Packing Tips

Packing supplies you’ll need:

• Strong packing boxes
• Several rolls of packing tape
• Bubble wrap
• Packing peanuts
• Tissue paper
• A variety of colored permanent markers and/or packing labels
• Tools to open boxes
• Old sheets or blankets to protect the edges of furniture

Boxes:

• Get more than you think you’ll need.
• Pack one room at a time. Label each box with the room name, as well as contents. This will assist in unpacking later.
• Fill boxes up as much space as you can. Shifting contents can cause damage. Fill spaces with items you would take anyway – towels, sock, pillow cases.
• When possible, put heavier items in smaller boxes and lighter items in larger boxes. If not, put heavy items on the bottom with lighter items at the top.
• Try keeping box weight under 50 pounds each.

Kitchen Items:

• Use bubble wrap or newspaper to wrap breakables.
• Put bubble wrap between each bowl or plate.
• Use crumpled newspaper at the top of each box to protect items.
• For maximum protection, pack plates vertically, not stacked on top of each other.
• Wrap all other items before placing in the box, especially sharp items like knives and forks.

Home Essentials:

Create a box of essential items that you will pack last and open first. Things to include:

• Lightbulbs, batteries, flashlight, tape measure and screwdrivers.
• Toiletries such as towels, soaps, shampoos, toilet paper and shower curtains.
• Kitchen items like napkins, paper plates, plastic forks, knives and spoons, dish detergent and a sponge.

Lawn Tools:

• Drain gas and oil from lawnmowers, trimmers and chain saws.
• Wrap any blades and other sharp tools.
• Mark attachments and pack separately.

Other Tools:

• Place small tools in a toolbox
• Place power tools in cases, if available.
• Tie tools of the same length together—rakes, shovels, etc.
• Cover any sharp edges and label boxes clearly to prevent injuries later.

Moving Your Car:

Consult with your mover on how to move cars, motorcycles, boats and personal watercraft. The best way to move your car is to drive it. If this isn’t possible, consider other options:

• Use a trailer attached to the moving truck.
• Hire an “auto shipper” to transport your car.

What NOT to Pack:

• Flammable liquids like alcohol, paint, varnish, gasoline, kerosene, aerosol cans, nail polish and remover.
• Ammunition, explosives, fireworks, corrosives.
• Cleaning liquids.