The days and weeks leading up to a move usually involve clearing out your previous home, including the fridge. Ideally, you should try to leave with nothing in the refrigerator, freezer or pantry. However, that’s not always possible, especially if your freezer is stocked to the brim.
There are plenty of pantry and refrigerator items you may end up giving away or throwing in the trash but the goal is to create as little waste as possible. Moving can be expensive and arriving at your new home with food ready to cook can help save you time, money and stress.
Moving frozen food takes some planning and the right supplies. Here are a few simple tips to help you move it safely and keep everything in good condition.
How to Transport Frozen Food When Moving
- Throw Away Expired Food: The first step when moving any food—frozen or not—is to get rid of anything that has expired. Use up or toss condiments and other items that only have a small amount left. You should also throw away dented cans, as the food inside may not be safe to eat.
- Use What You Can: The less you have to move, the easier it will be. Try to eat as much of your frozen food as you can before the move. Give any items you won’t use at your new place to friends or family. You can also donate unopened frozen food to people who need it.
- Get the Right Equipment: Moving frozen food over long distances requires a portable freezer or a good-quality cooler. Pack it with cold packs, ice blocks or dry ice to keep everything cold during the trip. Keep adding ice if needed to make sure the temperature stays below 39°F (4°C) which helps prevent spoilage and bacteria. Moving frozen food in a simple box or bag is not safe, even for a short distance.
- Pack Frozen Food: Wrap frozen meats in newspaper and place them in sealed containers or storage bags to stop any leaks. Keep meats at the bottom of the cooler and place other frozen items on top. Pack everything closely together, as empty spaces can cause food to thaw faster. Fill any gaps with ice packs if needed. Knowing how to keep food frozen during a move is important to prevent spoilage and keep your family safe.
- Stock Your New Freezer: Frozen food should be one of the first things you move into your new home. Transfer everything from the cooler to your freezer right away. These items can be useful during your first few days, helping you avoid extra grocery trips while you focus on unpacking.
Hire a Moving Company
Moving frozen food from one home to another may feel like a big task but it can help you save money and avoid extra stress when you arrive at your new place. The good thing is, you don’t have to handle everything by yourself.
The professional movers at STI Moving & Storage offer a wide range of services, including handling the time-consuming tasks of packing, unpacking and more. Reach out to STI Moving to discuss moving services and request a free quote for your next move.
