Moving & Packing Tips

In this post, helergon.com will teach you everything I have learned about how to pack, move efficiently, and settle into your new home quickly. We’ll also cover budget tips and pointers for making the transition smooth for children.

I also have passionate feelings about the best packing supplies that streamline the process—especially if you are doing all the packing yourself!

Packing Tips For Moving

We chose to pack our own boxes because we wanted to take advantage of the chance to declutter and donate items as we packed.

I see the obvious benefits of hiring a mover to pack all your belongings for you, but I would at least consider doing it yourself if you feel you have a lot of clutter to get rid of. We spent time packing our belongings on nights and weekends.

Throughout this process, we saved thousands of dollars in moving fees and we were able to donate a lot of stuff instead of moving it and then donating it later. Here are my tips for doing your own packing:

Get matching boxes. I completely understand how tempting it is to try to save all your Amazon boxes or procure some boxes from a local grocery store. But hear me out—it’s worth it to get boxes that are all exactly the same size. The boxes we used were primarily medium boxes with handles and bankers' boxes (which require no packing tape). I highly suggest bankers' boxes for books and heavy, small items.

Use clothing bags for clothing and linens. We purchased plastic storage bags for moving all our “soft stuff” like clothing, bed linens, pillows, and even items like kids' toys. These bags fit a lot more than boxes and create a plush layer that is great to use as padding in your POD for furniture, mirrors (or other items that you are very concerned about protecting).

Label everything. Even if the box you are packing seems “random,” try to resist the urge to label it that way or not label it. Instead, make notes on the boxes of any items you may try to find later. If you want to do a color-coded system, I recommend these moving box labels.

Declutter ruthlessly as you go. As I mentioned above, one of the best perks of packing your own boxes is you can simultaneously declutter your belongings as you go. I recommend getting rid of anything that you don’t use, you don’t love, or that you’ve outgrown in style. I like to use the Marie Kondo “Does it spark joy?” method. Try to donate as much as possible.


Booking a Moving Service

After reading about our friend Julia’s moving fraud experience, we decided against a moving broker or a full-service moving company. I am sure there are many reputable options out there, but after reading her story we felt safest with a simple POD moving option.


Having used a POD in the past to relocate across state lines, we knew what to expect and felt good about the option.

The biggest difference between a POD and a moving truck like U-Haul is that you don’t have to drive to POD yourself. So once it is packed and locked up, you can drive to your new home (or even fly) with minimal belongings and you know your POD will make its way to you in a few weeks.

The way our POD experience worked is that we booked an exact day that our POD would arrive—about a week before we departed from our home in Tennessee. Once the POD arrived, it sat in our driveway for around a week.

You can choose to pack the POD yourself or hire a local mover to help you pack it. We chose to do a hybrid approach. We packed the majority all our boxes ourselves over about a month before the POD arrived.

On the day the POD was dropped off in our driveway, my husband loaded the majority of our boxes himself. He wanted to do this because he was meticulous about putting all the heavy boxes at the bottom. He packed each row all the way to the ceiling so there was almost no wasted space.

The next day, a moving crew arrived and helped us move large and heavy items into the POD that we couldn’t have done on our own. Since we sold most of our furniture with our home, we only had about 10 big and heavy items to move and it took less than an hour.

Once that was completed, we used every inch of the remaining space to fit more stuff into the POD. We ended up using 100% of the space within the POD and were able to fit almost everything we wanted into the space. What we couldn’t fit, we squeezed into our cars or donated before moving.

Why we like PODS – First of all, PODS are affordable. I haven’t found a more affordable option for moving across the country. I really like that you have up to a week to pack so there’s time to get it just right (most of my mistakes in life are a result of rushing).

The POD system is extremely simple and straightforward. We felt protected from fraud and we saved a lot of money on the move overall. Our move cost under $4,000 total, which is a big saving on what it would have been with a full-service option.

Cons of PODS (be careful about these things) – The biggest complaint that I hear from people who have used a POD for moving is that a lot of stuff was broken or damaged. You are basically packing a small semi truck back and then you don’t see it for about two weeks when it arrives in your new driveway.

What happens to them during their journey? This is unclear, but it seems like they may go to hell and back. Haha! OK, but really—you have to be very strategic in your packing! It’s up to you.


Best International Moving Companies

1. BRITANNIA MOVERS INTERNATIONAL

Britannia is a member of the FIDI, the largest global alliance of independent quality international removal companies, and all other major international organizations, and with international partnerships across the world, Britannia can offer a high-quality and efficient removal service all around the world. 

FEATURES

Ship globally Air freight services available Comprehensive insurance cover

IMPORTANT FACTS

Price: Medium 

Countries covered: US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Asia, Middle East and ROW

Online Quote?: Yes 

Moving Insurance? : Yes

Available website: https://www.britannia-movers.co.uk/international-removals

2. 1ST MOVE INTERNATIONAL

1st Move is a specialist international removals company offering fast, weekly services direct from the UK to a range of destinations worldwide. Their unbeatable palletized shipping offers the best protection for your belongings during transit. For a fast, safe, and secure overseas removal service, choose 1st Move International. Established in 1998 and trusted members of the British Association of Removers (BAR) and the British International Freight Association (BIFA).

FEATURES

Worldwide Shipping Unique Palletised Removals Guaranteed Weekly Departures Comprehensive Insurance Cover Reduced Handling of Individual Items Fewer Insurance Claims

IMPORTANT FACTS

Price: Medium to high 

Countries covered  USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Cyprus, Malta, Asia, and the Middle East 

Online Quote? Yes 

Moving Insurance? Yes

Available website: https://www.shipit.co.uk/

3. SEVEN SEAS WORLDWIDE

Seven Seas Worldwide offers a fast, flexible, and, affordable international shipping service, collecting and delivering all manner of items throughout the world from extra luggage and suitcases to sports equipment and furniture. Basically, if we can get it into a box or loaded into the back of one of our vehicles, we’ll take it. We do this via our global shipping service which has depots throughout the world.


FEATURES

Ship globally to key expat destinations Free online quotes Removal insurance included Student removal service available Optional storage services.

IMPORTANT FACTS

Price: Low to Medium

Countries covered: US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Asia and Middle East 

Online Quote? Yes 

Moving Insurance? Yes

Available website: https://www.sevenseasworldwide.com/


4. CLOCKWORK REMOVALS AND STORAGE

Clockwork Removals and Storage specializes in removals and storage services for individuals and families, offering tailored experience with export packing, customs restrictions, and orientation help at your final destination. Wherever life may take you, Clockwork can move you there with the same level of care, quality, and customer service every step of the way. Clockwork is part of the FIDI Global Alliance and is a member of the BAR Overseas Group.


FEATURES

Free International Move Survey Full Export Packing Services Full Marine Transit Insurance Storage Options Available Full Door to DDoor-to-Dooroor Service Dedicated International Move Managers

IMPORTANT FACTS

Price: Medium 

Countries covered: Worldwide Online 

Quote?No 

Moving Insurance? Yes

Available website: https://www.clockworkremovals.co.uk/

5. PICKFORDS

Pickford is an award-winning international removal company. Pickfords operates award-winning as part of the Allied International Moving Network, which means they have access to the global resources of one of the world’s most trusted international removal networks and have the expertise and resources to move you to any country worldwide.


FEATURES

Ship globally Comprehensive insurance cover available Award-winning Pet moving services available Optional storage services

IMPORTANT FACTS

Price: High 

 : Countries covered: US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East Online 

Quote? Yes 

Moving Insurance? Yes


FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)


1. When should I start planning a move?

It's best to start planning your move at least 2-3 months before your move date. This gives you enough time to organize everything well.

2. What do I need to do to prepare for the move?

Some important things you need to do are:

  • Make a list of items to be moved
  • Get an estimate of moving costs from the transport service
  • Arrange relocation scheduling with related parties
  • Start packing items that are not used very often

3. How to pack things properly?

Here are tips for packing goods properly:

  • Use a box/cardboard that is strong and appropriate to the size of the item
  • Put a pad or safety layer on the bottom and sides of the box
  • Group similar items in one box
  • Give a label and description of the contents of each box

4. What do you need to pay attention to when loading goods into the truck?

Things you need to pay attention to when loading goods onto a truck include:

  • Arrange items neatly and densely to avoid shifting
  • Place heavy items at the bottom
  • Separate fragile items with dividers
  • Don't leave empty gaps between stacks of items

5. How to ensure goods arrive at their destination safely?

To ensure goods arrive safely, you can:

  • Make sure the contract/agreement with the transportation service is clear
  • Provide a list of items being moved to the carrier
  • Check the condition of the goods upon delivery at the destination
  • Document any damage that occurs

How to Fix the Windows Stop Code Memory Management BSOD

Helergon.com -Are you currently experiencing the Windows "Memory Management" blue screen of death? This common Windows stop code is frustrating, but there are some simple fixes for Windows Memory Management errors.


What Is Windows Memory Management?


Every Windows machine uses memory management to manage system memory. I know the clue is in the name, but properly working memory management is important to your system's health. When the Windows memory management function stops working, your computer will start throwing out BSODs like no tomorrow.

Windows 10 and 11 memory management tracks every memory location on your system, managing the allocation, transition, and processes available to and held in your system RAM. So, when you open a program, memory management allocates RAM to it, and when you close it, it tells your system that the memory is now free for use.

So, why does the Windows 11 memory management BSOD happen?

In short, you'll see the memory management BSOD screen, which means there has been a critical memory management error. Windows 11 will crash, and you may see the 0x0000001A memory management stop code (it doesn't always appear, but the words "MEMORY_MANAGEMENT" will be on your screen somewhere).

There are several well-known causes of memory management errors, including:

  • Faulty RAM
  • Issues with new hardware, such as a graphics card
  • Faulty drivers
  • Software issues, including corrupt system and operating system files
  • Disk errors

Sometimes, if it's a one-off memory management error, a quick system restart will clear the problem, and you'll be ready. Sometimes, you might have to dig deeper to fix the memory management error.

  1. Basic Fixes

Before getting into the detailed fixes, try running through these quick fixes. One might solve your memory management issue before you spend more time resolving it.

  • Have you tried switching your computer off and on again? This simple fix can fix all Windows issues, including the Windows memory management stop code.
  • Next, try updating Windows. Outdated system files can cause unexpected errors. Checking for a pending update is a quick and easy way to determine whether that is causing your issue.
    • Windows 10: Press Win + I, then head to Update & Security > Windows Update. Install any pending updates.
    • Windows 11: Press Win + I, then head to Windows Update. Install any pending updates.
  • You could also try to reseat your system hardware if something has slipped slightly out of its port or socket. If you moved your computer recently or something or someone bumped into it, there's a small chance your RAM became unseated, which could lead to a memory management error.

There is no guarantee these basic fixes will work, but they're worth trying.


2. Run the Windows Memory Diagnostic Tool

If your Windows memory management error persists, it's time to run the Windows Memory Diagnostic to check for a specific error with your system's RAM. The tool runs after you reboot Windows 11, checks for errors in your RAM, and creates an error log for analysis.

  1. Input Windows memory diagnostic in the Start Menu search bar, and select the Best Match.
  2. You now have two options: restart now or check for problems after the next system reboot. As it sounds, the restart option will immediately reboot your computer and begin the diagnostic tool. Be warned, however, that the diagnostic tool can take hours to run, and your computer will be out of action during that period.
  3. As such, checking for problems later is often the best option, as you can continue to use your computer (memory management BSODs notwithstanding) and then plan the memory scan to run overnight, maximizing its run time.

Once complete, you can check the Windows Memory Diagnostic event log for errors. The log file, however, isn't apparent after you boot back into Windows.

  1. Press Win+X and select Event Viewer from the Power menu.
  2. In the Event Viewer, select Event Viewer (Local) > Windows Logs > System.
  3. In the right-hand column, select Find and type MemoryDiagnostic into the box. Hit Find Next.

Your diagnostic results will be displayed at the bottom of the window.


3. Run MemTest86


Now, while the Windows Memory Diagnostic tool scans and checks your RAM for errors, it doesn't always catch everything. Many people swear by a different tool when it comes to RAM checking: MemTest86.

The main difference between the two tools is that you run MemTest86 from a bootable USB flash drive. Like the Windows Memory Diagnostic, MemTest86 takes a long time to complete a single pass, taking hours depending on the amount of RAM installed in your system.

Want to give it a try? Check out "Step 7: Check Your RAM Using MemTest86" in our guide to fixing the WHEA Uncorrectable Error. It has all the instructions you need!


4. Update Your Drivers

Another quick and handy potential fix for the memory management BSOD is to update your system drivers. New software or hardware may come with new drivers, and your system might not have got the message. Driver faults are less common than in the days of computing yore, especially as Windows 10 and 11 handle driver updates, by and large. But that's not to say they don't happen.

Windows 10

  1. Press Win + I to open the Settings panel, then select Update & Security > View update history. You can find any driver updates here.
  2. Now, type device manager in the Start menu search bar and select the Best match. Go down the list and check for an error symbol. If there is nothing, your driver status is likely not the source of the issue.
  3. If you do see a driver with a yellow or red alert, right-click the problematic driver, select Update Driver, then follow the on-screen instructions, typically selecting the option to Search automatically for drivers.

Windows 11

  1. Press Win + I to open the Windows 11 Settings panel. Head to Windows Update > Update History.
  2. Scroll down and unfurl the Driver Updates section. It'll show you any recently updated Windows 11 drivers.
  3. Now, press Win+X to open the Power Menu, and select Device Manager. Scroll down the list and check for the yellow or red error symbol. If there are no error symbols, it's unlikely that a misconfigured driver is causing the Windows 11 memory management issue.
  4. If you do see a driver with a yellow or red alert, right-click the problematic driver, select Update Driver, then follow the on-screen instructions, typically selecting the option to Search automatically for drivers.

That said, you can use a third-party tool to update all of your system drivers simultaneously. Check out this list of free tools you can use to fix Windows problems. The first two options—IOBit's Driver Booster and Snappy Driver Installer—do exactly this.


5. Update Your GPU Drivers

A common theme throughout Memory Management BSOD threads and forum posts is that, at times, outdated or brand-new GPU drivers can cause the BSOD. Although the focus is on the memory management stop code, there is a video memory management-specific stop code too. The video memory management internal stop code is 0x0000010E and may indicate a faulty GPU driver.

To update your GPU drivers, go to the manufacturer's website and download the latest update. For the majority of users, that's either Nvidia or AMD.

If you're unsure what GPU you are using, type "dxdiag" in your Start Menu search bar and select the Best Match. When the DirectX Diagnostic Tool opens, select the Display tab. You'll find your GPU listed here.

Nvidia GPU owners also have the option of installing the Nvidia GeForce Experience—but is it worthwhile.


6. Run CHKDSK and SFC


CHKDSK is a Windows system tool that verifies the file system and, with certain settings, fixes issues as it runs. You run CHKDSK from the Command Prompt, and it has a bunch of nifty features.

  1. Type the command prompt in your Start menu search bar, then right-click the best match and select Run as administrator. (Alternatively, press the Windows key + X, then select Command Prompt (Admin) from the menu.)
  2. Next, type chkdsk /r and press Enter. The command will scan your system for errors and fix any issues along the way.

Running CHKDSK can help with several Windows errors, including the DPC WATCHDOG VIOLATION stop code.

Is memory management error still occurring? System File Check is another Windows system tool that checks for missing and corrupt Windows system files. Sounds like CHKDSK, right? Well, SFC checks for Windows system files specifically, while CHKDSK scans your entire drive for errors.


But before running the SFC command, it is best to double-check that it is completely functional.

DISM stands for Deployment Image Servicing and Management. DISM is an integrated Windows utility with a vast range of functions. In this case, the DISM Restorehealth command ensures that our next fix will work properly. First, work through the following steps.

  1. Type Command Prompt (Admin)in the Start menu search bar, then right-click and select Run as administrator to open an elevated Command Prompt.
  2. Type the following command and press Enter: DISM /online /cleanup-image /restorehealth
  3. Wait for the command to complete. The process can take up to 20 minutes, depending on your system's health. The process seems stuck at certain times, but wait for it to complete.
  4. When the process completes, type sfc /scannow and press Enter.

Now, wait for the scan to complete.


7. Reset Windows (Last Resort)



Okay, still tearing your hair out? Sometimes nothing other than a Windows Reset will completely fix your problem. Windows Reset replaces your system files with a completely fresh set of files. Theoretically, this clears lingering issues relating to memory management errors while keeping most of your important files intact.

Windows 10

  1. Head to Settings > Update and Security > Recovery.
  2. Under Reset this PC, select Get Started.
  3. Your system restarts as soon as you hit the button, so make sure you back up any important files beforehand. Your system will restart, and then you may select Keep My Files or Remove Everything.

Windows 11

  1. Press Win + I, and head to System > Recovery.
  2. From here, select Reset this PC. You can choose to keep or remove your personal files and then reinstall Windows 11.

Memory management BSODs are difficult to take care of. So many variables can lead to a memory management error, and that's exactly why diagnosing a direct issue is sometimes problematic. However, one of the above fixes will bring your system back from the brink so that you can continue your work free of any BSOD for now.


FAQ: How to Fix the Windows Stop Code Memory Management BSOD


What is the Memory Management BSOD error?


The Memory Management Blue Screen of Death (BSOD) error occurs when Windows encounters a problem with its memory management system. This can be caused by faulty hardware, corrupted system files, or incompatible software.

What are the common causes of the Memory Management BSOD?


  1. Faulty RAM: Defective or failing memory modules can lead to this error.
  2. Corrupted System Files: Damaged Windows files can disrupt normal memory management.
  3. Driver Issues: Outdated or incompatible drivers may cause conflicts.
  4. Hard Drive Problems: Issues with the hard drive can affect memory allocation.
  5. Malware: Viruses and malware can interfere with memory management.


How can I fix the Memory Management BSOD?


  1. Run Windows Memory Diagnostic:
    • Press Windows + R, type mdsched.exe, and press Enter.
    • Choose to restart and check for problems.
  2. Update Drivers:
    • Go to Device Manager, right-click on the device, and select "Update driver."
    • Consider using the manufacturer’s website for the latest drivers.
  3. Check for Windows Updates:
    • Go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update, and check for updates.
  4. Run System File Checker:
    • Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run sfc /scannow to repair system files.
  5. Check Hard Drive Health:
    • Use chkdsk to scan for and fix hard drive errors. Open Command Prompt as Administrator and run chkdsk /f /r.
  6. Test RAM:
    • If the diagnostic tool finds issues, consider replacing your RAM. You can also use third-party tools like MemTest86.
  7. Uninstall Recently Installed Software:
    • If the error started after installing new software, uninstall it to see if that resolves the issue.


What should I do if the error persists?


If you continue to experience the Memory Management BSOD after trying the above solutions, consider seeking professional assistance or performing a clean installation of Windows. Back up your data before proceeding with major changes to your system.


Can I prevent the Memory Management BSOD?


To minimize the chances of encountering this error, keep your system updated, regularly check for hardware issues, and use reliable antivirus software to protect against malware. Regularly backing up your data can also safeguard against data loss.