Everybody moves. Most of your belongings will need to be packed in boxes. A great variety of boxes from small to large is available to suit all of your packing needs. To ensure every item arrives at your new home in good condition, invest a little thought and effort into the packing process and choosing the right packing supplies. Here are some tips to make packing easier and better for you!
Use the right-sized box for what you’ll be packing inside
We suggest you pack heavy items, like books, into small boxes. Use bigger boxes to pack larger, lighter items. For dishes and glassware, use dish pack boxes or china boxes. These boxes have a double wall to protect your glass and other fragile items. Protect dishes and glassware by wrapping each piece in packing paper. Start with a layer of crumpled paper at the bottom, putting the heaviest things in first, lighter things toward the top. Make sure to use plenty of crumpled packing paper in between each piece.
Don’t make the box too heavy
Stand next to the box and try to slide the box sideways using your leg. If you cannot move the box with your leg, it is too heavy. Try using a smaller box or filling that box with fewer items. Using the right sized box for the contents will make that much easier. Need help packing? Our professional movers are happy to help whether you want them to just pack a few boxes or if you want the full white glove service.
No matter what you are packing, make sure your boxes are full to capacity
Once the box is relatively full, we suggest you put a layer of crumpled paper at the top of the box to give it a little more protection against caving. Under-packed boxes can get crushed; overstuffed boxes can burst at the seams.
Know what NOT to pack
There are a few things that are not allowed on a moving truck. Don’t pack anything flammable (paint thinner, fireworks, matches, etc.). They could cause more damage than it would cost to simply replace them. Liquids, perishables, and plants should not be put in a moving truck. One leaky jar or broken bottle can ruin a lot.
Keep important personal items with you during your move
Keep passports and other important documents with you during your move! At Elite Moving & Storage, we specialize in packing, storage and moving. After handling thousands of moves within the Chicagoland area, we have seen clients pack their passports, car or home titles, etc. into a box that is going to storage or moving across the country. They then have to come into our office to search through their boxes for these important papers, which can be an expensive headache.
Write on the top and side of the box in what room it needs to go
This will make it easier for you or a professional mover at your final destination. Take your favorite marker and write the contents, destination room, and any handling instructions you think may help once your boxes are being unloaded into the new home.
Elite Moving & Storage can help you move!
We offer packing services as well as supplies from tape to packing paper and every moving box you could need. We also made these helpful videos showing you how to pack, so check them out!
