The kitchen is the most complex room to pack when moving. Naturally organizing the contents of a pantry takes a little extra time, but very worth the dedication when you get to your new home and its time to unpack. The kitchen requires special methodical techniques and execution however. Dishes, glassware, kitchen aids, appliances, and everything kept in the kitchen often requires extra preparations for safety. But when it comes to the pantry and fridge/freezer items, few want to waste the hundreds of dollars worth of food. With that in mind, we at Good Time Moving & Storage would like to offer some tips concerning packing the pantry.
What Should I Eat Before I Move?
Food expires and packing the food is applicable some of the time for safety standards. When you know you are set to move, it is always a good idea to use up the contents of the fridge, freezer, and pantry; particularly the food that can spoil. Most food in the fridge can survive up to 2 hours, so local moves are not a big deal, but it is another story for people moving long distances. When you set to start packing the pantry, only pack up the non-perishables that have an expiration of 6 months or more. Spice jars and unopened items can be packed easy enough. Open containers and bags along with food that expire in less than 6 months should be left aside. Additionally, long distance moving cost is influenced by weight and you have to decide if adding the extra weight is worth packing up the cans.
How Do I Pack My Pantry to Move?
Plastic bins with snapping lids are optimal for packing your pantry. The food stored in the pantry can quickly become too heavy for cardboard boxes and the plastic bins with secure lids will deter any insect infestations. To avoid messes, ensure your bins are tightly packed and the box is organized and tidy. Use Tupperware or Zip-lock bags to seal open ingredients or food that you must keep. Stack heavier boxes on the bottom and line them up tightly against them. Be sure to label them kitchen and fragile so movers can better load them into the truck safely.
What Food Should I Throw Away?
As far as the items in the freezer and fridge go, the food you are unable to use can be given to family members or unopened packaged food may be donated to various facilities and help centers. You can call around to see if anyone has the capabilities to store these items and can accept the donation. Otherwise, you will have to throw them out. Additionally, the pantry food that are going to expire sooner than later or you simply don’t want to pay to move can also be donated to local shelters charity groups. Find which charity is right for your donations and call them to learn the specifics on what foods they will accept and get them boxed up and ready. Most of these organizations will even schedule someone to pick them up.
Local & Long Distance Residential & Commercial Packing, Moving & More in Knoxville, Antioch, Gallatin, Murfreesboro, Goodletsville, Brentwood, Franklin, Hendersonville, Clarksville, Old Hickory & Greater Nashville, Tennessee
When you know you are moving locally or over a long distance, call Good Time Moving & Storage and let our professionals offer a variety of moving packages to help you with your move!