Whether you are packing yourself or hiring a mover to help, here are some tips to get you through:
Food
Take only food items you are sure will travel well. Do not take anything perishable. In the winter months, do not take anything subject to freezing. Also, consider that:
- Open boxes of dried or powdered foods such as rice, macaroni and cereals should be sealed with tape.
- Small containers of herbs and spices, condiments, bouillon cubes, gelatin, flavorings, etc. should be placed together in a small box before packing in a large carton.
- shaker-type containers should be sealed tape.
- Canned goods should be packed carefully, as they are heavy.
China, Glassware, Silverware And Similar Items
Glassware is often the most difficult item to keep protected during a move. It is highly recommended that you search for special packing materials for these items – generally called a dish pack -- made from very sturdy corrugated carton that has compartments for common sized glassware. This can usually be found at any local moving or storage company that sells moving supplies but be sure to call them first as this is a somewhat select item.
Before putting an item even in this type of box, wrap all pieces individually in clean paper or special wrapping paper. A generous amount of paper padding and cushioning is required for all china and glassware. Also consider placing cushioning material at the bottom or the top of the carton. Plates, platters and other flat pieces of course are best if used as the lowest area. And, be sure to label these cartons as ‘fragile’.
Cups
As with china above, it is recommended that you use a dish pack for all glass cups. Wrap all glass cups individually with wrapping paper and take special care with how you protect any glass handles. It is always best to place these cups upside down when then packing them. If you decide not to use a dish pack then be sure to wrap each cup individually with more paper than if you had a dish pack. Pack upside down and try to make sure all handles are facing in the same direction.
Lamp Bases and Shades
After removing the light bulb and lamp harp, wrap the base, harp and bulb separately in newsprint. (Use paper pads for large lamps.) Place them together in a carton, filling spaces with crushed paper. More than one well-cushioned lamp may be packed in a carton. Never wrap lamp shades in newspaper. Carefully wrap each shade in three or four sheets of tissue paper, a pillowcase or a large lightweight towel. To allow for movement, use a sturdy carton at least two inches larger 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. Do not pack other items with shades. Label cartons "LAMP SHADES — FRAGILE." It is best to have the moving company crate large Tiffany-type or other glass lamp shades or chandeliers.
Glass Tables Or Large Mirrors
All are easily damaged. Glass might shatter, and marble slabs can crack at veins. Paper never should be permitted to touch the surface of an oil painting. It's best to consult with your moving company about custom-made cartons and crates for items of this kind.
Books
Pack books either flat or with the spine touching the bottom of the carton. Do not pack with spine facing up, as glue can break away from the binder. Pack books of the same general size together. Expensively bound volumes or those of special sentimental value should be individually wrapped before packing. Because books are heavy, be sure to use small cartons.
Tapes, CDs, Records, Etc.
Remove these items from the stereo or storage cabinet. Keep in mind records are heavy and should be packed in small cartons. If records are not in jackets, wrap individually in tissue paper or plastic wrap to protect them from being scratched. Stand compact discs and records on edge, never flat, on a layer of crushed paper and support then at both ends with a large, hardcover book 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 the protective plastic box in which they came, if possible, and then wrapped individually in crumpled paper. Place individual tapes either vertically or horizontally on a couple of layers of crushed paper.
Outdoor Equipment
Before moving day, dismantle children's swing sets, TV antennas and garden sheds, making sure to label any parts that will need to be reassembled. Gather pieces and bundle together with nylon cord. Place small hardware in a cloth bag and securely attach to corresponding equipment. Prepare lawn mower by draining gasoline prior to the day of loading.
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. 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 because tools usually are heavy.
Especially Delicate Items
Delicate items can be tricky to pack and this can cause much anxiety. First wrap them in special wrapping paper or tissue paper and then wrap with a double layer of newspaper or other heavy paper. Be sure that the items are well protected and it is always best to put cushioning between the items as well. Such cushioning can be bubble pack or eggs. If an item is extremely valuable as well as delicate, it might be wise to have it packed for you or to move it yourself. Special materials might be needed for maximum protection.