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Unless you’re the world’s greatest planner, you probably have food left in your cabinets and fridge when moving day rolls around. Here is your complete guide to boxing up your kitchen for your move. Read the tips below for storing, packing, and donating food when you’re moving to a new home.
Expired? Throw it Out
Throw away all of your expired food. Throw away anything that is about to expire. You should even get rid of stuff that you haven’t used in more than six months. Chances are, you won’t need it. Don’t bother to pack and transport those dusty canned goods from the back of your pantry. Why spend time packing and schlepping boxes of stuff you won’t use? Plus, you don’t want to accidentally end up taking any pest friends to your new place.
Seal Your Staples
If you have open boxes of flour and sugar, transfer them to sealable plastic containers that won’t spill. Place masking tape around spice containers so they won’t fall out while you drive. Make sure your products get stored correctly so that you won’t have to waste money on restocking your cooking staples right after you move.
Choose the Right Sized Boxes and Label Carefully
Canned goods can get heavy, so pack them in small or medium sized boxes. Lighter items can go in larger boxes. This prep makes a huge difference in the amount of effort you make, and how much your movers might charge you.
Make sure you note which boxes contain perishable foods. Each container should be labeled “kitchen” with a list of what it includes, making it easy to set up your new pantry.
Pack Your Own Wine, Spirits, and Breakable Items
Even if you hire a moving company, they usually won’t transport your alcohol. The safest way to do so is in cardboard boxes from the liquor store. Use newspaper and bubble wrap to make sure your favorite vintage doesn’t get broken.
Remember that glass bottles and jars are likely to break during the move, which will create an incredible mess. Use up your good olive oil or donate it to a foodie friend before you hit the road.
Unplug the Fridge
If you have a freezer full of frozen food, start thawing it out and cook what you can in the weeks leading up to your move. Invite your friends over for the last dinner or bring some dishes to work.
Don’t buy additional frozen items, as they may go to waste. Then, make sure you’ve wrapped up your need for the refrigerator about two days before the move. If you’re bringing your fridge with you, unplug the appliance so the freezer has time to defrost.
Plan ahead and budget so that you can order out for a day or two rather than shopping and cooking. That way, you can make sure your kitchen is packed and ready to go long before the movers get there.
Set Aside Snacks
You’ll be hungry on moving day, and you won’t necessarily want to rely on fast food. Moving is stressful and by the time you look up at the clock, you’ll realize you’re suddenly starving. Either buy snacks beforehand, or pack a bag with staples like granola, fruit, and PB&J so you’ll be healthy and energetic during the big move. It’s especially important to have a snack bag ready to go if you have children.
Are You Ready to Move?
If you’re moving within any of the five boroughs, Long Island, or Westchester, give Q’s Moving Corp. a call at 888-951-MOVE for a free quote or visit our website to request more information. We are available around-the-clock to answer your questions.
