If you will be doing your own packing the most important part will be pre-planning. Mistakes that may result in damages can be made when things are packed in a hurry. Some of these tips may seem like common sense, but they are often forgotten in the midst of a move. If there is something that has not been covered in this list, please call us and a helpful moving consultant can help you with your questions.
- If you will be using boxes that you got from the grocery store, check them carefully for bugs.
- Begin by packing items you do not use every day.
- Label each box, indicating in which room it should go. Mark fragile boxes boldly so the movers will exercise extra care.
- Upholstered items should be covered with protective plastic to prevent stains or damage.
- Rugs and similar items should be cleaned before the move.
- Remove bulbs and shades from all lamps. Lamp shades should be packed separately in a sturdy box. To protect your lampshades wrap them in bubble wrap. Do not use newspaper as it may leave smudges.
- Valuables should be removed and kept with you. This includes legal documents, financial records, insurance policies, computer diskettes with backed up files, jewelry, cash and credit cards.
- Glass table tops and glass doors on furniture should be crated with bubble wrap and heavy cardboard for safe shipping.
- Dry and canned foods may be shipped as long as they are packed in a sturdy box. Liquids should be discarded or thrown away.
- Chemical and hazardous materials, such as, but not limited to, propane tanks, pool chemicals, fertilizers, paint thinners, solvents, bleach, aerosol cans, and firearms cannot be shipped. Lawnmowers and other equipment with gas tanks must be completely drained prior to shipping.
- Drawers in furniture should be cleared of liquid and heavy items. Light clothing only may be left in sturdy furniture.
- Appliances should be disconnected prior to your moving team arriving. Also, take down shelves, light fixtures or chandeliers if applicable.
Items needing special handling, such as pool tables, Jacuzzi's or grandfather clocks should be disassembled by a professional prior to your move day. Once these items have been disassembled Best Moving and Transportation Inc. will be glad to pack and ship them for you.
- Pack largest and heaviest items in bottom of box first. Books and other heavy items should be packed in small boxes.
- Large mirrors or pictures should be wrapped individually, covering both sides with bubble wrap and heavy cardboard, and then binding with tape.
- Items should be packed in boxes that are the proper size. If there is empty space in the box use wadded up packing paper to fill up space.
- Small appliances and electronics should be packed in the boxes they came in whenever possible.
- For dishes and glassware you should use specially designed dish packages. Pack dishes on their sides wrapped in newspaper or packing paper in between them.
- If you disassemble any furniture yourself, remember to put the hardware in a plastic bag and attach it with tape so it will not be lost.
- Wrap sharp tools to prevent injury.
Computers and printers should be wrapped in a plastic bag first, then packed in the box it came in or similar sturdy box. Check the owner’s manual for tips in securing internal components. Repack those boxes in a second, individual box. Fill empty space with bubble wrap or cardboard. Remove printer cartridge. Mark "Fragile" and "This End Up" and the room destination.
Stereos, CD Players, VCR's and DVD's should be wrapped in plastic bags and then in the original cartons or similar sturdy box. Check the owner’s manual for additional packing tips. Repack those boxes in a second, individual box. Mark "Fragile" and "This End UP" and the room destination.
We recommend that clothing be packed in wardrobe boxes. Depending on the size of the garment, these boxes can hold up to 25 hangers. Fill the bottom of the boxes with shoes or other lightweight items.