Packing Tips
Packing is one of the most important aspects of the moving process. Disorganized or careless packing may cause your items to be damaged upon arrival. Although we offer packing services for your convenience, we understand that you and your family are under certain budget constraints. Packing yourself can save you a great deal of money, but remember that you must pack smart or you’ll pay later.
The associates at Moving Out have helped put together some tips for you to begin packing. We could not include all the tricks of the trade into one sheet, but we believe that this is a great place to start. Good Luck.
General Packing Guidelines:
- Pack early! Once you determine your move date, begin organizing and arranging your belongings. An organized packing job means an efficient move and a stress free unpacking process when you arrive at your new home.
- Pack one room at a time. Label each box by room, not by content. In this way, you can manage the unpacking process efficiently.
- Start with the simple items such as books, linens, clothing, and shoes so as not to get overwhelmed. Once you have accomplished this, begin to pack plates, dishes, and small kitchen appliances. Lastly, pack the furniture, mattresses, and heavy appliances. We encourage you to use professional packers for the larger items.
- When packing a heavier item, use a box that has just enough room, packing it tightly. Don’t try to place everything into one large box - it will make it difficult to move and give a greater chance for it to break. If you can’t lift it, then there is a high probability that it may break.
- With respect to jewelry, photo albums, and various heirlooms and irreplaceable items, pack these items yourself and take them with you, either in the car or as carry-on luggage.
- Ensure that you obtain quality materials for your items - choose boxes that are strong and sturdy. And don’t forget to use strong tape. You want to make sure that all your items arrive at their destination without any bumps or bruises.
- For your replaceable and non-fragile items, save money by using boxes that you can obtain from local supermarkets and other retailers and wrapping the items in old newspaper.
- Be aware that certain items should not be packed for transport because they are deemed hazardous, flammable, explosive, or corrosive. These items or materials include such things as paint, paint thinners, oils, firearms and ammunition, bottled gas, propane, lamp oil, motor fuels and oils, nail polish remover, bleach, and aerosol cans.
- Be aware that movers have the right to refuse to load any box they deem improperly packed. Feel free to ask us for advice when packing awkward items to ensure that we will not turn anything away.
- Make certain that you have disconnected all your major appliances. You will want to do this the night before the movers arrives to load your items.
- Prepare your computer - back-up your important files. You may want to transport your computer by car if you do not feel safe enough have it moved for you.
