Here we are in the midst of high-season for moving, and we thought what better time to share some of our top tips when it comes to packing. As Professional Organizers and Relocation Specialists, we know that proper wrapping, padding, and boxing procedures are vital to protect belongings throughout the move. Most moving companies and specialized downsizing companies such as Organizing Lives offer a full range of packing and unpacking services. Trained professional packers are able to assist with as much or as little of the packing and unpacking as necessary to accommodate your needs. However, many people pack their own belongings to save money. And sadly, that’s where we have seen it all fall apart. You’ve heard the old adage that your move is only as good as your moving company? Well we couldn’t agree more, but we’ll also tell you that, like everything else you’ll hear from us, it’s also all in the planning and organization. Here are some tips to help you pack safely and efficiently. These guidelines will go a long way to ensure a safe and satisfying moving experience.

NOT the way to pack!

• Avoid ‘used’ boxes. You never know what may be hiding in them, and more often than not they are not strong enough to hold your possessions securely. Boxes should have lids and be of uniform size. Moving companies can provide you with sturdy packing boxes, or look in the yellow pages or do an Internet search for ‘packing supplies’. We love the invaluable expertise of the team at Your Moving Depot in Oshawa.
• The heavier the item, the smaller the box. Look for 1.5 to 2 cu size boxes; they are best for books, movies and other heavy items, which can get heavy very quickly.

• Always tape boxes shut for safety and security using packing tape. Duct tape does not adhere securely to corrugated cardboard and other types of tape may not provide adequate strength.
• Wardrobe boxes make closets easier to pack. Most movers will provide them. Clothing in dresser drawers can be left in place.
• Never use printed newsprint to wrap fine china and lampshades. The black print can cause permanent staining. Moving supply stores sell clean newsprint, so our advice is to avoid printed newsprint completely.
• Always pack and unpack breakables on top of a padded surface to minimize the chance of breakage.
• Always stack dishes, books, video tapes, bathroom scales, pictures, and mirrors on their side when packing.
• Self-assembly furniture (think IKEA) should be taken apart because, in most cases, these pieces cannot survive stress on joints or hinges.
• Large bulky items, such as boots, can be placed in the bottom of wardrobe boxes.
• Tape picture and mirror hardware to the backs of frames.
• Place cabinet screws and hinges in envelopes and tape them inside cabinets.
• Use plastic Ziploc bags for keeping small items together within the box.
• Pack non-combustible liquids in leak proof containers or plastic bags.
• By law, moving companies can not transport hazardous materials such as gasoline, paint, insecticides, liquid bleach, and aerosol cans. Other arrangements must be made for moving these materials.
• Protect fragile items by wrapping them individually and placing them in clearly labeled boxes with the heaviest, least fragile items on the bottom.
• Personally transport all important legal documents, valuables, and family medical records.
• Be consistent with your packing. Avoid mixing items from different rooms in the same box. List the contents on the top and sides of all boxes, or ideally, on a detailed inventory list, by room. Not only can you locate an item easily if necessary, you also have a complete box count. If you’d like more information on our SmartPak system of packing, email us and we’ll send you the details.
• Tackle and complete one room at a time, beginning in a room that is not in use everyday.

Pack a box of essential things that you need immediately at your new home. Make sure it is the last box loaded on the truck so that it is immediately accessible at your new home. We call it the LIFO box (Last In, First Out). All of your belongings may not be unpacked the first day or there may be unforeseen delays, so the LIFO box is like a survival kit containing such things as toilet paper, pens and paper, a telephone, scissors, kitchen staples like paper plates and utensils, tea bags, instant coffee and mugs, toiletries such as a toothbrush and toothpaste, tools and a flashlight. LIFO boxes are best packed in a plastic storage container so that it is easily recognizable beyond its’ labeling.

Not moving? Please consider forwarding on this email to someone who is!