General Packing Tips

Spending a few extra moments while packing can save hours of frustration in the future.

• Clothing, blankets and draperies should be cleaned and stored on hangers in a wardrobe box.
• Moths love woollen goods. Dry clean your sweaters and carpets to make sure that there are no moth larvae hidden in the fibres.
• Books, CDs, records and tapes should be packed flat and placed in small manageable boxes.
• Because of their fragile nature, wall mirrors and pictures should have boxes of their own.
• Small pictures, mirrors, or other fragile items should be wrapped in paper or bubble wrap and placed in boxes with other small items.
• When storing mattresses and box springs, be sure to cover them with plastic.
• Make the most efficient use of your space by disassembling furniture (e.g. remove table legs) and wrapping it for protection against scratches and dents.
• Never over-pack boxes. The added weight could injure your back, and a burst box is no fun to pick up in the rain.
• Under-filled boxes tend to collapse under the weight of full ones.
• Heavy items should be packed in small boxes. They're easier to lift, and will be less likely to break.
• Wrap glass items individually, nest cups and bowls, and stack plates/saucers/platters on edge instead of laying them flat.
• Clean and dry appliances before storage. Keep refrigerator or freezer doors slightly open.
• Motorcycles, cars, lawnmowers, and other machinery should be drained of all fluids prior to storing.