PACKING TIPS

Separate your boxes by size, and place appropriate size boxes in each room.

Have all supplies (i.e. tape, bubble wraps, packing paper) lined up next to your boxes when packing.

Pack one room at a time, marking each box with a description of its contents and destination.

Put heavy items in small boxes and light items in large boxes. Keep weight of boxes reasonable. Group items of similar size and weight. Wrap heaviest items first with bubble wrap or packing paper and place on bottom of box. Wrap lighter items with the same and place on top of heavier items, separated by bubble wrap or packing paper. Fill all voids with packing paper or bubble wrap to prevent shifting.

Double box fragile items and fill voids between boxes with packing paper or bubble cushioning to avoid shifting.

Use “FRAGILE” labels on boxes with breakable items. This will alert movers to handle with care.

When making boxes, reinforce the bottom of all boxes with 2″ packing tape. Start by taping the seam where the two flaps meet, leaving 4″ of overlap on each side. Add two more strips in the same direction, on both sides of your first strip, approximately halfway between your strip and the edge of the box.

Fill each box as much as possible using packing paper to fill empty space to prevent shifting and breakage.

Make sure tops and sides of boxes do not bulge or sag. Under-packed boxes may collapse and over-packed boxes may rupture.

For books, lay flat and alternate bindings to prevent damage.

Pack plates on their edges in double-wall corrugated dish boxes. Dish/glass dividers will help keep these items safe and organized.

Bubble wrap your fragile items. Small bubble is recommended for smaller, lighter weight items. Large bubble is recommended for larger, heavier weight items. For added protection, line your box with bubble before packing.

To keep large items clean and sanitary, use mattress bags, furniture bags, and stretch wrap.

Use moving blankets to wrap furniture, appliances, TVs or other large objects. Use only strong, corrugated carton boxes with covers. The added strength may avoid damage that results from the use of poor-quality packing materials.

Collect old newspapers for use in packing, but remember that ink may rub off and stain clothing or other items.

Purchase special boxes for dishes, wardrobe and other special items.

Pack audio/video equipment in their original boxes. Label cables and tighten transit screws. If removing screws, tape them to the objects they are removed from.

Have rugs and draperies cleaned before moving and leave them in wrappings for the move.

Pack medicines in a leak-proof container.

Carry all valuables with you.

Here’s a list of packing supplies that will come in handy:

• Plastic bags and labels for easy identification
• Foam peanuts, styrofoam pellets or “popcorn”
• Tissue or craft paper for delicate packing jobs
• Corrugated paper rolls for figurines and fragile items
• Gummed tape ((1 1/2 to 2″ wide) and/or strong twine for sealing cartons
• Markers and labels for identifying contents of cartons
• Notebook and pencil for carton identification log
• Scissors and/or sharp knife

Packing can feel like the most daunting part of moving and Team Rina knows how chaotic it can quickly become. We decided to compile a list of our best packing tips to help you organize and streamline your packing process.