Should you pack yourself?

If you choose to pack your own belongings, it is important to account for the time and effort that it will take for you to do it properly in such a manner that your belongings remain safe. It is generally more affordable for you to pack yourself; it is definitely not the safest method though. With that being said it is important for you to consider hiring a mover for your most valuable and fragile items. You can always choose how much of your belongings you want to be packed by a mover, just remember it doesn’t have to be all or nothing.

Packing Guidelines

If you do end up packing at least some of your own belonging’s it is important to know exactly how to protect your things. Also, it is important to note that packing must be finished by the night before your move is scheduled and the moving truck arrives. Make sure that you leave out the items that you will need for the last night, and when you first get to your new residence

What should I pack?

Generally, large items such as furniture and major appliances will be padded and shrink wrapped by your moving company. Other major items like pool tables, large glass tables, and chandeliers are all items that you would like to leave for the movers to pack. They are professionally trained and know how to properly protect them. All throughout this packing handbook, you will be able to find various tips and tricks to help you successfully and safely pack every room in your home.

What type of boxes do I need?

The fact that you are asking this question really shows that you are headed in the right direction. Choosing the correct boxes for your move is an important factor in making sure that your items get to your new house safely. You will find that there are various moving boxes and cartons available that help dramatically improves the chances for your valuables to arrive just the way they left.

Dish Pack (or China Barrel)

This corrugated carton is made especially sturdy with double-wall construction to provide extra protection to your breakables such as china and other fragile dishes like crystal and glassware. You can even add cellular dividers inside your Dish Pack as a means of more protection.

Small (Book Carton) – 1.5 cu. ft. carton

These small boxes are made strong and sturdy, designed for heavier items, they also effectively limit the weight of each box due to their small size.

Medium – 3 cu. ft. carton

This size box can be used for pots and pans, as well as your children’s toys, as well as various towels.

Large (Square/ Lamp) – 4.5 cu. ft. carton

You can fit a little bulkier items in this large box, such as linens, lampshades, larger toys

Large (Rectangular/ Lamp) – 6.0 cu. ft. carton

This box is great to protect larger items that are really bulky such as pillows, blankets, or a bunch of stuffed animals.

Wardrobe Carton

This large carton is specially designed for your clothes, it is equipped with a hanger bar for you to hang a good amount of clothes on. Several of these boxes can really make your move easier.

Mirror Carton

There is a special carton called a telescoping carton that can fit just about any glass picture, or mirror.

Mattress Carton

This help protect your mattress and your box spring, you need an individual mattress carton for every box spring and every mattress that you want to protect.

Additional supplies:

packing paper (make sure that it is unprinted)

You can use paper towels or bubble wrap to help provide extra padding to delicate items.

PVC tape

tape dispenser

markers for labeling

something sharp to help you cut cartons

labels to help identify boxes

Where do I start?

When packing your boxes there will be many items that need to be protected before they are packed, different things to help you with this include bubble wrap, peanuts, and wrapping paper.

Remember as you start to pack your delicates to set up a stack of paper somewhere conducive to packing. You can protect glasses and other round delicates by rolling them up in 2-4 sheets of protective paper, remember to roll from the corner of the sheet folding the sides in as you progress.

For bulkier dishware, you are going to want to lay the dishes centered on a large sheet of the protective paper and draw up the corners of the paper over the dishware. Sometimes it may be necessary to flip over the delicate item and repeat this method, possibly several times. Just remember if you don’t feel comfortable with the level of protection you should probably use more paper. It may even help if you use tape to help increase the protection.

Remember to pad the bottom of each box with wadded paper to ensure that you place the heaviest items in the box first to ensure that the lightest items end up on top of the box. Otherwise, for obvious reasons, your belongings may be damaged.

Ensure that plates as well as books and other things of this nature are loaded in the proper box vertically so that you are using the inborn strength of these items to help protect them in transit. Don’t try to pack everything in one box either, this will cause them to be weighed down and possibly cause the items inside to be damaged. You want to make sure that all the voids are filled though, to avoid shifting and damage in transit, so use wadded paper to completely fill up the box if other lightweight items are not available.

Tips for packing

It is usually good to start without season items and things that you do not use frequently, things that are used more regularly should be left for moving day.

Generally masking tape or other narrow tapes like this are a bad idea PVC tape (poly-vinyl chloride) is usually the best tape for moving.

Do not ever allow the ink on newspaper to touch items such as your fine china because the ink can be absorbed into them, the newspaper is best utilized as a cushion.

Make sure you label every box that you use using a big marker, ensuring that you include the room and content, and include whether or not the items are fragile, also include which end of the box should face up.

Do not pack more than 50 pounds in each of your boxes.

Make sure that you empty dresser drawers of anything that is at risk of breaking during transport.

Make sure you keep all of the parts of disassembled items together, such as all the screws and bolts that belong to your bed, these items can be placed in a small bag and taped to the bed.

It is helpful to wind up all electrical cords and fastening them with Velcro, or trash ties so they do not dangle.

Make sure that you protect breakables by wrapping them individually using packing paper that does not have any print on it, you may find it helpful to use paper towels or tissues as well, you can use newspaper for added protection as long as the ink is not touching the breakable because this could cause the item to be stained.

It is helpful to layer the bottom of boxes that have breakables with newspapers for extra protection.

Make sure that you pack boxes, putting the heaviest items on the bottom, and working your way up ensuring that the lightest items are on the top.

Make sure that empty pockets are filled in with tissue or packing paper to maximize the protection of your belongings, you may find it helpful to use a corrugated box with dividers for extra protection.

Make sure that all of your boxes are tightly closed with tape to ensure safety during transport.

Make sure you put which room each box is going to at the destination point, you may want to label each room at the new residence to ensure that each box gets delivered to the appropriate location.

How should I pack each room?

GARAGE/STORAGE

Many items in your garage or shed are going to be heavy, sharp, or odd shaped, requiring special care to ensure safe packing. Also, there are many items in your garage that cannot be packed into a moving truck such as pesticides, fertilizers, oil and gasoline. Make sure you check out the list of items that cannot be ship (Hyperlink here)

Start our by putting items that are close in size and shape together suck as rakes with shovels. Finally, ensure that you have the appropriate cartons and padding to pack these items safely.

Long-handled tools, should be bundled together. Attachments should be removed from power tools and then packed separately. Make sure that your power tools are completely drained of all oil and gas before your move.

Make sure you use small boxes for heavier tools.

You can use some old towels to fully wrap and tape all sharp-edged tools.

Shovels, rakes, brooms and the like need not be packed; gather them together for your driver to bundle in a pad.

How to pack Lawn & Patio Furniture

Take off all seat covers and padding and pack them in large cartons.

How to pack a Table Umbrella

Wrap the umbrella in paper padding and tape it to ensure safe transport, do not pack the weighted stand.

How to pack a Grill

Make sure that your grill is clean and remove the propane tank because it cannot be moved in the moving truck. (Items that cannot be shipped hyperlink

How to pack Outdoor Equipment

Make sure that you disassemble all swing sets, TV antennas and garden sheds that you plan on taking with you.

Drain all gasoline from your lawn mower prior to your move day.

How to pack Pots and Planters

Many times these items are very fragile and need to be packed appropriately like any fragile item it should be padded sufficiently if any of your planters are unusually large or oblong your moving company should be notified before your move day.

How to pack Trash Cans

Clean cans if you plan to take them with you.

If your trash cans can be sealed or rolled they may be valuable for packing some items, just make sure that you do not weigh them down excessively.

Things to tell your moving company about!

gas leaf blower

snow blower

satellite dish

storage shed

above-ground swimming pool

moped

riding mower

dog house or kennel

motor scooter

trampoline

swing set

hot tub

jungle gym

How to pack your Home Office

Make sure that you set aside all of your important paperwork and legal papers. Also, all computer equipment and other high priced items that exceed $100/lbs should be listed on the “High Value Inventory” form to receive the correct valuation coverage.

How to pack a Home Computer

Back up all files on to take with you. Ensure that all of the cords are labeled and pack them in the appropriate box with the congruent electronic equipment.

How to pack a Copier

If you own a copy machine that is larger than the average desk size than it needs to be serviced by a professional before transport.

Remove all ink cartridges and paper.

Tape closed 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.

How to pack Printers

Remove the toner and laser cartridges if you own a laser printer. Dispose of them safely and get new ones at your destination. On all other printers, the print head should be removed by a professional, depending on the model.

How to pack Books

Pack books together, in small book cartons and limit the weight of each box.

Pack all books flat or face the spine of each book towards the bottom as you do not want the glue to separate in the binding from facing it upward.

All book volumes that are of sentimental value should be individually wrapped before packing.

Any high value book should be individually wrapped, and listed on the “High Value Inventory” form.

How to pack your bedroom and bathroom

It is usually wise to start by packing guest rooms that are used less. Your children can be helpful by setting aside their favorite toys and books and packing the remainder in boxes. Letting children label there own boxes may help them locate their belongings faster.

How to pack your Clothing

Wardrobe cartons can be utilized for clothes that are hanging in the closet, you may need several of these cartons and can usually be purchased from your moving company, or you can purchase them from your local U-Haul or storage facility these cartons can usually hold about 2ft of compressed clothing, but may cause wrinkles to form if packed to tightly.

If you do not prefer to use wardrobe boxes you should remove the clothes from the hangers and place them in a suitcase or a separate box lined with paper.

We recommend that you take your furs in your own vehicle rather then having them moved in the moving truck because irreparable damage can occur due to heat or humidity.

How to pack 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.

How to pack Hats

Hats can be left in the hat box, and then placed in another box the size of the box should be based on how many hats you own, hats cannot be packed with anything other than hats, and then the box should subsequently be named “FRAGILE”

How to pack Jewelry

Your jewelry and other like items should not be packed with the rest of your household goods these items are best left in your possession and transported using your own personal vehicle, if you do not feel safe moving your own high value jewelry items you can always hire a third part armored vehicle service.

How to pack Toiletries

Properly dispose of aerosol spray cans as they cannot be transported in the moving truck. Also you should tape shut any other bottles to prevent them from leaking during transport. (Items that cannot be shipped sheet)

How to pack Bedding, Linens & Towels

All bedding such as blankets and sheets as well as things like table clothes, towels, pillow cases and other linens can be protected using a large plastic bag, and then placing them in a large box, lined with packing paper.

These things can also be used for cushioning or padding many other items.

How to pack Mattresses & Pillows

Mattresses can be put in a mattress carton for added support this also helps to keep your mattress clean during transport. Pillows can be used to help pad other items or fill dead space in some of your larger boxes, you can all place them in various drawers.

How to pack a Bed Frame

It definitely helps everyone on move day if your bed frame is already dismantled of course your mover can easily do this for you but it takes more time to complete the move.

How to pack Mirrors

Mirrors that are constructed from glass should be placed in special boxes that are made specially to protect them. Also, if the mirror is especially heavy, it may help if a crate is used during transport.

How to pack 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.

How to pack 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.

Packing your Living 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.

How to pack 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.

How to pack 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.

How to pack a 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.

How to pack a 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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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

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NOT RECOMMENDED

Items of personal importance or sentimental value