Packing for a Move

Following are packing tips to consider when packing large items, packing small items and packing awkward items.

General Packing Tips:

• Keep the following packing supplies on-hand: boxes, marking pen, bubble wrap, newspaper, tape, scissors and a tape measure.
• Keep boxes to 50 lbs or less. Put heavier items in small boxes and lighter items in big boxes.
• Pack non-breakables tightly in smaller boxes so they are not too heavy.
• Use clean newspapers to wrap items and bubble wrap for padding.
• Pack breakables loosely in plastic storage bins with lots of bubble wrap.
• Rent furniture pads.
• Mark your boxes by room so you know exactly where everything goes. Use color coding or a numbering system, such as blue stickers for your son’s bedroom or the number 1 for kitchen items.
• Use your towels and blankets to wrap fragile items.
• Write "FRAGILE" on all boxes containing breakables and stack these boxes on top.
• Purchase boxes specifically designed for certain household items, such as wardrobe boxes.
• Pack audio-video equipment in their original boxes. Label cables and tighten transit screws. Tape any removed screws to the objects they were removed from.
• Pack books tightly in small boxes. If they smell musty, sprinkle talcum powder between the pages and wrap the book before packing. Leave the books stored for a couple of months to eliminate the smell.
• Clean rugs and draperies before moving and leave them in the wrappings for the move.
• Pack medicine and medications in a leak-proof container.
• Carry all valuables with you.
• Check with your local U.S. Department of Agriculture for regulations regarding moving plants from one state to another since some states have restrictions in an effort to prevent importing bugs or pests that can destroy valuable cash crops.

Packing Large Items:

• Tie bed frames together with tape or rope then label the pieces so they are easy to reassemble.
• Fill drawers with clothes or fragile, well-wrapped items. Cover them with a blanket or with furniture pads and rope securely.
• Remove table legs, pad and tie together. Put nuts and bolts in a bag and tape them underneath the tabletop.
• Empty, defrost and drain the refrigerator, freezer and dishwasher. Clean the interiors and put accessories in bags. Stuff towels between washer sides to prevent rotating and tape down any moveable parts. Cover with blankets and tie.
• Use the original packaging for computers, televisions and electronics, or buy electronic-specific boxes.

Packing Small Items:

• Put your microwave, VCR and other small appliances into boxes and cushion with wadded paper.
• Pack books flat in small cartons, alternating bindings. Try to keep each box under 30 lbs.
• Pack hanging items, such as clothing and drapes, in wardrobe boxes. Leave small items in drawers.
• Wrap fragile collectibles in bubble wrap and tape them securely.
• Pack CD’s upright and cushion with them newspaper.
• Stack pots and pans and cushion with them paper.
• Place any kitchen items you will need immediately in a separate box and label appropriately so you know which one to unpack first.
• Wrap dishes individually in bubble wrap and never stack them flat. Pack plates on saucers on edges and place cups and bowls around them.

Packing Awkward Items:

• Wrap chair arms and legs with bubble wrap. Place slipcovers on chairs or buy chair bags for protection.
• Loosen the handlebars from bicycles and turn them sideways. Cover chains and pedals to keep grease off other items.
• Wrap small items, such as mirrors and artwork, in newsprint and pack in mirror boxes. Cover larger pieces with cardboard, tape them securely and stand them along the sides of the truck or inside wardrobe boxes.
• Disassemble heavy lawn furniture. Put nuts and bolts in a bag and tie together.
• Roll up rugs and secure with rope or tape.
• Place plants in plastic bags with air holes then in boxes. Water them before you leave.
• Wrap sharp edges of tools and use plenty of cushioning to prevent injury. Tape long-handled tools together and place smaller ones in boxes.
• Empty gasoline from all tanks of lawnmowers and edgers and check for oil leaks.
• Use medium-sized boxes for garage and attic items, such as spray paints, brushes and car waxes. Throw away oily rags or anything combustible.
• Keep pets in a pet carrier up front with you. Ask your vet for suggestions on how to make their move less traumatic.