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Use proper packing materials. Sturdy boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, packing peanuts, etc., can all be purchased at local moving or shipping companies. Items like old linens or blankets, old newspapers, and old pillows make more earth-friendly packing materials and will help trim dollars off of moving costs. Check out AllBoxes Direct
(www.allboxes.com), or U-Haul (www.uhaul.com) for a wide selection of boxes and supplies. Sturdy used boxes can often be found at wholesale companies at no charge.
Following is a list of tools and materials to make your packing go more smoothly:
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Hand tools (utility knife and/or scissors, socket wrenches,
Leatherman® tool, hammer)
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Note pad
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Dark, water-resistant marker
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Boxes of all sizes
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Packing tape
(2-inch)
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Bubble wrap
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Peanuts
Pack one room at a time, labeling each box
(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
the word "Fragile." Remember to mark which direction is up on boxes that contain items that should remain upright. To make unpacking easier, keep a detailed list of what items are in each box.
Use the proper tools and materials,
and don't scrimp on tape. Regular cellophane tape or masking tape just
won't do the job. Packing tape is made from stronger material and has
more adhesive. Using it liberally will help ensure your boxes stay
together and that your belongings don't wind up scattered all over a
street or parking lot.
Empty all drawers of breakable or spillable items. To prevent damage, put all furniture knobs, feet, screws, etc., in a container that you 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.
Pack according to the seasons if you'll be putting some boxes in storage, and mark the boxes accordingly.
Wrap fragile 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.
Put heavy items in small boxes so that they're easier to carry. Make sure boxes are firmly packed with heavier items on the bottom and lighter ones on top.
To make loading and unloading easier, be sure items you'll need first (e.g., kids toys, kitchen items, telephone and radio) are loaded last when packing the truck.
Use common sense and avoid overloading your truck by keeping in mind the size, sturdiness, and weight of each of the items you're moving. Load heavier items near the floor and closest to the cab. Be sure to brace the load so it won't shift while the truck is moving.
Packing a separate bag with toiletries, a change of clothes, etc., will avoid unnecessary scrambling or an extra run to the store.
Move on a weekday, if possible, so banks, utilities, and government offices will be open.
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