PACKING FOR YOUR MOVE:
GENERAL PACKING TIPS:
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Stow away items that you hardly use (ex. books, etc.)
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Protect your items with packing materials. Newspapers are extremely effective and readily available - however, the ink can rub off so use with discretion. Clean newsprint paper is available at your local office supply stores (such as Staples and Office Depot)
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Separate your breakable and non-breakable items - mark the boxes with FRAGILE items so that they can be given extra care when they are moved
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Buy an assortment of quality boxes in standard sizes - we offer FREE delivery for all moving supplies
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Pack boxes as tightly as possible. Load heavier items on the bottom to maintain balance. Boxes are preferable at 20-30 lbs for moving purposes, and should never exceed 50lbs - reinforce the btoom of boxes
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Boxes should be labeled clearly on several sides - be consistent with your labeling method. Labels should be legible, even if stacked in a corner.
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Use colored stickers to designate boxes for specific rooms at your new residence
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Start an inventory list (on paper, computer, or phone) to keep track of all your valuables
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Use real packing tape, not masking tape as it is not strong enough
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Boxes that contain items you will need immediately (such as cooking utensils, toiletries, etc.) should be labeled "OPEN FIRST"
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Pack a bag or suitcase with all your personal items that you will need during your move (change of clothes, medicine, phone, charger, etc.) Keep it in an easy-to-find place
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Important: Do not move flammable, combustible, corrosive, or explosive items such as paint, gasoline, and ammunition. Dispose of them properly.
PACKING SPECIFIC ITEMS:
Books: Use a Book Box
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Lay books flat in a box, alternating between the spine and open-end as you stack them. This helps with distributing weight evenly
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Place a clean piece of paper between books to keep them form sticking to each other
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Keep the box weight between 20-30lbs to prevent the boxes from breaking during the moving process
Bottle & Liquid Containers: Use a China Box
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Never pack anything flammable, combustible, corrosive, or explosive
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Seal all bottles with wrapping tape around the lids
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Wrap the bottles in newspaper, place them in boxes with crumpled newspaper on the bottom, and add more paper on the sides and top for padding
China & Dishware: Use a China Box
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Before packing any dishware and china, ensure that the moving box has padding on the bottom (most people use crumpled newsprint paper)
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Carefully wrap each piece of china individually and bundle up to three similar pieces together
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Level 2-3 inches of crumpled newspaper or other cushioning on top of the bottom row - to help support the next row
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The top row should be stacked with smaller articles, such as cups and saucers, to keep the box weigh properly distributed
Suits, Jackets, & Better Clothing: Use a Wardrobe Box
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Use a wardrobe box for all your tailored clothing, winter coats, and bulky items
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If the wardrobe box is placed in a storage, make sure to use moth repellent and seal the box with tape to better protect your items
Foldable Clothing: Use a Linen Box or Other Container
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Foldable items can be packed in laundry baskets/bags, suitcases, or a linen box
Computes & Electronics: Use a China Box
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Take photos of your wired connections and label all cables for easier assembly at your new residence (consider using colored ties)
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Disconnect all wires and cables - bundle items together with their components for easier reassembly
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Use original containers & boxes whenever possible
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Use proper packing materials, such as foam sheeting and bubble wrap to protect all your electronic devices
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Place items in prepared boxes, padded heavily on the sides, with item standing on its edge, to prevent damage