Moving a garage requires a different approach than packing a living room or bedroom because the items are generally heavier, oddly shaped, or potentially hazardous. Our team at Helping Hands Family Movers wants to guide you through this process with a practical strategy. By breaking the job down into clear stages, you can transform a cluttered workshop into an organized load ready for the truck.
Sorting Through the Accumulation
Categorizing every single item is the absolute first step before you even think about bringing in a box. You likely have things in there you have not touched in years. Start by pulling everything out into the driveway or the center of the floor. Create distinct zones for things you will keep, items to donate, and trash. Be ruthless during this phase. If you have a rusted shovel or a duplicate set of screwdrivers you never use, let them go. Reducing the volume of goods you need to transport saves time and money. Look for broken equipment or plastic pots that are cracked. These should go straight to the waste bin. Group similar objects together as you sort. Put all gardening supplies in one pile and automotive care products in another. This visual separation helps you see exactly how much packing material you will need later. Do not skip this step as packing clutter is a waste of resources.
Obtaining the Right Packing Supplies
Standard cardboard containers often fail when tasked with holding heavy garage items. You need materials that can withstand weight and sharp edges. Plastic bins are excellent for this environment because they resist moisture and are generally stronger than paper based options. If you choose to use cartons, ensure they are double walled or specifically rated for heavy loads. Purchase plenty of strong packing tape. You do not want the bottom of a crate falling out while carrying power tools. Heavy wool blankets are essential for wrapping large items like snowblowers or bicycles to prevent scratches. Bubble wrap is necessary for protecting delicate parts, but old towels or rags work well too. We recommend getting zip ties for bundling long handled tools like rakes and brooms. Having the correct supplies on hand prevents pauses in your workflow and ensures your belongings stay safe during transit.
Safety Considerations for Hazardous Materials
Safety regulations strictly prohibit professional carriers from transporting certain dangerous goods. You must identify these items early to avoid confusion on loading day. Common garage staples like gasoline, propane tanks, paint thinner, and fertilizer are typically on the non allowable list. You cannot pack these in boxes and expect them to go on the truck because they pose a fire risk. It is dangerous for the crew and your other belongings. We recommend giving leftover paint to neighbors or finding a local hazardous waste disposal facility. Drain fuel from lawnmowers and weed whackers completely. Inspect your shelves for hidden dangers like car batteries or pool chemicals. Proper disposal or personal transport of these goods is the only legal and safe option. When you hire Edmonton moving services, we can provide you with a specific checklist of what cannot be loaded, ensuring everyone remains compliant and safe throughout the process.
Power Tools and Sharp Objects
Hand tools and power equipment require careful attention to prevent injury to yourself and the movers. Small items like wrenches, screwdrivers, and pliers should go into small, sturdy containers so the weight stays manageable. Wrap sharp edges of saws or chisels with thick cardboard and tape it specifically to the blade. This prevents the tool from slicing through the box or injuring a person carrying it. Remove attachments from power drills and saws. Pack batteries separately to ensure they do not turn on accidentally. If you have the original hard cases for your power equipment, use them. They offer the best protection. Fill any empty spaces in the case with rags to stop movement. For large stationary tools like a table saw, remove fragile parts like the fence or guard and wrap them individually. Secure the power cord so it does not drag or trip anyone.
Outdoor and Garden Equipment Preparation
Garden gear often carries dirt, oil, and debris that you do not want mixing with your clean household goods. Cleaning everything thoroughly is vital. Hose down shovels, rakes, and hoes to remove dried mud. Scrub the wheels of your lawnmower and wheelbarrow. Once dry, bundle long handled tools together using tape or zip ties. Wrap the bundle ends in a blanket to protect other items in the truck. If you have outdoor furniture, remove cushions and pack them in large bags. Disassemble tables if possible to save space. Stack chairs and secure them with shrink wrap. Drain hoses and coil them neatly. Connect the ends to prevent residual water from leaking out. Ensure that every piece of outdoor gear is completely dry before loading to prevent mold growth or water damage to other furniture nearby.
Recreational Gear and Odd Shapes
Bicycles, kayaks, and weight sets present unique challenges due to their size and density. Bikes should never be loaded loose. We suggest loosening the handlebars and turning them sideways to create a flatter profile. Wrap the frame in moving blankets to prevent paint chips. Remove pedals if they protrude significantly. For gym weights, never fill a large box completely as it will be impossible to lift. Spread heavy weights across several small boxes, mixing them with lighter items like towels to fill the gaps. Kayaks and canoes require specialized handling; usually, they are strapped to the side of the truck interior or placed on top of stacks. As a professional moving company in Edmonton, we have the experience to arrange these awkward items securely so they do not shift and cause damage during the drive. Secure skis and snowboards together and wrap the bindings to prevent them from snagging on other cargo.
Organization and Labeling Strategy
Marking your boxes clearly saves immense frustration when you arrive at your new home. Do not simply write generic terms on the outside. Be specific. Instead of just writing the room name, list the contents, such as automotive fluids or woodworking clamps. Color coding can also be helpful. Use a specific color tape or marker for all garage items so the movers know immediately where those boxes belong. If you are packing things that you will not need immediately, like winter tires during summer, label them as long term storage. This helps you decide what to unpack first. Number your boxes and keep a master list on your phone. This inventory helps you track your belongings and ensures nothing goes missing. Smart labeling allows you to prioritize essential tools you might need immediately upon arrival for assembling furniture or making minor repairs.
FAQ
What is the best way to pack liquid car fluids? Most professional movers cannot transport liquids that are flammable or corrosive. For safe non hazardous liquids, tighten the caps securely, tape over the lid, and place the bottle in a sealed plastic bag before putting it in a bin. This contains any potential leaks.
How do I move a large tool chest? Lock the drawers if the unit has a key. If not, use strong stretch wrap around the entire cabinet to keep drawers from sliding open. Do not empty the tools unless the chest is extremely heavy; often, you can move it full if it is on wheels and securely wrapped.
Can I leave items in my garage shelving units? No, you should empty all shelving units. Furniture and storage racks are not designed to be moved while bearing weight. Leaving items on shelves can cause the unit to collapse or twist during transport, damaging both the shelving and the items inside.
What should I do with my BBQ grill? Remove the propane tank or charcoal. Clean the grates and grease trap thoroughly to prevent messes. Secure the lid with a strap or bungee cord so it does not flap open. Wrap the entire grill in a moving pad or blanket for protection.
Do I need to defrost my garage freezer? Yes, you must defrost, clean, and dry deep freezers at least 24 hours before the move. Transporting a freezer with ice can lead to water damage in the truck. Secure the lid and tape the electrical cord to the back of the unit.
Get Ready for Your Move
Packing a garage takes time, effort, and the right techniques. By following these steps, you ensure your tools and equipment arrive safely and ready for use. If you feel overwhelmed by the sheer volume of items or need assistance with heavy lifting, our team is here to support you. Please contact us today to discuss your specific needs and let us make your transition smoother
