Packing to Move: Should You DIY or Hire Pros?

Relocating to a new home, interstate or otherwise, is exciting and stressful at the same time. And one of the reasons most people would rather avoid it is the hassle of packing. Why stress yourself when you can always hire household packing services? The choice isn’t always as straightforward as deciding between one and the other. 

Self-Packing vs. Professional Packing Services

Either option has its share of pros and cons, and understanding each one will help you make an informed decision. 

DIY Packing 

• Self-packing is usually affordable since you won’t be paying for any professional services, only packing materials. You also control what and how much to pack, and to pack at your own pace. 
• Packing DIY, however, can be time-consuming and more stressful if you keep procrastinating up to the last minute. 
• There’s also an increased risk of damage due to improper packing, handling, and hauling. 

Professional Packing Services

• Leave the packing to the pros, and you’ll have more time to do other important stuff, such as arranging your utilities and internet before you move in. 
• No need to stress over the entire packing process, and all your belongings will be packed with care and using quality materials. 
• Given a removalist’s knowledge and skills, all your stuff will be protected from damage and improper handling. 
• Professional packing services tend to be expensive, and you have less control over how your items are packed and organised for the move. 
• Many find searching for trustworthy packing service providers a hassle as well.

All these beg the question, how do you decide which one to choose then?

Consider Your Budget 

• Can you afford to hire professional packers? Otherwise, do it yourself and follow simple tips for a less stressful house move. 
• A lot of factors drive up the overall costs of relocation, not just packing. If the total number isn’t a major concern, hiring pros will be beneficial for you. 

Think of Time Constraints 

• If you’re too busy to pack your home, it’s best to hire outside help. 
• If you’d rather spend time on other important stuff than packing, professional packers will do the work for you. 
• If you’re working on a tight moving deadline, think about whether self-packing will be the cause of delays. 

Weigh in on Your Physical Ability 

• Do you have the strength to lift heavy boxes or items?
• Do you have the stamina to spend all day sorting through your staff and packing them one by one?
• Do you have the patience to pack by room, label each box properly, and then arrange them according to which one should go in the moving truck first and last?

Take Into Account the Number and Value of All Your Belongings 

• If you don’t have to pack a lot, self-packing is a better option. 
• If you have plenty to pack and little time to do it, professional packers can provide the right assistance.
• If there are valuable and fragile items to pack, you might want to rely on the pros to pack them right. It’s better to pay for professional services than lose valuable items.

Think Long and Hard About Your Personal Preference 

• Do you prefer to pack items yourself? 
• Would you rather not have strangers touch any of your belongings? 
• Do you prefer the convenience of professional packing services? 
• Would you rather relax than stress over how to pack a fragile vase or ceramics?

Deciding on whether to self-pack or hire pros involves several factors, such as your budget, time, physical ability, personal preference, and value of belongings. It’s important to make the right decision to avoid regrets. If you choose to hire professionals, Ready Movers is a reputable company to rely on.