Most people making a cross-country move have a difficult choice to make about their pantry items. Food is expensive, especially speciality items, so you want to keep as many of these items as you can. However food also spoils easily, so when making a long distance move, it’s important that you use discretion and pack your pantry items carefully. Here are some basic packing tips for your pantry:
Plan Ahead
A few weeks before your move, start thinking about what food items you can and cannot move. Any refrigerated or frozen food are not going to make it cross-country, so you should plan your meals around these foods. The same goes for any dry goods that are perishable or opened. Also during this time, only buy perishable goods in small quantities so you can eat them before you move.
What To Pack
There are many pantry items you can bring with you. Here is how to pack each of those items:
Canned Goods: Before moving day, ask your local grocery store if you can have some discarded canned goods boxes. These boxes were specially made to transport canned goods, so they are great for moving your pantry. If you don’t have time to do this, pick small boxes with sturdy bottoms. Canned goods are heavy so you want to make sure you can lift the boxes easily and that they bottoms won’t break out.
Unopened Boxed, Bagged, or Bottled Dry Goods: These items are typically lightweight, so you can stack them in any box. Another option is to put them in reusable grocery bags and take them in your car with you.
Baking Items: Sugar, flour, and spices can be taken with you, even if they are opened. You just need to make sure that you pack them in airtight bags or sealed containers. You can also tape the tops of boxes and the lids of spice jars closed.
If you are going to have any remaining food items when you move, call a local pantry and schedule a donation pick up or drop off the day you move. If you follow these tips, you’ll be able to save money and make sure you have a stocked pantry once you are in your new home.
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