General Tips
- Pack up one room at a time.
- Give away or donate to a charity any clothes, furniture or other items that you no longer use or need.
- Start packing well in advance and start with items you use the least.
Packing Boxes
- Try to use same size boxes for ease of stacking and space maximization.
- Stack items in boxes in layers, heaviest on the bottom then medium and lightest on top.
- Place small boxes in large boxes.
- Fill boxes completely, stuff open spaces with crushed paper to avoid any collapsing.
- Don’t pack boxes too heavy so they are easier to lift (maximum 35-40lbs).
- Seal and secure all boxes with packing tape to avoid unexpected openings.
- Mark boxes on several sides indicating the contents and what room they belong in.
- When possible use specialty boxes for specific items (i.e. Wardrobe boxes for hanging garments).
Furniture and Appliances
- Secure all moving parts on appliances and store in original container if possible.
- Utilize inside of appliances and draws for storage space for small items and clothing.
- Disassemble furniture as much as possible and place hardware in bags and tape to furniture for easy reassembly.
- Wrap furniture in blanket or sheet to protect from scratches while in storage.
- Use appropriate storage covers for sofas, chairs, mattresses, etc.
- For larger appliances check with dealers for any special moving instructions.
Fragile Items
- Wrap items individually in clean newsprint or foam pouches, standard newspaper can smudge or dirty your items.
- Check all wrapped items for exposed rims, edges or sharp points and rewrap if necessary.
- Bundle 4-5 individually wrapped items in more paper for added protection.
- Stack dishes on their sides and glasses rim down.
- Put a 3-4 inch layer of cushioning in bottom of each box to protect items.
- Fill boxes completely, stuff open spaces with crushed paper to avoid any collapsing.
- Place FRAGILE sticker on several sides of each box.
Electronics
- Pack in original cartons whenever possible.
- Pack components separately in amply cushioned boxes.
- Label cables and tighten transit screws.
- If removing small items place them in an envelope and tape them to the appropriate component.
- Place FRAGILE sticker on several sides of each box.
Miscellaneous Items
- Wrap large pictures and mirrors in paper and store lying flat.
- Corners of mirrors need to be padded to avoid cracking and breaking.
- Pack toiletries in a leak proof container.
- Make sure all caps are on secure before packing.
- Tie long handled garden tools together with rope or tape.
- Drain all fluids from lawn and garden equipment.