Packing for a Move

When you are preparing for a move -- whether it's two blocks away or across the country -- it's very important to pack your belongings properly so that they arrive at your destination safely. I am a very serious proponent of buying new boxes to move -- used boxes could contain insects like bed bugs, cockroaches and more. It's not worth it to infest your belongings in order to save a few dollars. Also, moving boxes are a better quality than product boxes, so they will provide better protection.

Use small boxes for heavy items, such as books. Use large boxes for lighter items, such as blankets, pillows, linens. Put as much into boxes as possible so that there are fewer loose items. Tall lamps should be wrapped in a blanket or paper to protect it. Couches should be wrapped in a plastic tarps or shrink wrapped. Dishes should be wrapped in bubble wrap and/or lots of paper. Every box should be labelled with the room it will be moved to, and every box should be numbered! This may seem like a lot of work, but it is worth it at destination, when you can check off each and every box to ensure there's no loss.

Anything breakable should be bubble wrapped and packed with like items, and the box should be clearly marked "FRAGILE."

Always move personal items, such as medicine, money, jewelry, important papers, plants, in your own vehicle.