Packing is a very important part of you move. The way you prepare your belongings for transport will affect both the speed of your move, and the condition in which they arrive. General rules for packing are really just common sense:
- Try to put heavier items in smaller boxes and light bulky items in larger boxes Do not over or under pack boxes. If you over pack, the box is likely to split and you will have things sticking out the top. This makes it difficult for the mover to stack them on the truck. Under packing boxes is also detrimental–often the top of the box will dent in or be crushed.
- Try to use newer, sturdier boxes. Boxes that have seen many moves may not keep your belongings as safe as a newer box. Used grocery store boxes will work fine for sturdy items, but pack breakables in something more substantial. Use plenty of packing materials–packing paper,peanuts, bubble wrap. It is very important to put a generous layer of materials at the bottom of boxes containing fragile items.
- Certain possessions require specific care when packing. The following are some of the basic packing techniques used by professionals:
China
Wrap each item separately in unprinted newspaper, and use a specially partitioned box such as the “china box
Stemware
First, wrap the stems for extra protection; then wrap each glass individually and place upside down in a partitioned box.
Mirrors, glass tops to furniture, large pictures
For complete safety, these items may be crated for shipment. For local moves, these items can be covered with bubble wrap or placed in picture/mirror cartons.
Silverware
Nest utensils in groups of three or four, wrap securely and place in silver chest or cushioned box.
Lamp Shades
Handle shades only by the wire frames; place in large boxes. Shades can be nested together in one box if separated by clean paper.
Clothes
Clothes can be folded and boxed. For faster unpacking, you can obtain special wardrobe boxes
from your mover, allowing you to neatly pack by leaving clothes on hangers.
Small appliances, computers, stereo equipment
If possible, pack small appliances, computers, stereo equipment and VCRs in their original
boxes. Otherwise, cushion appliances with crumpled packing paper. Tape down moving parts, such
as stereo turntable tone arms.
Glass jars and bottles
Pack with bubble wrap or several layers of paper.
Secure stoppers or lids with masking tape to
the top of the jar or bottle. Don’t move flammable items.
Statuary, figurines, curios
Wrap generously in bubble pack, wrap in a layer of clean paper and pack in boxes with plenty of crumpled paper or foam packing in between items. Objects with delicate appendages, such as candelabras or figurines with extended arms, should be wrapped with extra bubble pack and surrounded by extra packing material.
Record albums, tapes, CDs
Stack these items on end so they can absorb shock with less chance of damage. Pack tightly so they’re secure and can’t shift.