Packing Tips

• When you pack your items, consider the floor plan of your new home, so that you organize your items based on the rooms that they will be placed in upon delivery. This will make the unpacking process more efficient.
• List content and room on the outside of every carton.
• Use ample paper inside the carton on the top and bottom to provide good cushioning.
• Write “OPEN FIRST” on cartons containing essential items such as cooking utensils, toiletries, etc.
• Pack heavier items in the bottom and lighter items in the top of the box. Try to keep per-box weight of 50 lbs or less; it makes moving a lot easier. A general rule to remember on carton size- the heavier the item, the smaller the carton.
  

Packing Materials

Please use only strong corrugated cartons with covers. We can provide you with specialty cartons for everything from mattresses to clothing and mirrors. Plastic bags and labels for easy identification. Foam peanuts, Styrofoam pellets or 'popcorn'.

China

Carefully wrap china in sheets of clean newsprint paper, be careful because old newspaper stains! Place newsprint paper in the bottom of a Dishpak for cushioning. Wrap each piece individually then wrap up to three in a bundle with a double layer of paper. Place these bundled items in the carton in a row on the edge. Surround each bundle with crushed paper, being careful to leave no unfilled spaces. Add two or three inches of crushed paper on top of the bundle to protect rims and make a level base for the next level. Horizontal cardboard dividers can be helpful in keeping layers level. Smaller plates, saucers and shallow bowls can make up a second layer. Wrap and pack in the same way as larger items.

Cups, Glasses, and Stemware

Stuff glasses and stemware with crumpled tissue or packing paper before wrapping. Lay it on the corner of the packing paper and roll it one or two full rotations; pull sides of packing paper up and over glass/stemware and continue rolling to the far corner. Corrugated paper rolls or cellular boxes may be used for added protection. Place glasses and stemware at the top of your 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 placed inside each other, as long as they are separated by paper. Bernard has cartons specially designed for packing lamp bases. These cartons are also good for floor lamps and garbage cans.

Stereos and other electronics

If possible, pack electronics in their original cartons. As long as proper packing materials are used (bubble wrap, newsprint, foam sheeting, comforters/blankets, pillows, etc.), electronics can be safely packed in sturdy boxes. Start by padding the bottom of the carton with a generous amount of packing material. Wrap electronics with paper and place in carton. Tightly pack padding around and on top of the unit to prevent damage. Firmly seal the carton.
Note: When you unpack your electronics, let them reach room temperature before plugging them in.


Statuary and Figurines

Wrap statuary and figurines with bubble wrap, then tightly wrap with clean paper. If bubble wrap is not available, use clean paper to wrap the article until it is adequately cushioned.

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.

Computers

If possible, pack computers in their original boxes. As long as proper packing materials are used (bubble wrap, newsprint, foam sheeting, comforters/blankets, pillows, etc.), computers can be safely packed in sturdy boxes. Start by padding the bottom of the carton with a generous amount of packing material. Wrap computer parts generously with paper and place in carton. Tightly pack padding around and on top of the PC to prevent damage. Firmly seal the carton. Label the carton as “Fragile – Top Load.” Be aware of special considerations for the internal workings of the computer.