in their vehicles because their internal components are so sensitive. Unless they're using pet transport services, pet owners should also reserve space for the fur-babies that don't normally travel with them and items they'll need.
Make Use of All Available Space
Car space might be limited, but there's probably more at your disposal than you realise. You can collapse the rear seats of hatchbacks and many other vehicles to maximise the space in your boot. This is ideal for people who don't have full car loads of passengers. The wheel wells around the back of a hatchback are also ideal for storing backpacks and bags of clothes. Stash some stuff in the space around your spare tyre, but make sure you don't overcrowd it in case your tyre goes flat. Small items can also be placed around the feet of passengers without impinging on their comfort.
Think Beyond Boxes
Your moving van is probably full of boxes, but when you're packing your car there are often more efficient ways to transport your stuff. Boxes can be bulky, so think outside the square. Bags are a great option, because they're flexible enough to squeeze into small spaces. Vacuum storage bags that can shrink your items down are even better. You might also consider purchasing an overhead luggage carrier for storing items outside your vehicle.
Protect Fragile and Valuable Items
Simply packing your fragile and valuable items in your car where you can keep an eye on them won't protect them on your journey. Wrap fragile items in clothes, towels, or bedsheets for cushioning on the drive. If you'll need to stop overnight or at restaurants on the way to your home, make sure valuable items are kept out of sight. Electronics, jewellery, and other desirable items are magnets for thieves, so hide them under other less attractive goods.
Pack Essential Items First
Even with thorough planning, it's easy to overestimate the amount of space available in your car. That's why you should always pack your essential items first.
Some people may argue that you should pack those essential items last, as this means you'll have the easiest access to them during your journey and once you arrive at your new home. However, if you've misjudged the space available you'll need to start packing from scratch to ensure those must-have items make it into your car. That takes time you can ill afford on moving day. You can solve the access problem by packing all the items you know you'll need in one central location, such as the front passenger's seat or, if all seats are occupied, one side of the boot.
Keep Your Car Balanced
As petrol prices continue to rise, it's important that you pack your car right to maximise your fuel efficiency. Spread heavy items throughout your car to keep it balanced. This will help your car run smoothly and use less petrol. This could make a massive difference to your fuel bill, especially if you're travelling a significant distance.
Keep Your Windows Clear
In your desire to cram as much as you can into your car, it can be easy to forget about the logistics. However, it's crucial that you don't compromise your visibility by packing above your back window. Keeping this space clear will make sure you can see everything that's behind you while you're driving to your new home.
You should also make sure not to obscure your side windows. Your side mirrors shouldn't be relied on completely, as they won't show if cars are sitting in your blind spots. It's much safer to lay clothes on top of your load rather than hanging them near your windows. If you want to transport a lot of clothes in your car and you're worried about the wrinkles, pack them in special hanging boxes.
If you're tempted to sneak a few extra items in, the thought of damaging your car, your possessions, not to mention you, your passengers, and other motorists in an accident should be enough of a deterrent.
With these tips in mind you can feel confident you're taking the right items in your car, that you're packing them efficiently, and they'll arrive at your new home safely.