Moving tips

Make a list

Make a list. Before you pack even one box, create a simple record keeping system. Create a computer-printed list of numbers with a space to write the contents. You'll place a number on every box you pack and list the contents on your list.

Preparations

1 Plan how you will pack. Pack items first that you don’t use often.

2 Start packing as soon as you find out you’re moving.

3 Never pack flammable items or non-allowable items.

4 Use generous amounts of paper inside the carton on the top and bottom to provide good cushion.

5 List contents and room on the outside of the carton.

6 Clearly mark “Fragile” on the outside of cartons.

7 Use clean newsprint paper. Old newspapers may work, but use them carefully because the ink may rub off onto your items. Clean “newsprint”

8 Write “Open First” on cartons containing essential items such as cooking utensils, toiletries, etc.

9 Separate breakables and non-breakables.

10 Pack all cartons tightly.

Pack according to season. So if you are moving in Spring or Summer you should have all your winter items packed together so you don't have to unpack until next season.

Begin at the top of the house and move downwards. If you have an attic, it's a good idea to sort it out first. You will probably discover several things you didn't realize you owned.

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).

Identify each box where it should go and its contents in bold lettering.

Clean the refrigerator, leave the door slightly ajar for a time to decrease the humidity in the appliance. Place some baking soda inside to prevent mildew and musty smells.

Make sure to keep important documents such as; birth & marriage certificates, medical records, school records, passports, pet records, credit card & banking records, tax returns in a safe place and not in a moving truck.

Pack your boxes with heavy items on the bottom and lighter boxes on top. Try to use more smaller boxes that larger boxes so you can carry them.

Protect your flooring on moving day, tape old sheets or a vinyl runner to the ground to protect surfaces.

Wrap electric items individually before packing and cushion them well. Don't use bubble wrap on these items because often the static electricity can cause problems.

Empty the contents chests and dressers before attempting to move. This will make these items lighter and will not put so much stress on the joints of the furniture

Load your plants in the moving truck last, and unload them first.

How to pack

Appliances

Wrap small appliances in inkless newsprint or your kitchen towels or linens. Tape the bottom of a medium box securely and put down a layer inkless newsprint for padding. You can pack several small appliances to a box.

For large appliances, make sure you check your owner's manual for any special instructions before you start to pack. Make sure the inside and outside of all appliances are clean. You can stuff the inside of some appliances, such as washing machines and dryers, with towels or linens. Tape down any parts that could come loose -- the burners on your stove, the electrical cords, etc. Wrap the appliance with furniture pads and tie securely

Books

Use only small boxes for books -- they get very heavy, very fast. You can use small paperbacks to fill the sides of the box if there is extra space.

Clothing

This is where wardrobe boxes come in handy. You can move clothing on hangers straight from your closet to the wardrobe boxes. Clothing in drawers should be packed in suitcases or boxes.

Electronic equipment

Ideally, you should pack electronic equipment such as stereos, TVs and computers in their original boxes with their original packing material. If this is unavailable, wrap the equipment in plastic bags. Wrap each piece in bubble pack and pack in our heavy duty TV Box .

Lamp Shades and Bases

Handle lampshades by their wire frames only and place in a carton lined with paper. Surround the shade with protective paper. Shades can be nested inside each other, as long as they are separated by paper.

Mirrors and Glass

Wrap the picture or mirror in a generous cushion of clean paper. Place in a flattened packing or telescoping carton. Carefully tape and seal the carton. Always stand glass, pictures and mirrors on their edge. Do not lay flat.

Kitchenware

Wrap breakable items in bubble wrap or inkless newsprint. Put layers of bubble wrap between each plate or bowl. Fill the top bowl with crumpled inkless newsprint. Make sure you put the heavier items on the bottom of the box.

Wrap nonbreakable items in inkless newsprint before packing in a box Use cell packs to separate delicate items. Make sure you pack all the items you'll need for your first few days in you new home in one box, and label it prominently. You can only eat take-out for so long.

Planning Your Moving Day

Your mover may ask you to select several consecutive days during which your goods can be loaded and a second series of dates during which your goods can be delivered to your new home. A spread of days gives you and your mover the flexibility needed to keep your move on schedule.

Moving Day

* Be on hand when the movers arrive

* Discuss the delivery arrangements fully with your mover.

* Have beds stripped and ready to be packed.

* Save your energy - let the moving crew disassemble goods.

* Read the Bill of Lading before you sign it.

* Tell your mover how to reach you at your destination.

* Keep in contact with the mover's agent at your destination while you are in transit.

Delivery

Generally, your belongings will be transported in a van along with those of other families in the same general direction. This helps to keep your costs down. Delivery is made on any of the several consecutive days agreed upon before the move began. Make sure the mover knows how to contact you to schedule actual delivery. If you cannot be reached at destination, the mover may place your shipment in storage to avoid delaying other shipments. This can mean additional charges for storage and handling.

Upon delivery, check your goods for damage. Do not sign the inventory until you have inspected your furniture and the exterior of the cartons.

Contact Ezmovingbox.com