Moving Tips

Preparation

Materials Needed for Moving:

• Tissue paper
• Packing paper (plain newsprint)
• 2″ packing tape
• Masking tape
• A utility knife
• Scissors
• Permanent markers
• Professional quality boxes

Packing Materials for Your Move

• Dishpack (or China Barrel): Heavy duty carton for dishes/china, crystal, and glassware.
• 1.5 cu. ft. cartons: Small carton for heavy items such as books, files, music CDs, and DVDs/video tapes.
• 3.0 cu. ft. cartons: Medium utility carton for pots and pans, toys, and small appliances.
• 4.5 cu. ft. cartons: For bulky items such as linens, towels, or toys.
• 6.0 cu. ft. cartons: For large, bulky, or lightweight articles such as pillows or large lampshades.
• Wardrobe cartons: A “portable closet” that keeps clothes or draperies hanging on a built-in bar.
• Mirror cartons: Telescoping cartons for framed pictures, mirrors, or glass.
• Mattress cartons: Available in queen/king, double, single (twin), and crib sizes. A separate carton is necessary for box springs.
• Stretchwrap: A special plastic covering that safely adheres to furniture and protects it from snags, tears, and dirt.

Packing Tips for Moving

Basic Moving Tips:

• Follow a timetable: People often underestimate how long it takes to pack.
• Start with non-essential items: Begin with belongings stored in the basement, garage, or attic.
• Room-by-room packing: Helps you stay organized.
• Establish work areas: In each room.
• Sort packed boxes by weight: Light, medium, heavy to make loading the moving van easier and quicker.
• Limit carton weight: Maximum weight of 50 pounds.

Packing Techniques:

• Cushioning: Pack loosely crumpled, plain newsprint at the bottom of boxes; leave room at the top for more crumpled paper.
• Wrapping: Wrap all fragile items in paper before packing.
• Packing order: Pack large and heavy items first, smaller items next, filling in all empty spaces with plain newsprint.
• Use sturdy cartons: Ensure cartons can be easily closed (don’t overstuff) and tape top seams securely.
• Label clearly: Include your name, room where the box should go, and a brief description of the contents.

Electronics Care:

• Large screen TV and other electronics:
  • If original packing materials are unavailable, use a sturdy carton lined with newsprint or styrofoam “peanuts”.
  • Seal the carton and mark it “Extremely Fragile”.
• Personal computer, printer, scanner, or other equipment:
  • Disconnect and mark all wires and cables.
  • Detach paper holders/feeders from printers and wrap monitors and additional hardware.
  • Remove toner and ink cartridges.
  • Back up all computer files on DVDs or other storage devices.
  • Consult your PC user manual for additional instructions and precautions.

Moving Tips for Garage & Storage

Garage Packing Tips:

• Dispose of non-shippable items: Pesticides, fertilizers, oil, and gas.
• Group similar items: Long-handled tools with pruning shears.
• Proper wrapping and cushioning: Use an assortment of boxes and newsprint.

Tools:

• Long-handled garden tools: Bundle securely.
• Hand tools: Pack in toolboxes with crushed paper or according to general packing rules.
• Power tools: Safely drain oil and gas.

Rakes & Brooms:

• Gather for your driver to bundle in a pad.

Lawn & Patio Furniture:

• Cushions: Remove and clean frames. Pack in large carton or wardrobe.

Umbrella:

• Wrap and protect: Use paper padding or a plastic bag.

Grill:

• Charcoal: Dispose of unused charcoal. Remove tank – it cannot be transported in the moving van.

Outdoor Equipment:

• Dismantle before moving day: Children’s swing sets, TV antennas, garden sheds.
• Hardware: Place small parts in a plastic bag or old coffee can and label.

Pots and Planters:

• Small planters: Wrap individually with plenty of cushioning.
• Large or unusual planters: Consult your moving professional.

Moving Tips: Non-Transportable Items

Hazardous Materials:

• Examples include:
  • Nail polish remover
  • Paints and paint thinners
  • Lighter fluid
  • Gasoline
  • Fireworks
  • Oxygen bottles
  • Propane cylinders
  • Automotive repair and maintenance chemicals
  • Radio-pharmaceuticals
  • Matches

Other Items Not Recommended for Transport:

• Firearms
• Food in glass jars and perishable foods
• Prescription drugs needed for immediate use

Items of Personal Importance or Sentimental Value:

• Transport these items with you:
  • Cash
  • Collections (e.g., coins)
  • Family photos
  • Important personal papers (e.g., deeds, wills)
  • Negotiable papers (e.g., bonds, stocks, certificates)
  • Jewelry
  • Moving documents

These moving tips will help you organize and execute your move more efficiently. By following these tips, you’ll ensure your belongings are safely packed and ready for the journey to your new home.