Packing Tips
Moving to a new house, condo, apartment, or office? Listed below are some helpful hints to make your packing process smooth and trouble-free.
- Figure out how many boxes, rolls of tape, and cushioning packages you’ll need - and buy much more than that! You’d be surprised how often people run out of packing and shipping supplies before their stuff is all packed.
- Label all boxes, large or small.
- Packed boxes should weigh less than 50 pounds. No one wants to risk dropping a box of valuables because it had been overstuffed.
- Pack heavier items on the bottom.
- Stuff socks, scarves, pillow cases and other small fabric items in holes and crevices in boxes - just make sure you keep pairs of socks together!
- Make sure all boxes can be sealed so the tops are flat. You do not want the top of packed boxes to swell as a result of over packing.
- Pack small items in small boxes and place the small boxes into a large box.
- Small, loose items should be boxed or bagged and sealed securely before placing into a larger box.
- If you pack liquids, either transfer them into a sealable container or make sure the lid is secured by taping it down. Then put it into a waterproof bag, seal the bag, and place it upright into a box.
- Clearly mark the box with arrows and "This End Up."
- Keep an inventory list of each box and its contents.
- Keep a box labeled "Load last, unload first" for the essentials you'll need when you arrive.
- Do not move important records with the rest of your household or office goods. If you cannot take them with you in the car, van, or truck, then send them ahead with a secure courier company.
- Fill extra free spots with lighter linens. This can be done with your washer and dryer and vegetable crisper in the refrigerator.
- As much as possible, keep items in their proper places. For example, when packing the silverware/flatware, keep it in its tray and tape bubble wrap around it to secure the contents.
- Tape screws, bolts and other loose items to underside of furniture. Make sure you bag them first.
- Keep tools you'll need to reassemble furniture in a separate box that is clearly marked.
- Do not pack using standard garbage bags!
- Keep items from the same room in the same box (as much as possible). This will make it easier to sort the contents after you move.
- Get everyone involved by making a task list, then dividing out the jobs that each person can do. Organizing your household or office will save you time and energy.
