How to pack for Your Move
Proper packing
If you decide to do some of the packing yourself, you'll need to have everything properly packed and ready for loading when the van arrives. In other words, all packing must be completed the evening before move day. Only the things you'll need that last night, the next morning and immediately at your destination should be left for last-minute packing. As for how you pack—that will be expected to meet specific standards. SefeWay Logistics representative will inspect your boxes and if he thinks items are improperly packed or cartons are susceptible to damage, he may refuse to load the items until they are repacked.
How you pack your things can determine whether you ever see them in one piece again. You can make packing your things a lot easier with these simple techniques:
Use the proper packing materials. It will pay off in the long run! Sturdy boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and packing peanuts can all be purchased at local moving or shipping companies. Wardrobe boxes and other specialty boxes can be found there too. Sturdy boxes can also be retrieved from wholesale companies, at no charge, after a shipment. Other great types of reasonably priced padding for your boxes include wadded-up newspaper, old pillows and blankets.
The following is a list of tools and materials to make your packing go more smoothly:
-Razor knife and/or scissors
-Note pad
-Dark, water-resistant marker
-Boxes of all sizes
-Packing tape
-Bubble wrap
-Packing peanuts
Pack one room at a time, labeling each box appropriately (on top and side) with a description of its contents and which room the box belongs in. Also label boxes containing breakable or sentimental items with "Fragile." Keep a detailed list of what items are packed in each box to make unpacking easier.
Empty all drawers of breakable or spillable items. To safeguard against unnecessary damage, it's a good idea to put all furniture knobs, feet, screws, etc. in one container that you can keep with you so the parts won't get lost.
Do not pack flammable goods or heat-sensitive items like candles, records, audio and video tapes, computer disks, propane tanks, aerosol cans, oil-based paints, and certain cleaning fluids.
Wrap items individually and always place a layer of crushed paper in the bottom of the carton for cushioning. Fill empty spaces with additional crushed paper.
Make sure cartons are firmly packed, with heavier items on bottom and lighter ones on top.
Pack according to the season if you'll be putting some boxes in storage. Mark the boxes accordingly
Put heavy items in small boxes so that they're easier to carry.
Make sure the items you'll need first are loaded in last when packing the truck. You'll make access easier for the things you need (ie. Kids toys, kitchen items, telephone and radio).
Use common sense when loading your truck by keeping in mind the size, sturdiness, and weight of your boxes.
Plan ahead for what you'll need the first day after your move. Packing a separate bag with your toiletries, a change of clothes, etc. will prevent unnecessary scrambling or a run to the local store.
Move on a weekday, if possible. Banks, utilities and government offices will be open if you need them.
Keep these items handy on moving day
Here's a list of the items you'll be using on moving day—at your old place and your new place. Reserve a carton for these last-minute items, plus other things you'll need immediately upon arrival at your new home.
-Toiletries (soap, shampoo, razors, etc.)
-First-aid kit
-Aspirin or pain reliever
-Medications and eyeglasses
-Box cutter or knife
-Tape and dispenser
-Work gloves
-Scissors
-Extension cords, batteries
-Basic cleaning supplies and paper towels
-Coffee maker or instant coffee/tea
-Powdered milk/creamer and sugar
-Snacks
-Disposable plates, cups and eating utensils
-Pet supplies
-Plastic trash bags
-Light bulbs
-Flashlight
-Bedding and linens
-Alarm clock
-Local phone book
-Screwdriver and hammer
-Map of the new area
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