Careful packing is one of the most important tasks in the moving process. How your household memories are wrapped, cartoned, and protected prior to transit can mean the difference between a pleasant moving experience or disappointment on move-in day. Below is a list of packing tips that can make your next relocation experience easy:
General Packing Tips:
- Place heavier items in the lower part of the carton and lighter items in the upper levels.
- Be generous with newsprint cushioning; it absorbs shock.
- Make sure all items are firmly packed in each carton. Loose items may move during transit and cause damage.
- Do not overfill cartons. Make sure the tops close easily without bulging.
- Double tape and use PVC or strapping tape to keep cartons from bursting during transit.
Labeling Boxes:
- Use a heavy marking pen. Mark the tops and sides of all cartons.
- List the general content of each carton, and mark the room each carton should be placed in when it arrives (kitchen, master bedroom, etc.).
- Mark fragile items “FRAGILE”.
- For items you will need immediately at your new home, mark “LOAD LAST, UNLOAD FIRST”.
- When appropriate, mark the carton “THIS END UP”.
Carton/Boxes & Use:
- Dish packs (18” x18” x 30”): Double reinforced walls provide extra protection for crystal, glassware, dishes and other fragile items.
- Large (23” x 23” x 20”): For light yet bulky items, such as pillows, comforters, lamp shades.
- Medium (18” x 18” x 16”): For non-fragile items such as pots and pans, games and folded clothing.
- Book (16” x 13” x 13”): Designed for heavier items, such as books and canned goods.
- Wardrobe (24” x 21” x 49”): For clothing taken directly from your closets. A horizontal metal bar allows clothing to remain on hangers throughout the move.
- Mirror/Picture: These cartons are adjustable to provide near custom fits for pictures, paintings, mirrors and other large, flat items.
Do Not Pack:
By law, our movers may not transport hazardous materials such as:
- Paints, Thinners, Oils & Varnishes
- Ammunition
- Bottled Gas or Propane
- Lamp Oil
- All Flammables, Explosives & Corrosives
- Motor Oils & Fuel
- Nail Polish Remover
- Bleach
- Sterno
- Aerosol Cans
- Matches, Lighter Fluid
Pack Your Own:
- Check Book
- Address Book, Planner
- Telephones, Telephone Book
- Laptop Computer
- Aspirin, Medications
- First Aid Kit
- Children’s Snacks
- Children’s Books, Toys
- Screwdriver, Hammer, Nails, Pliers
Personal Documents:
- Medical Records
- Doctor
- Pediatrician
- Dentist
- Orthodontist
- Optometrist
- Optician
- School Records
- Birth, Baptismal Certificates
- Marriage License
- Financial Records, Passbooks
- Credit Cards & Records
- Social Security Information
- Documents pertaining to the sale and purchase of homes.
- Receipts needed to be reimbursed for travel expenses.
Check Out Our Other Moving Resources
For more helpful packing tips, contact All Around Moving & Storage at 734-941-2280.
