Determine the move: | Room
By Room Packing Tips: | | | | Other Tips | |
Do-It Yourself Packing or Full Service
Move?
If you decide to pack
yourself, consider the time and effort necessary to properly protect your
belongings. While in most cases you can save money by doing your own packing, it
is strongly recommended you let a professional pack any fragile or valuable
items. With a professional moving
company, you have the option of doing some or all of the packing yourself, or
you can leave it to the experts. Discuss your options with your moving
company. Packing Guidelines
If you decide to do at least some of the
packing yourself, then you will need to have everything properly packed and
ready for loading when the van arrives. All packing must be completed by the
evening before moving day. Only the things you'll need that night, the next
morning, and immediately at your new destination should be left for last-minute
packing. Back to top What
Needs to be Packed?
As a general
rule, furniture and major appliances will be wrapped and padded by your moving
company. Items requiring professional disassembly and/or crating - such as slate
pool tables, chandeliers, or large glass table tops - are best left to the
professionals. For more information on specific items, the Packing Guide
provides tips and hints for packing every room in the house. Back to top Boxes - What Do You
Need?
Using new, quality packing
materials specifically designed for moving can really make the difference in
ensuring that your items arrive at their destination safely. Professional moving
cartons come in a variety of shapes and sizes that are specifically suited to
fit a variety of household goods. Dish
Pack (or China Barrel)
Extra
sturdy corrugated carton of double-wall construction for all breakables such as
china and dishes, crystal and glassware. You may also want to use cellular
dividers inside the carton as an extra measure of protection.
Small (Book Carton) - 1.5 cu. ft.
carton
A small, easy to handle
carton designed for heavy items such as books and records.
Medium - 3 cu. ft.
carton
Medium utility box often
used for pots and pans, toys, non-perishable food and small appliances.
Large (Square/ Lamp) - 4.5 cu. ft.
carton
For bulky items such as
linens, towels, toys or lampshades.
Large (Rectangular/ Lamp) - 6.0 cu. ft.
carton
For lightweight bulky
articles such as pillows, blankets and large lampshades.
Wardrobe Carton
This large carton has a hangar bar to
accommodate clothes from your closet or draperies.
Mirror Carton
Telescoping cartons fit almost any picture,
mirror or glass.
Mattress Carton
Available in king, queen, double, single
(twin) and crib sizes; you'll need one for every box spring and every
mattress. Other supplies: - bundles
of packing paper (clean, unprinted newsprint)
- bubble wrap, tissue paper, or paper towels for
delicate items
- rolls of PVC tape
- tape dispenser
- broad-tipped markers for labeling
- scissors or sharp knife for cutting cartons
- notebook and pen or pencil for listing
contents of cartons as they are packed.
- labels or stickers for identifying
boxes
Back to top Getting
Started
Before packing cartons,
you'll need to wrap most items to protect them from scratching and breakage.
There are a variety of materials available, including bubble pack, foam peanuts
and tissue. However, most professional moving companies use bundles of clean,
unprinted newsprint (available at your moving supply store). Start by placing a small stack of paper on a
flat, uncluttered table or countertop. Round glasses and jars can be rolled up
in two or three sheets of paper; always begin from a corner of the sheet and
fold the sides in as you roll. Large or
odd-shaped items require a similar technique. Place them in the center of the
sheet and bring the corners together. It may be necessary to flip the item over
and wrap it again from the other side. If in doubt, use more paper! When the
corners are brought together, secure them with tape. Before packing each carton, line the bottom
with a few inches of wadded paper for padding. Then place large, heavy items on
the bottom and lighter, more fragile items on the top. Plates, books and things of a similar shape,
should be loaded vertically to utilize their own maximum structural strength.
Don't overload cartons; keep them to a manageable weight. Fill in any voids and
top off loaded cartons with wadded paper. Then tape cartons securely to avoid
shifting while en route. Back to top Packing Tips Start with out-of-season items. Next, pack
things used infrequently. Leave until the last minute things you'll need until
moving day. - Do not use masking tape or narrow cellophane
tape. You will find PVC (poly-vinyl chloride) to be the most effective.
- Use newspapers only for cushioning
not for wrapping items. The ink on the newspapers will rub off and can stain
items such as fine china.
- Label
each and every carton. Use a broad, felt-tipped marker, clearly marking room and
contents. Indicate "FRAGILE" on delicates; "THIS END UP" where appropriate, and,
if available, include your bill of lading number on every box.
- Limit cartons to a maximum weight
of 50 pounds
- Empty drawers of breakables, spillables,
non-transportable items and anything that would puncture or damage other items.
- Pack similar items together. Do not
pack a delicate china figurine in the same carton with cast-iron frying pans,
for example.
- Keep all parts or pairs of things together.
For example, curtain rod hangers, mirror bolts and other small hardware items
should be placed in plastic bags and taped or tied securely to the article to
which they belong.
- Wind electrical cords, fastening them so they
do not dangle.
- Wrap items individually in clean
paper; use tissue paper, paper towels or even facial tissue for fine china,
crystal and delicate items. Colored wrapping paper draws attention to very small
things that might otherwise get lost in a carton. Use a double layer of
newsprint for a good outer wrapping.
- Place a two- or three-inch layer of crushed
paper in the bottom of cartons for cushioning.
- Build up the layers, with the
heaviest things on the bottom, medium weight next and lightest on top.
- As each layer is completed, fill in
empty spaces firmly with crushed paper and add more crushed paper to make a
level base for the next layer, or use sheets of cardboard cut from cartons as
dividers.
- Cushion well with crushed paper; towels and
lightweight blankets may also be used for padding and cushioning. The more
fragile the item, the more cushioning needed. Be sure no sharp points, edges or
rims are left uncovered.
- Pack small, fragile, individually-wrapped
items separately or a few together in small boxes, cushioning with crushed or
shredded paper. Place small boxes in a single large box, filling in spaces with
crushed paper.
- Avoid overloading cartons, but strive for a
firm pack that will prevent items from shifting; the cover should close easily
without force, but should not bend inward.
- Seal cartons tightly with tape except for
those containing items that must be left open for the van operator's inspection.
- As you finish with each carton,
list the contents on the side of the carton (for easy viewing while stacked) and
in a special notebook. You might want to number and/or code the cartons as well.
Use a broad, felt-tipped marker; Indicate "FRAGILE" on delicates; "THIS END UP"
where appropriate; If available, include your bill of lading number on every
box.
- Indicate your name and the room to which each
carton should be delivered at destination. Tape a sign on the door of each room
at destination corresponding to the carton labels so movers can get the cartons
into the proper rooms quickly.
- Put a special mark (the number 1, or the
letter A) on cartons you want to unpack first at destination.
Back to top Room
By Room Packing How To GARAGE/STORAGE Garages and storage sheds typically are filled
with odd-shaped, sharp or heavy items that require special care to pack
correctly. In addition, there may be items such as pesticides, fertilizers, oil
and gas that cannot be shipped. See our list of Items That Cannot Be
Shipped. Begin by grouping items of a
similar size or shape together, like long-handled tools with pruning shears.
Then, make sure you have an assortment of boxes and newsprint to properly wrap
and cushion items.
Tools - Long-handled garden tools, as well as brooms
and mops, should be bundled together securely. Attachments should be removed
from power tools and packed separately. All power tools must be drained of oil
and gas before packing.
- Hand tools may be left in tool boxes and the
spaces filled with crushed paper, or they may be packed according to general
packing rules. Always use small cartons for heavy tools.
- Use old towels to wrap and tape any
sharp-edged tools.
Rakes & Brooms Shovels, rakes, brooms and the like need not
be packed; gather them together for your driver to bundle in a pad. Lawn
& Patio Furniture Remove
pads and clean frames. Pack pads in large carton or wardrobe. Umbrella Keep it clean and dry during transport by
wrapping it in paper padding or a plastic bag and taping shut. Do not pack the
weighted umbrella stand.
Grill Dispose of any unused charcoal. Remove tank -
it cannot be transported in the moving van. See our list of Items That Cannot Be
Shipped.
Outdoor Equipment Before moving day, dismantle children's swing
sets, TV antennas and garden sheds you plan to take with you.
- Place
small hardware in a plastic bag or old coffee can and label.
- If the parts bag can be securely
attached to corresponding equipment, all the better.
- Prepare lawn mower by safely
draining gasoline prior to loading day.
Pots and Planters Pack small ceramic or pottery planters like
any fragile item - individually wrapped with plenty of cushioning. If you plan
to move any large or unusual planters, consult your moving company. Trash Cans It may be easier just to buy new garbage cans
at your destination. - Clean cans if you plan to take them with you.
- If your cans are sealable or
rollable, you may pack items in them, just don't make them too heavy.
Vehicles You have the option of moving your vehicles
with your household goods, or separately by using a automotive transport service
provider.
Let your moving company know if you have any
of the following items: - riding mower
- gas leaf blower
- snow blower
- motor scooter
- moped
- trampoline
- above-ground swimming pool
- hot tub
- satellite dish
- storage shed
- swing set
- jungle gym
- dog house or kennel
Back to top HOME
OFFICE DEN Your home office
will likely contain your important paperwork and legal papers. Set these aside
beforehand and plan to take them with you. Computer equipment and other
valuables that exceed $100 per pound will need to be listed on your "High Value
Inventory" form to receive proper valuation coverage.
Home Computer Back up all files on a floppy disc, CD or tape
and take with you. Label cords and cables and pack them in the same box as the
appropriate electronic equipment. Home
Copier If your home copier is
larger than desk size, it must be serviced by a professional before
transport. - Remove the paper tray and cartridge.
- Secure the document cover, exit
tray and alternate paper tray before packing.
- If your unit comes with shipping
pins, which keep the internal parts in place during transit, they should be
removed from the storage location on the document cover and placed according to
directions in the owner's manual.
Home
Printer The toner and laser
cartridges of any laser printer should be removed. Dispose of them safely and
get new ones at your destination. On other types of printers, the print head
should be secured by a professional, with preparation depending on the model.
Books Pack books of the same general size together,
in small book cartons. - Pack them either flat, or with the spine
touching the bottom of the carton. Do not pack with spine facing upward, as glue
can break away from the binder.
- Expensively bound volumes of those of
sentimental value should be individually wrapped before packing.
Back to top BEDROOM/NURSERY/BATHROOM Start packing your bedrooms by tackling
less-used guest rooms first. Children can help by setting aside the toys and
books they want to take with them and packing the rest in boxes. Colorful
stickers on the outside of boxes let children know their personal belongings are
clearly marked, and allow them to identify their things when the moving van is
unloaded. Clothing Hanging clothing from closets can be left on
hangars and placed in wardrobe cartons. You may want to consider purchasing
several of these special cartons from your moving company. One will hold about
two feet of compressed clothing on hangers; figure more cartons if wrinkles are
a concern. - If wardrobe cartons are not used, each garment
should be removed from its hangar, folded and placed in a suitcase or a carton
lined with clean paper.
- It is recommended that you take your furs with
you rather than having them moved on the van, as irreparable damage can occur
due to heat or humidity.
Shoes Footwear may be left in shoe boxes and placed
in large cartons, or wrapped individually and then in pairs. Footwear should be
cushioned to avoid damage to heels or ornaments. Do not pack heavy items on top
of shoes. Hats Hats may be left in hatboxes and placed in
large cartons, or stuff the crown of each hat with crumpled tissue paper, wrap
tissue loosely around the outside and place in a carton lined with clean paper,
with the heavier hats at the bottom. Don't pack anything else with hats. Label
the carton "FRAGILE." Jewelry Valuables such as fine jewelry should be
removed from drawers and never packed with your household goods. They will be
most secure if they remain in your possession. If you don't feel comfortable or
don't have the means to take your fine jewelry or other valuable collectibles
with you (like stamp or coin collections), consider hiring a third-party armored
vehicle service. Toiletries Dispose of aerosol spray cans, such as hair
spray or deodorant, or take them with you. Other bottles should be carefully
taped shut and wrapped to prevent leakage, then packed in small cartons. See our
list of Items That Cannot Be Shipped. Bedding, Linens & Towels Blankets, sheets, tablecloths, towels,
pillowcases and other linens may be protected by a large plastic bag and packed
in a carton that has been lined with clean paper.
Wrap
you most prized possessions in tissue. Also, linens and bedding are good for
cushioning or padding many other items.
If you decide to wash your linens
before you pack them, make sure they are thoroughly dried first. Mattresses & Pillows Mattresses should be placed in mattress
cartons for added strength and cleanliness. Pillows may be placed in bureau
drawers or packed in cartons. They also make good padding for other items. Bed
Frame If you can dismantle any
bed frames beforehand, it will be one less thing to worry about on moving
day. Mirrors Glass mirrors should be packed in special
mirror cartons. However, if they are especially heavy, crating is recommended.
Draperies & Curtains Wardrobe cartons are ideal for moving curtains
and drapes. Fold them lengthwise, place over a padded hangar, pin securely and
hang in the wardrobe. Draperies and curtains also may be folded and packed in
cartons lined with clean paper or plastic wrap. Rugs Leave area rugs on the floor for the moving
company to handle. - You may want to consider having your area rugs
professionally cleaned before your move - you'll get them back from the cleaners
wrapped, rolled and ready for shipping.
- Area rugs should be loaded last and unloaded
first so the furniture coming off the truck can go right on top of the rug.
Back to top LIVING/FAMILY/GREAT ROOM Most pictures and mirrors can be wrapped and
packed in telescoping mirror cartons. Fragile or valuable fine art may require
special crating and should be handled by your moving professional. Stereo Equipment Advance preparation is required for compact
disc players, digital video disc players and stereo turntables.
On
compact and digital video disc players, secure the laser with transport screws
located on the bottom or back of the unit.
Most turntables have a plastic lock
which should be used to hold the tone arm in place. For additional protection,
you may tie a piece of string around the arm in case the lock does not hold.
Also, secure the platter (where the records are placed) by tightening the
appropriate screws. These are usually located on top of the turntable, but check
you owner's manual if in doubt.
Speakers Pack speakers in well-cushioned dish packs.
- Any large or unusually heavy speakers will
simply be padded and placed on the truck.
- Servicing is usually not required prior to
packing for tape deck, receiver or speakers.
Television Some large televisions will need to be crated
prior to moving day. Let your moving company know if you have a big screen or
plasma television. - Call your local cable company to request your
service discontinued. If you have a converter box, return the box and keep the
receipt for future reference. Contact your cable company at your destination to
order service in your new home.
- When choosing a location for your TV in your
new home, place it on a hard surface at least six feet from your normal viewing
position. Most TVs should not be placed in an enclosed space unless proper
ventilation is provided.
- Pack your remote controls in the same carton
with their corresponding units or pack them all in a clearly marked separate
box.
Videocassette Recorder (VCR) No special servicing is required to move a
VCR. When installing at destination, place on a hard surface, provide
appropriate ventilation for openings and do not set objects on top. Satellite Dish and Antennas Contact an electrician or technician from a
satellite dish distributorship for the disconnection and disassembly of this
sensitive equipment. Depending upon the construction and size of the unit, it
may need to be crated, a service which your moving professional can provide.
Have any outside antennas disconnected and taken down if they are to be included
in your move. Compact Discs, Tapes and
Records Stand compact discs and
records on edge, never flat, on a layer of crushed paper. Support at both ends
with large, hardcover books or or several pieces of cardboard cut to fit. Top
with another layer of crushed paper. Identify contents on the outside of the box
and mark, "FRAGILE." - Cassette tapes should be placed in their cases
and wrapped individually in crumpled paper. Place individual tapes either
vertically or horizontally on a couple of layers of crushed paper.
- If records are not in jackets, wrap
individually in tissue paper or plastic wrap to protect from scratches. Records
are heavy and therefore should be packed in small cartons.
Books Pack books of the same general size together,
in small book cartons. - Pack them either flat, or with the spine
touching the bottom of the carton. Do not pack with spine facing upward, as glue
can break away from the binder.
- Expensively bound volumes or those of
sentimental value should be individually wrapped before packing.
Photographs Family photographs, videos, slides and
negatives should be packed in separate cartons rather than being combined with
other households items. (Note: watch these when moving to very hot or humid
climates by making sure the storage area protects items from the elements.)
- Protect framed photos with padding and
cushioning, standing them on edge in a carton. Label cartons for easy
identification.
- If possible, carry irreplaceable items with
you to destination.
Silk or Artificial Flowers An arrangement of artificial flowers should be
packed in a separate carton. Wrap carefully in plastic wrap, tissue paper or
paper towels. If possible, fasten the base of the floral piece to the bottom of
the carton to prevent shifting. Label the carton "FRAGILE - THIS SIDE UP."
Lamp Bases After removing the light bulb and lamp harp,
wrap the base, harp and bulb separately in newsprint. Place them together in a
carton, filling voids with wadded paper. Lamp
Shades Never wrap lamp shades
in newspaper, as the ink will soil the shade. Instead, carefully wrap each shade
in three or four sheets of tissue paper, a pillowcase or a large lightweight
towel. - Use a sturdy carton at least two inches bigger
all around than the largest shade. Line it with clean paper, using crushed paper
under the lamp shade to create a protective layer, but not around the shade. A
smaller shade may be nested inside a larger one, provided they do not touch.
Only one silk shade should be placed in a carton to avoid stretching the
silk.
- Do not pack other items with shades. Label
cartons "LAMP SHADES - FRAGILE - TOP LOAD ONLY."
Chandeliers and Leaded Glass
Shades It is best to have your
moving professional crate large leaded or other glass lamp shades or
chandeliers. Glass Table Tops, Marble Slabs, Large Mirrors,
Paintings, Statues & Large Vases It's best to consult with your moving
professional about custom-made cartons and crates for items of this kind. Paper
should never be permitted to touch the surface of an oil painting. Rugs Leave area rugs on the floor for the moving
company to handle. - You may want to consider having your area rugs
professionally cleaned before your move - you'll get them back from the cleaners
wrapped, rolled and ready for shipping.
- Area rugs should be loaded last and unloaded
first so the furniture coming off the truck can go right on top of the rug.
TV Stand/ Stereo Cabinet Remove glass doors if possible and pack in a
mirror carton. Furniture Your van operator will shrink wrap large,
upholstered items. - Talk to your moving professional beforehand
about any leather items.
- Table corners can be protected with cardboard.
- You may want to consider packing
couch pillows in large boxes.
Piano A qualified service provider should take care
of the preparations for moving a grand or baby grand piano. - Upright
(spinet, console, studio) pianos usually do not require preparation in advance.
All pianos are pad-wrapped to protect the surface.
- Plan to have your piano tuned at
your new home.
Pool Table Disassembly and crating of your pool table
should be provided by a third-party service. If possible, contact the store
where the pool table was purchased to obtain assistance. - Crating
is a possibility on slate.
- You will need to make arrangements at
destination to have the pool table uncrated, reassembled and leveled.
Back to top DINING
ROOM The dining room will
generally include your most fragile china and crystal stemware. Each item should
be carefully wrapped in paper and placed in dish pack cartons; cellular dividers
are recommended for stemware. You will also want to include any items with
values exceeding $100 per pound on your "High Value Inventory" form to receive
proper valuation coverage. China & Glassware Wrap all pieces of china and glassware
individually. Using several sheets of clean paper, start from the corner,
wrapping diagonally and continuously tucking in overlapping edges. - A
generous amount of paper padding and cushioning is required for all china and
glassware.
- A
double layer of newsprint serves well as outer wrapping.
- Label cartons with room, contents
and "FRAGILE - THIS SIDE UP."
Flat
China & Flat Glassware Place cushioning material in the bottom of a
carton. Wrap each piece individually with clean paper, then wrap up to three in
a bundle with a double layer of newsprint. Place these bundled items in the
carton in a row on edge. Plates, platters and other flat serving pieces should
be wrapped individually and loaded vertically on their edges to utilize their
own maximum structural strength. - Larger china and glass plates, platters and
other flat pieces are excellent as the lowest layer in a dish pack.
- Surround each bundle with crushed
paper, being careful to leave no voids or unfilled spaces.
- Add two or three inches of wadded
paper on top of the bundle to protect rims and make a level base for the next
tier.
- Horizontal cardboard dividers can be helpful
in keeping layers level.
- Smaller plates, saucers and shallow bowls
could make up a second layer. Wrap and pack in the same way as larger items.
Cups If not using cellular dividers, wrap cups
individually first in a double layer of paper and place them upside down on rims
in a row on an upper layer with all handles facing the same direction. Top off
the layer with wadded newsprint. Even when using a dish pack and cellular
dividers, wrap china cups individually first, protecting handles with an extra
layer of clean paper. Then, pack cups upside down. Silver & Flatware
To
protect silver pieces from tarnishing, they should be completely enclosed in
newsprint or plastic wrap. - Hollow ware -- including bowls, tea sets and
serving dishes - should be wrapped carefully like fragile items and packed like
china.
- Loose flatware may be wrapped individually or
in sets, and in paper, clear plastic or small gift boxes that are then secured
with tape.
- Even if silverware is in a chest, consider
wrapping the pieces individually and reposition them in the chest. Or, fill all
voids in the chest with newsprint to prevent shifting. The chest can be wrapped
in a large bath towel.
Figurines, Curios and Other Delicate
Items Be sure the items are
well-protected with plenty of cushioning. - Wrap
first in tissue paper, paper towels or facial tissue. Then, wrap carefully in
paper that has been wadded and flattened out.
- Small mirrors, plaques and pictures
should be wrapped individually in tissue paper with an outer layer of newsprint.
- A bath towel or small blanket makes
an excellent outer wrapping and padding for glass.
- Place flat items on edge in a
carton.
Fragile Items Consult with your Moving Professional on the
packing of exceptionally fragile items. Items with values exceeding $100 per
pound need to be listed on your "High Value Inventory" form to receive proper
valuation coverage. If an item is extremely valuable as well as delicate, it
might be wise to have it packed for you. Special materials might be needed for
maximum protection. Lamp Bases After removing the light bulb and lamp harp,
wrap the base, harp and bulb separately in newsprint. Place them together in a
carton, filling voids with wadded paper. Lamp
Shades
Never wrap lamp shades in newspaper, as the
ink will soil the shade. Instead, carefully wrap each shade in three or four
sheets of tissue paper, a pillowcase or a large lightweight towel. - Use a
sturdy carton at least two inches bigger all around than the largest shade. Line
it with clean paper, using crushed paper under the lamp shade to create a
protective layer, but not around the shade.
- A smaller shade may be nested
inside a larger one, provided they do not touch.
- Only one silk shade should be
placed in carton to avoid stretching the silk.
- Do not pack other items with
shades.
- Label cartons "LAMP SHADES - FRAGILE - TOP
LOAD ONLY."
Chandeliers and Leaded Glass
Shades It is best to have your
moving professional crate large leaded or other glass lamp shades or
chandeliers.
Glass Table Tops, Marble Slabs, Large
Mirrors, Paintings, Statues & Large Vases It's best to consult with your moving company
about custom-made cartons and crates for items of this kind. Paper should never
be permitted to touch the surface of an oil painting. Table Leaves Table leaves are best transported in paper
pads, then taped to hold the padding in place. (Note: never place tope on the
surface of wood.) Don't use plastic wrap, as moisture may get trapped and damage
wood. Draperies & Curtains Wardrobe cartons are ideal for moving curtains
and drapes. Fold them lengthwise, place over a padded hangar, pin securely and
hang in the wardrobe. Draperies and curtains also may be folded and packed in
cartons lined with clean paper or plastic wrap. Rugs Leave area rugs on the floor for the moving
company to handle. - You may want to consider having your area rugs
professionally cleaned before your move – you’ll get them back from the cleaners
wrapped, rolled and ready for shipping.
- Area rugs should be loaded last and unloaded
first so the furniture coming off the truck can go right on top of the rug.
Furniture Your van operator will shrink wrap large,
upholstered items. - Talk to your moving professional beforehand
about any leather items.
- Table corners can be protected with cardboard.
- You may want to consider packing
couch pillows in large boxes.
Back to top KITCHEN/LAUNDRY ROOM Once you know you're moving, you can begin
packing your kitchen almost immediately by starting with your less-used serving
dishes, seasonal items and small appliances. Next, tackle your large serving
bowls, tablecloths and specialty pots and pans. Keep your everyday dishes for
the last week before your move. You may even want to consider buying some
disposable plates, cups and utensils for those last few nights when everything
is packed away. Food Items Use or dispose of all perishables before
moving. You will also need to get rid of cleaning products and other kitchen
chemicals. See our list of Items That Cannot Be Shipped. Boxed or canned goods
should be packed in small boxes. Dispose of any open packages and wrap glass
jars to prevent breakage. China & Glassware Wrap all pieces of china and glassware
individually. Using several sheets of clean paper, start from the corner,
wrapping diagonally and continuously tucking in overlapping edges. A double
layer of newsprint serves well as outer wrapping. - A
generous amount of paper padding and cushioning is required for all china and
glassware.
- Label cartons with room, contents and "FRAGILE
- THIS SIDE UP."
Flat China & Flat Glassware
Larger china and glass plates, platters
and other flat pieces are excellent as the lowest layer in a dish pack. - Place
cushioning material in the bottom of a carton. Wrap each piece individually with
clean paper, then wrap up to three in a bundle with a double layer of newsprint.
Place these bundled items in the carton in a row on edge.
- Surround each bundle with crushed
paper, being careful to leave no voids or unfilled spaces. Add two or three
inches of wadded paper on top of the bundle to protect rims and make a level
base for the next tier. Horizontal cardboard dividers can be helpful in keeping
layers level.
- Smaller plates, saucers and shallow bowls
could make up a second layer. Wrap and pack in the same way as larger items.
Bowls and Odd-shaped Items Depending on their weight, these might be used
for either the bottom or middle layers. Wrap the same way as flat plates.
- Stand shallow bowls (soup plates, etc.) on
edge in the carton and deeper ones (such as mixing bowls) nested two or three
together, upside down on their rims.
- Wrap sugar bowl lids in newsprint, turning
them upside down on top of bowls. Then, wrap both together in newsprint,
followed by a double outer layer. Wrap sugar bowls, cream pitchers, sauce
containers, gravy boats and similar pieces in newsprint and then a double outer
wrapping. Place all upright in the carton, then top off the layer with wadded
newsprint.
Pots & Pans Pots, pans and similar items should be wrapped
and packed in medium size cartons. Depending on their weight, these might be
used for either the bottom or middle layers. Cups Even when using a dish pack and cellular
dividers, wrap china cups individually first, protecting handles with an extra
layer of clean paper. Then, pack cups upside down. If not using cellular
dividers, wrap cups individually first in a double layer of paper and place them
upside down on rims in a row on an upper layer with all handles facing the same
direction. Top off the layer with wadded newsprint. Silver & Flatware To protect silver pieces from tarnishing, they
should be completely enclosed in newsprint or plastic wrap. Hollow ware --
including bowls, tea sets and serving dishes - should be wrapped carefully like
fragile items and packed like china. - Loose
flatware may be wrapped individually or in sets, and in paper, clear plastic
bags or small gift boxes that are then secured with tape.
- Even if silverware is in a chest,
consider wrapping the pieces individually and repositioning them in the chest.
Or, fill all voids in the chest with newsprint to prevent shifting. The chest
can be wrapped in a large bath towel.
Figurines and Other Delicate
Items Be sure the items are
well-protected with plenty of cushioning. - Wrap
first in tissue paper, paper towels or facial tissue. Then, wrap carefully in
paper that has been wadded and flattened out.
- Small mirrors, plaques and pictures
should be wrapped individually in tissue paper with an outer layer of newsprint.
- A bath towel or small blanket makes
an excellent outer wrapping and padding for glass. Place items on edge in a
carton.
Fragile Items Consult with your Moving Professional on the
packing of exceptionally fragile items. - Items
with values exceeding $100 per pound will need to be listed on your "High Value
Inventory" form to receive proper valuation coverage.
- If an item is extremely valuable as
well as delicate, it might be wise to have it packed for you. Special materials
might be needed for maximum protection.
Back to top SMALL
APPLIANCES Moving Appliances Items such as clocks, small radios and other
small appliances should be wrapped individually and packed in a carton cushioned
with crushed paper. If their cords disconnect, wrap them in plastic and secure
them to the appliance they belong to. - Make
sure cords are wrapped so as not to scratch or damage items.
- Steam irons should be emptied of
all water, wrapped and placed in the cushioned bottom of a box.
Cookbooks Pack cookbooks of the same general size
together, in small book cartons. - Pack books either flat, or with the spine
touching the bottom of the carton. Do not pack with spine facing upward, as glue
can break away from the binder.
- Expensively bound volumes or those of
sentimental value should be individually wrapped before packing.
Back to top MOVING APPLIANCES In preparing large appliances for your move,
it is important that they be clean and dry to avoid the build up of mildew and
mold. Grease left on a stovetop will catch dust and dirt, and unfortunately,
leave spots on anything that it touches. Dry out refrigerators and freezers,
especially those that contain an ice maker and are scheduled to be serviced by a
third party service provider.
Dishwasher Clean and dry thoroughly. Disconnect and drain
hoses. Leave the door open for a few days prior to the move. Wrap dry hoses in
towels and packing paper and place inside the dishwasher. Washing Machine Clean and dry thoroughly. Disconnect and drain
hoses. - Wrap metal connector ends of hoses in a towel
and place inside washer.
- Secure the tub following the manufacturer's
guidelines to prevent swaying. Note: If you don't have the manufacturers
guidelines, you can purchase a washer kit with a manual that provides
instructions on how to secure the tub by tightening down the tub using screws.
If you prefer not to do it yourself, a third party service provider can be
arranged for you by your professional moving estimator.
- Upon arrival to your new home, have
the washer installed by a qualified installer.
Clothes Dryer Before cleaning, unplug or turn off the dryer
from electrical power. - Clean the lint screen.
- Prior to plugging in your electric
dryer at your new residence, have your power supply checked for the correct
electrical requirements. Tip: If you are moving a gas dryer, the appliance
should be disconnected and the gas line capped off by a qualified technician.
The driver and the crew members are not qualified to perform this service. Your
professional estimator can make the arrangements for you.
Stove Top/Range/Oven Clean thoroughly. Detach all removable parts
and pack safely in a box, clearly marked with the contents. - If you
are moving a gas range, it must be disconnected prior to moving day by a
qualified service technician. The gas line must be properly secured also.
- If you have an electric range,
generally no servicing at your present residence is required.
- When arriving at your new residence
with your gas range, you will need a qualified gas installer to check your gas
supply, connect the gas line, seal any openings, light the pilot and handle any
other hook-up requirements.
Refrigerator - Dispose
of all perishables. See our List of Items That Cannot Be Shipped.
- Unplug the power cord and wash all
removable parts and dry thoroughly.
- Allow the parts, including the interior of the
refrigerator and freezer, to dry thoroughly to allow all moisture to evaporate.
- Pack all loose parts including bins
and shelves in a secured, approved container.
- There are products on the market to
help keep your refrigerator clean, dry, and mildew free while in transit. Check
your local hardware or grocery store.
- Vacuum the condenser or compressor.
- Empty and clean the evaporator pan;
allow time for it to dry.
- Before moving, turn off the water and
disconnect the water line if you have a cold water dispenser or automatic ice
maker.
- The water reservoir should also be emptied.
- If your refrigerator or freezer is
an older model, you may have to have the compressor or motor bolted down.
- At your new destination, allow 24
hours before operating the unit. This will allow time for the oil to settle,
preventing possible damage to the compressor.
- Have ice maker and water dispenser
connected to water line by a professional.
- Copper tubing, a shut off valve and fittings
may be required.
- Once your ice maker is in service, dispose of
the first few batches of ice to clear out any impurities from opening the water
line.
Microwave Oven Any glass trays should be removed, wrapped and
securely packed in a carton. - The microwave can either be placed in its
original box, if available and still in good shape, or a well-cushioned carton.
- If your microwave is large, ask
your moving professional if it can be pad-wrapped on moving day.
- Do not place cardboard in the door
opening because it can spring the door during transit.
- Take care not to block the exhaust
vent when installing it at your new home.
Back to top NON-TRANSPORTABLE ITEMS The following items are examples of items that
the moving companies, by federal law or internal policy, cannot transport. Hazardous Materials Items that are flammable, corrosive or
explosive - Aerosols
- Ammonia
- Ammunition
- Car batteries
- Charcoal
- Charcoal lighter fluid
- Chemistry sets
- Cleaning solvents
- Fertilizer
- Fireworks
- Gasoline
- Kerosene
- Lamp oil
- Liquid bleach
- Loaded guns
- Matches
- Motor oil
- Paint thinner
- Nail polish remover
- Paints
- Pesticides
- Poisons
- Pool chemicals
- Propane tanks
- Sterno
- Weed killer
Perishables Food, plants or living things that may die or
spoil in transit - Frozen foods
- Plants
- Produce
- Refrigerated foods
- Open or half used foods
Back to top NOT RECOMMENDED Items of personal importance or sentimental
value - Cash
- Deeds or wills
- Moving documents
- Family photographs
- Furs
- Securities
- Stamp or coin collections
- Valuable jewelry
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