Moving your home to the next street or across the country is a serious undertaking. Use the proper packing materials. It will payoff in the long run! Sturdy boxes, packing tape, and bubble wrap can all be purchased at nearby stationery shops or hardware stores. Boxes can be found there too. Sturdy boxes can also be retrieved from wholesale companies, at no charge, after a shipment. Other great types of reasonably priced padding for your boxes include wadded up newspaper, old pillows and blankets.
ack one room at a time labeling each box appropriately (on top and side) with a description of its contents and which room the box belongs in. Also label boxes containing breakable or sentimental items with Fragile. Keep a detailed list of what items are packed in each box to make unpacking easier.
Empty all drawers of breakable or easy-to-spill items. To keep from unnecessary damage, it&rsquos a good idea to put all furniture knobs, feet, screws, etc. in one container that you can keep with you so the parts won't get lost.
Do not pack flammable goods or heat sensitive items like candles, records, audio and video tapes, computer disks, propane tanks, aerosol cans, oil based paints, and certain cleaning fluids.
Wrap items individually and always place a layer of crushed paper in the bottom of the carton for cushioning. Fill empty spaces with additional crushed paper.
Make sure cartons are firmly packed with heavier items on bottom and lighter ones on top.
If you'll be putting some boxes in storage, make sure to pack according to the seasons during which your things will be in storage and mark the boxes accordingly.
Put heavy items in small boxes so that they're easier to carry.
When packing the truck, make sure the items you'll need first are loaded in last (kids toys, kitchen items, telephone, radio etc) to make access easier.
When loading your truck keep in mind the size, sturdiness, and weight of your boxes.
Plan Ahead
Plan ahead for what you'll need the first day after your move. Packing a separate bag with your toiletries, a change of clothes, etc. will avoid unnecessary scrambling or a run to the local store.
If possible, move on a weekday when banks, utilities, and government offices are open.
