Packing Your Car for a Move
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Whether you’re driving to the next town or across the country, you’ll need to prepare your car before the move. To do this, you must pack your car for convenience and keep safety in mind while loading your gear into the car.
By knowing what gear to pack, you free up a lot of space in the car, and this helps you save both time and energy on moving day. Additionally, you should equip your car with the necessities you’ll need for the haul. Some of the basics include your vehicle’s insurance papers, an updated driving license, and some emergency tools.
Whether you’re using an auto shipping service to move your car or want to drive one yourself, pack the car the right way. Here’s everything you need to know about preparing your car for a short or long-distance move.
Create a Packing List
Since cars have less available space compared to a moving truck or van, it’s important to focus on your efforts in packing essential items. This will help you determine the best way to use limited space.
Any object that you can’t shift in a moving van will be part of your packing list. Before choosing what’s necessary, segregate the items as fragile and non-fragile. This way, you can figure out which items to store in a box and the ones to pack into a bag.
Along with extra clothing, toiletries, and bedding for your journey, add a car emergency kit to your packing list. As a safety measure, pack in a first aid box, rechargeable torches, and some electronic items for the car.
Prepare Your Car for Packing
It’s a common routine to rid the car of all its dirt and grime before the relocation. Once you’ve washed your car, you should get the vehicle inspected by a local mechanic. Doing so helps you determine whether your car needs any repairs or servicing. You should also check your car’s mileage and battery life to avoid sudden breakdowns or burnouts during the drive.
Your next step is to create more space in the car. Instead of stuffing boxes and bags in the trunk, install an overhead carrier. They are a safe way to increase your vehicle’s cargo capacity. Equipped with zipper closures and strong straps, they secure your luggage against shocks and debris.
Featuring a waterproof design, these carriers are perfect for storing bulky items, such as surfboards, canoes, and more. Offering a compact storage solution, overhead carriers give you the option of carrying more than just the essentials.
Another way to use the available space is by using vacuum bags. They are perfect for storing items that take up unnecessary space. Vacuum bags help you downsize bulky items into a tight fit. You can fit the bags into tight corners of your car and free up space for boxes containing your breakables.
Use Your Car Space Efficiently
When you’re dealing with fragile items, the only mode of packing you’ve got is through boxes. Filling small boxes with reusable material helps safeguard items that need extra care. You can use clothing materials, such as bedsheets or blankets, for packing. This allows you to use space-hugging items in a smart and convenient way.
It’s often hard to place your breakable objects into the car. Most car owners tend to keep their stuff close by when they’re driving. Ideal spots are on or under the front seat next to the driver and the passenger seat behind. You can also consider the area around the spare tire and other smaller pockets of space inside the car.
Keep Safety in Mind
When you’re in the midst of packing, basic logistics can often slip your mind. For instance, don’t place items at a height or above your view from the back window. You should also never cram your side windows with boxes. Keep this area clear so that your visibility remains unobstructed while driving to your new location. When you’re loading the back of the hatch or the trunk with your stuff, make sure nothing is flammable.
While most car owners aim toward packing their cars to the brim, ensure this doesn’t override your car’s balance on the road. Avoid placing anything near the footwell of the driver’s seat. You should also not store anything below the driver’s seat. Spread heavy items in different corners of the car to maintain its balance. Not only does this maximize fuel efficiency but it also helps you save tons of gas money.
When You Don’t Want to Drive Your Car
It’s not always easy to get all your belongings in one piece to your next destination. If you don’t have the time to drive your own car during a move, an auto shipping service should be your first choice. The best auto shipping companies will handle your vehicle and deal with logistical issues that may arise during its transit. Besides cutting down on the extra mileage, your car will also stay protected against wear and tear in an enclosed carrier.
Any reputable car moving agency will provide the manpower necessary to oversee your car’s condition during the move. Before you leave your vehicle in the hands of a professional, make sure you empty out all your possessions from the car. You should also auto-lock your vehicle before loading it into an enclosed carrier.
Packing Your Car Like a Pro!
As a result, shipping your car doesn’t add any stress to your move. The next time you plan a move, find out the top car shipping services in your area and give them a ring!
