Fragile Items
For dishes and breakables, it is a good idea to pad the bottom, top and sides of the boxes with wadded up bunches of bubble wrap or newspaper. This helps prevent shifting. The steadier the box, the less the risk of damage.
Each item should be wrapped separately with newspaper or packing paper.
Wrap bundles of flatware together in a group of 3 or 4 but place a few layers of paper between each piece.
Clothes
Clear out all of your dresser drawers and put hanging clothes in a wardrobe box. You can use the bottom of the wardrobe box for shoes.
Pictures
When it comes to your pictures or paintings, make sure you box them. That way you know that they are protected and packed properly.
Electronics
If possible, pack electronics in the original boxes. If you do not have the original box, pack them with plenty of bubble wrap and make sure you use the right size box.
Code wiring with tape for easier installation and set up.
Fasten down the tone arm and dust cover on your stereo.
Back up important files on your computer. “Park” the hard disk (program often included on diagnostics diskette.)
Useful Tips
Tape the top and bottom of every box when the box is full. Run two strips of tape along the side and one strip down the center.
Use small boxes for heavier items and larger boxes for lightweight, bulky items.
Wrap small and/or fragile items individually.
Pad the top, bottom and sides of boxes with paper. This helps prevents shifting and possible damage.
To help avoid boxes being crushed when stacked, pack each box until it is full.
For boxes with fragile items, stuff them with wads of paper. Do not over pack, but pack them tight enough that when you shake the box, the contents do not move.
To make things easier on you, number each box and make a list showing what is in each one. This makes the unpacking process a lot easier.
Create a thorough inventory of all your property.
DO NOT PACK:
Money, valuable papers, jewelry and other securities should be kept with you at all times. You may also prefer to keep these items in a safety deposit box.
Anything flammable such as aerosol cans, paint, gasoline, etc. cannot be packed or hauled. Anything that is perishable such as frozen foods, produce, meats, plants, etc. should be kept with you or thrown away.
On the day of your move:
For your safety, do not enter ramp / back of truck.
Personal presence: Stay present during move and keep your cell phone handy. Find a designated safe place for children and pets to keep them out of danger.
Safety over speed: Please do not rush or pressure movers. This may result in dangerous or unprofessional work environment.
Do a final walk-through: Check that nothing was missed / forgotten before movers depart.