Now that you are thinking about moving, it is time to begin to think about the packing process and what all is involved. You will want to start early, so as to give yourself time to sort through all that you have accumulated throughout the years. The less you have to transport, the easier the moving process will be.
Below are some general packing guidelines:
- The least used items in your household should be packed first.
- Don’t forget to mark fragile clearly for your mover.
- Pack one room at a time. Put appropriate label to each box indicating its contents and room name.
- Put heavy items in small boxes.
- Make sure that boxes are taped well to hold their contents.
- Put heavier items on the bottom and the lighter ones on top.
Items Not to Pack
Items which are classified as dangerous or hazardous will not be accepted by movers for transport. You can dispose these certain items properly before you move or you may want to find an alternate way to transport these items.
Included in the items that cannot be moved by your movers are:
•Paints and Paint Thinner
•Batteries
•Aerosol Cans, Bleach, and Cleaning Supplies
•Pressurized Tanks
•Loaded Firearms and Ammunition
•Gasoline or Kerosene or Other Flammable Chemicals
•Perishable Foods in Glass Jars
Any items of great value should remain in your possession during the move. These items include:
•Cash
•Legal Documents
•Passports
•Stock/Bond Certificates
•Jewelry
•Any Contents of your Safety Deposit Box
•Irreplaceable Family Mementos
Packing Materials You Will Need
You’ll need to collect all of the materials needed for packing before you start. Here are the recommended materials for packing furnishings:
•Cartons: Be sure that the cartons that you’ll use are in good shape and will not fall apart. Check if any of its corners are crushed and the covers are intact. You can buy cartons in various shapes and sizes from your movers.
•Packing Paper: Use packing paper instead of newspaper. The ink on newsprint will rub off on and damage your items. You can also purchase packing paper from your movers.
•Bubble Wrap and Tissue: Use these supplies to wrap delicate or fragile items.
•Packing Tape: The best tape to use is plastic and approximately 1.5 to 2 inches wide. Using masking tape is not recommended.
•Markers: Use a black marker to label each carton with the room name and contents.
•Scissors and/or Cutting Blades
Other Tips For Specific Items:
•Computers: Make backup copies of all your files on the computer. Remove and individually wrap all detachable cords and cables. If the original packaging is still available, it is suggested to use them. If the original packaging and carton is not available, use plenty of padding to protect these items. Be sure to remove the ink cartridge when packing printers before transport.
•Glassware: Use 2 pieces of packing paper to pack each glass then fold the 4 corners into the glass. This will serve as a protective lining for the second glass to be inserted into. Do the same procedure you did on the third glass then add the fourth glass and stack onto the other glasses. Wrap the stack with several pieces of packing paper and tape securely to the bundle. Place the bundles upright in a carton. Be sure to pack the carton with newspaper bundles at the bottom for extra protection. Separately pack stemware. Place newspapers on top of the items for additional security. Once you’re done, securely tape the carton and mark it as “Fragile-Glassware”.
•Dishware: Along the bottom and sides of the packing carton, place wadded newspaper. Put the first plate in the center of a stack of packing paper then wrap 2 sheets over the plate. Place the second plate over the first one then repeat. Continue this procedure until you have a bundle of four plates. Tape the bundle securely. Place the bundle in the box on its edge instead of flat in the carton. For extra protection, add extra wadded newspapers to the top of the box. Secure the carton with tape then mark the box “Fragile-Glassware”.
•Lampshades: Between each shade, place packing papers then nest together into a single stack. Lampshades should not be packed with other items. Shades which are made of silk, should not be nested with others and should be packed in a carton alone. Pad the carton using packing paper before sealing it.
•Pictures and Paintings: Place an “X” of masking tape over the glass to help protect the picture itself in case the glass is broken during transport. Wrap small pictures individually with bubble wrap and place upright in the packing carton. Fill the cartons with towels and/or bedding for extra padding. Larger items, including mirrors, should be specially packed by your movers. Once all of your pictures are packed, fill the carton with extra packing paper and seal the carton. Mark the box “Fragile-Pictures/Paintings.
Source: http://www.allncrealestate.com/real-estate-tips/packing-tips-big-move/