If you’ve ever been in the process of moving cross country with kids, you probably realize it’s a complex undertaking. You also know that packing up all of your belongings is only part of the challenge. That’s because, on top of everything, you need to figure out packing for kids and how to approach it. While it’s important to bring along some of their favorite toys, you don’t want to overload your relocation truck or create a big mess in your new home. Here are a few tips on how to pack toys before cross-country movers arrive at your doorstep.
How to Pack Toys for Moving Cross Country
Are you moving across the country with kids? If so, you’re probably wondering how to pack toys for moving. It can be difficult to fit everything into your moving truck, but with a little planning and creativity, you can make it work. Here are some tips for packing toys for a cross-country move.
How to Pack Toys for Moving Cross-Country- Start by Getting the Right Supplies
As important as it is to find a reliable cross-country moving company and invest in cross-country moving services for your move, finding the correct materials is necessary as the initial stage in transporting toys successfully. Spend some time getting ready and making sure you have everything you need for packing quickly. Your children’s ages, interests, and hobbies definitely have a big impact on the kinds of toys you keep in your home.
Although a good long-distance moving company can provide you with packing services, you might want to pack your kids’. Consider the overall number of toys as well as their forms, sizes, and construction. This will help you decide which packing supplies are necessary for your impending move. Here is what you basically need:
- High-quality boxes in sizes small, medium, and large,
- Sturdy packing tape to secure the lids (don’t use it directly on toys, as it leaves a residue),
- Bubble wrap, packing paper, or foam peanuts to secure the items in each box,
- Permanent markers and some printable labels for boxes.
If you’re not sure how to wrap a stuffed animal, perhaps it’s best to use some plastic wrap to at least prevent it from getting dirty.
Declutter and Get Rid of Anything Unusable
When you’re getting ready to move, it’s important to get good long-distance moving services. But before you pay for the move, you should declutter your child’s toys. This will help make the transition to a new home easier for them. Start by going through their toys and picking out the ones they no longer play with. It’s also important to get rid of any broken ones before moving. This will make it easier to pack and move the remaining toys, and it will also prevent any potential accidents.
Donate Toys to a Charity Before Long-Distance Moving
Do not waste too much time packing toys that you will never use again. Include the toy in the donation or sale pile if your kid has outgrown it. You’ll wind up saving some money on packing materials and the move overall if you donate any unwanted toys ahead of the move because a move with less stuff is often less expensive. We suggest donating nicely used children’s toys to Goodwill and the Salvation Army. You can also ask around to see if any nearby hospitals or daycare facilities require any supplies.
Separate Toys You Wish to Preserve
Do you want to save any toys that your kid has outgrown? We can understand why you might wish to keep the toys if you have (or want to have) a second child who will use them in the future. If you’re planning to leave something in a storage facility, we advise carefully putting those kinds of toys in a different box. To save time when it comes time to reuse the toy, ensure the box is clearly marked with all of the contents.
Set Aside Must-Have Toys
Are you planning a long-distance relocation? If so, you’ll probably need to move with some toys and books. After all, your children won’t be able to amuse themselves with an iPad alone. Toys that go into your relocation essentials box and bags should be kept aside before any of the stuff is placed in boxes. To prevent them from unintentionally being packed with the rest of your belongings, keep these items apart.
Organize by Categories
Sorting and organizing toys in advance makes it much simpler if you don’t know where to start or how to unpack your child’s playroom. Therefore, resist the urge to carelessly stuff random toys into a package. Instead, make an effort to group like products together. If you arrange and organize your belongings before packing them into boxes, this will be simpler. Sort the toys into various heaps according to what kind they are. Books, puzzles, blocks, plush animals, children’s flashcards, wooden toys, dolls, dollhouse accessories, musical instruments, and art tools can all be found in piles. To simplify moving stuffed animals and all the unpacking, group like goods in boxes.
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Disassemble Some of the Stuff Before Cross-Country Moving
Before relocating, all large items should be disassembled. This includes any riding toy like Cozy Coupes, jumpers, walkers, rocking horses, dollhouses, and teepee tents. Additionally, disassembling delicate wooden items is a good idea before packing them. By doing this, goods won’t break while being transported to the new house. Just make sure you pack every component with some packing paper and in its own box to prevent misplacing crucial components.
Take Some Time to Clean and Sanitize
It’s never a terrible idea to do some move-out cleaning of your stuff before transferring them to a new place, especially if you want a clean (and fresh) start at your new place. It’s also no secret that if used children’s toys aren’t consistently cleaned and sterilized, they may get extremely dirty. We advise washing toys in warm, soapy water or using baby-safe cleaning wipes to clean them before relocating.
The following video offers some tips on how to clean plushies.
Get to the Packing Phase
Local or long-distance moving with children can be difficult, but there are methods to spare yourself the upheaval. To safeguard valuables like your kids’ toys, start with the fundamentals and utilize the appropriate packing tools and methods. You might even turn packing their cherished belongings into a nice family project if you think your children may be feeling uncomfortable or anxious about the relocation.
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Soft Toys Are Easier to Handle, so Moving Stuffed Animals Will Be a Breeze
Teddies and other stuffed toys don’t need to be packed in boxes. One of the best tips and tricks might be to place plushies in big tote bags or robust garbage bags. Just bear in mind that such bags are better suited for relocating than for storing things. Soft toys should be kept in an airtight tote box or another suitable container if you intend to store them in the garage, cellar, or a climate-controlled storage facility for any length of time. This will help prevent mold and mildew damage.
Collector Items Need Special Attention
You must pack all things separately if your children have a collection of porcelain dolls, antique toys, or some other collector goods that require special handling. Before putting all of these toys neatly in a box, wrap them all tightly in bubble wrap, cloth, or other packing materials. To pack toys separately, if you no longer have the original packaging for them, you might want to use foam and other types of packing materials. Don’t overpack fragile objects in a package by putting too much stuff in it.
Label Boxes for Easier Unpacking
To make it simpler for you or the long-distance movers to unload the boxes, mark the packed crates of toys with the names of kids’ that own the toys or the room they belong in. Use their preferred colors to label the boxes with their names and ask them to sign them before the deadline. To pack toys for your forthcoming move effectively, you might need some extra packing materials and different size boxes. Make packing a family activity by using these relocation hacks to ensure that your children’s favorite toys are secured safely.
Cushion Each Box Before You Close It
When transporting action figures, dolls, portable games, and other tiny and fragile things without a box, provide extra padding with crumpled paper, bubble wrap, and towels. Use these packing materials to line your boxes, and cover any empty spots with packing peanuts or packing paper for additional support and padding.
After Learning How to Wrap a Stuffed Animal and Other Toys, Know How to Organize the Playroom After Unpacking
Organizing the playroom doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a little bit of planning and some creative thinking, you can easily get this space tidy and organized in no time. And, by involving your child in the process, you can teach them important lessons about responsibility and cleanliness.
Get Creative With Storage
If you’re looking for a way to get your playroom organized on a budget, then get creative with your storage solutions! There are tons of great DIY and creative storage ideas that you can easily implement in your own space. For example, try using mason jars to store small toys and trinkets. Or, create a “toy library” by hanging a few curtains from the ceiling and using clothespins to attach stuffed animals and other toys.
Encourage Your Child to Help
One of the best ways to get your child on board with the playroom organization process is to involve them in the process! Ask them to help you sort through their toys and decide what should be kept and what can be donated. This will help them to understand the importance of keeping their space tidy and organized.
Make Cleaning Up Fun
Let’s face it, cleaning up is not usually something that kids enjoy doing. But if you make it into a game, then they’ll be more likely to want to help out. Try setting a timer and see how quickly they can clean up the playroom. Or, turn it into a competition by seeing who can put away the most toys in a minute.
Reward Good Behavior
Finally, make sure to praise your child and give them rewards when they do a good job of keeping their playroom clean and organized. This will help to reinforce positive behavior and make them more likely to want to keep up with the good work in the future.
In the End, Packing for Kids Can Be a Fun Task
Packing for a relocation can be a fun opportunity to spend some time with your kids and get them excited about the upcoming adventure. But it can also be a bit of a challenge, especially if you’re trying to pack light. You can get everything sped up by making a list of what you’ll need. This will help you avoid overpacking and forgetting anything important.
Let your kids choose a few favorite toys or books to bring along because this will help keep them entertained during the trip. Don’t forget the basics like sunscreen, snacks, and first-aid supplies. These are essential for kids during any trip, no matter where you’re going. With a little planning and preparation and by researching cross-country moving companies, packing for your relocation can be a breeze. And who knows, you might even enjoy it!
FAQ
What Is the Best Way to Pack Toys for a Move?
Start by sorting through all of the toys and decluttering any items that are broken, outgrown, or no longer played with. Next, separate the toys by type, size, or age range, and pack them in boxes accordingly. Be sure to use sturdy boxes, packing paper, and bubble wrap to protect the toys during transport. Label each box with the contents and the room where you or your cross-country movers should place them. This will help you stay organized and make unpacking much easier.
Should I Pack Toys in Boxes or Other Containers?
If the toys are sturdy and not particularly fragile, packing them in boxes with packing paper or bubble wrap can be a good option. However, if the toys are particularly delicate or valuable, it may be better to pack them in plastic storage bins or other containers that offer more protection. These containers are often more durable and can be better suited for long-term storage. Ultimately, the best choice will depend on the type of toys, the level of protection needed, and personal preference.
How Do I Determine Which Toys to Pack and Which Ones to Get Rid of Before the Move?
When deciding which toys to pack, focus on those that have sentimental value or are particularly special to your child. Toys that are outgrown or no longer played with can be donated, sold, or given away.
What Materials Do I Need to Pack My Toys?
If you decide to let professional packers provide you with their long-distance moving services, gathering packing supplies will be their responsibility. However, if you’re against getting this type of cross-country moving service, here are some materials you may need:
- Sturdy boxes or plastic storage bins in various sizes,
- Packing paper or bubble wrap to cushion the toys and prevent shifting during transport,
- Tape to seal the boxes or bins,
- Labels or markers to clearly identify the contents of each box or bin and the room it should be placed in at the destination,
- Scissors or a box cutter to cut the packing materials and open boxes or bins at the destination.
Can I Pack Toys With Other Items or Should I Keep Them Separate?
It ultimately depends on the type of toys and their fragility. If your toys are sturdy and unlikely to break, you can pack them with your other items. However, if they’re delicate or valuable, it’s best to keep them separate to ensure they don’t get damaged during transport.
How Do I Prevent My Toys From Getting Damaged During the Move?
One of the easiest ways to protect your toys is by packing them properly. Wrap fragile items in bubble wrap or packing paper, and place them in sturdy boxes with plenty of cushioning material, such as packing peanuts or foam. Label each box clearly so that you know what’s inside, and consider packing your most valuable or delicate toys separately to give them extra protection. It’s also a good idea to avoid placing heavy items on top of boxes containing toys, as this can cause damage during transport.
Should I Pack Toys by Category or by Child?
Packing toys by category can be a good option if you have a lot of similar items, such as board games or action figures. This allows you to keep everything organized and makes it easier to find what you need when unpacking. However, if you have multiple children with different toys, packing by a child may be a better option. This ensures that each child’s toys are kept together, making it easier for them to find their favorite items once you’ve moved. Ultimately, the best approach will depend on your specific situation and the types of toys you have
Should I Use Bubble Wrap or Other Materials to Wrap My Toys?
When preparing your toys for a move, it’s important to protect them from damage during transit. One effective way to do this is by using bubble wrap or other cushioning materials, such as packing paper, or foam peanuts. These materials can help prevent scratches and other damage that may occur during transport.
What’s the Best Way to Label My Toy Boxes?
The best way to label your toy boxes is to be clear and specific, so you or your long-distance movers know here it belongs. Start by labeling each box with a general description of its contents, such as “Action Figures” or “Dolls.” Then, you can provide more details on the specific toys inside, such as “Superhero Action Figures” or “Barbie Dolls.” It’s also a good idea to mark each box with the name of the child it belongs to.
Should I Hire a Professional Moving Company to Pack My Toys for Me?
Hiring a long-distance moving company to pack your toys can be a good option if you’re short on time, have a lot of delicate or valuable items, or simply want to ensure that your toys are packed correctly. Professional cross-country moving companies have the experience and expertise needed to provide the best cross-country moving services and pack items securely, and they often use high-quality materials and techniques to protect your belongings during transport. However, if you prefer to pack your toys yourself, there are many resources available to help you do so effectively. Ultimately, the decision to hire a cross-country moving company to pack your toys will depend on your specific needs and budget.
