Preparing and packing outdoor items properly and safely for a move is a special challenge. They say “you can’t take it with you when you go,” but we beg to differ– providing they’re talking about moving, not dying. Dirt is one of the things you can take it with you when you move — but you probably don’t want to– unless it’s in a pot. We”ll address that later in this blog
Save yourself the hassle of cleaning outdoor items at your new abode by cleaning before your move. Dirt on dirty things tends to get dirt on clean things in the process of moving. So, it’s simple. Get your cleaning done on this side of the move and save yourself double-duty at your new place. We go into more detail in our Cleaning Your Outdoor Items for a Move. (We’ll also throw in a bonus colony of squirrels. Just read the blog.)
Aside from cleaning, outdoor items like patio furniture also need extra prepping. When packing and moving your patio chairs and tables, for example, we advise that you remove cushions and pads, sharp edges and hard parts. There are often fragile components such as glass top tables on outdoor furniture, so it’s safer to take these components off frames and wrap them well.
Plastic bags or containers come in handy for securing those small, loose parts and accessories from outdoor items. You’re simply not going to want to take some items with you– but the good news is there are good recycling opportunities for a variety of hazardous items, such as pesticides, paint tins, and oil. See our Garage Power blog for more details on how to deal with these.
To prevent leaks during your move, drain the gas from your lawn mower, chainsaw, leaf blower and hedge trimmer. Also, remove your propane gas bottle from the BBQ. It’s dangerous to transport, even when empty.
Moving your greenery: if your plants could talk
There is one kind of dirt you will want to move, that’s the kind that nourishes your plants. And perhaps your planning to move the plants with the dirt. Make sure to cover pots in plastic to stop water and soil from seeping. Try to move plants in plastic pots. If you’re moving plants in ceramic pots, be careful to pack and wrap ceramic items and pottery separately. Remember to uncover the plants as soon as possible when you arrive at your new abode and you should be able to save most of your greenery.
The fact is, moving plants can be tough, and risky. If plants could talk, they’d likely say, “Let us stay here.” Or if they’re vegetables with a good sense of humour, “Lettuce stay here.” Moving can take a toll on your greenery– and especially if it’s a longer distance move.
Extreme temperatures, too much or too little water, and unstable travel conditions may make it tough for them to survive the transition to a new home. You want to at least do your best, but expect that there may be some casualites, especially among your most delicate plants.
It’s best to cover branches with paper sleeves or plastic sheets with slits in them. This will help to protect plants from breaks or loss of foliage. Or, pack them in lined boxes with ventilation holes. Also, sometimes branches need to be tied for the trip. Make sure to secure them gently in the direction the plant is growing.
From outdoor furniture to garden equipment to planters full of plants, Kary Movers has experience with them all. Have specific questions about moving outdoor items? Fire away! Call us at 1-877-687-1746 or email us at info@karymovers.com. You can also make an online inquiry and request a moving quote. We look forward to helping you move into your new home — and yard — with as little stress as possible.