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PACKING DOS & DON'TS
Having the necessary items on hand will make packing simple and will help you avoid casualties such as broken dishes and scratched furniture. The first step is to gather boxes, tape, scissors or a utility knife, bubble wrap, packing peanuts, newspapers, and blankets, towels and pillows for padding and protection. Suitcases and gym bags should not be overlooked since they are good options for packing clothes, shoes and other items.
Do…
- Empty all drawers of breakable or spillable items.
- Pack one room at a time and label each box clearly with the name of the room the box goes in and a brief description of the contents.
- Keep the weight of your boxes reasonable. The heavier the item(s), the smaller the box. Bulky items such as books should be packed in small boxes so they can be easily carried.
- Pack cartons with heavier items on the bottom and lighter ones on top.Mark them “This side up” with an arrow pointing to the top of the box.
- When disassembling furniture, place the corresponding knobs, screws, etc. in a small zip lock bag and tape the bag securely to the piece of furniture it belongs to.
- Pack all boxes to capacity. Boxes that are underfilled are more likely to be crushed. Boxes that are overpacked can tear or fall apart.
- Place boxes marked “Fragile” on top of stacks of boxes.
- Label all boxes as soon as you are finished packing them. Include a brief description of the contents and the room they belong in.
- Double-box fragile items and add plenty of cushioning.
Do Not…
- Reuse boxes that have been used many times and are beginning to wear. The box may end up on the bottom of a large stack.
- Apply tape directly to polished or painted wood surfaces. Removing the tape could ruin the surface.
- Pack flammable goods or heat-sensitive items like records, audio & video tapes, computer disks, propane tanks, aerosol cans, oil-based paints, and certain cleaning fluids.
Truck Loading Tips
When it’s time to load the truck, placing items correctly inside will make the ride smoother and unloading much easier.
- Make sure the items you will need first are loaded last (i.e., kids toys, kitchen items, telephone) so they are accessible when you unload the truck.
- Load the heaviest items first, which will help keep the truck stable when on the road.
- Place bureaus, large china cabinets, sofas, refrigerators, and other heavy items against the front wall of the truck. Then, load chairs, tables, bookcases and lighter items toward the back.
- Stand large, flat items like mirrors, mattresses, box springs and table tops upright against the sides of the truck and tie them securely. Store mirrors and pictures on end.
Stack lighter boxes on top of larger, heavier ones.
- Carry valuable papers and other items with you in the front of the truck so they don’t get lost or damaged.
MOVING TO YOUR NEW HOME
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