Self Packing Tips

Packing boxes

1. Prior to packing boxes, you'll need to wrap most items to guard them from scratching and shatter. There are a selection of supplies to be had, including bubble pack, foam peanuts and tissue paper.
2. Support the bottom of boxes with adhesive packing tape the last thing we want is to pick a box up and the bottom open up and everything crashes to the floor.
3. Fill boxes securely and pack well to prevent the contents from moving during your move.
4. Close up boxes securely with packing tape.
5. Boxes should be no more than 30kg in weight
6. Group records and CDs vertically in boxes do not stack them flat.
7. Place weighty items in the bottom of the box and lighter items at the top.
8. Detach tops and lids from jars and china and wrap them separately.
9. Fasten any opened boxes and bottles before packing them to prevent spills and seepage.
10. Plug in small spaces in each box with smaller paperbacks. rotate bindings every few books to keep piles level in each box tape shut and mark box books.
11. Where appropriate mark boxes that need to be a certain way up we always move boxes in a upright position but there are items that need to be "THIS WAY UP"

Packing clothes

1. Wardrobe boxes are ideal and make life easier unpacking, clothes can be taken straight from wardrobe on hangers and hung straight into wardrobe box with no added ironing to do afterwards although they can be expensive If the boxes still have some space think about filling them with lightweight items like lamp shades covered in bubble wrap.
2. Suitcases can be used for packing clothes.
3. Write on boxes clothing or with the person's name on so they can be placed in their room.

Packing Computers and electronic items

1. Where possible pack electrical items TVs stereos amplifiers, cassette players, CD players, video players, and turntables in their original cardboard box.
2. If you did not keep original packaging they can be packed in boxes with proper packing materials used like bubble wrap, blankets and pillows along with clothing, electronics need to be packed in sturdy boxes.
3. Label the wires, cords, and jacks of your piece of equipment to make reconnecting your system quick and easy.
4. Label the boxes Fragile and with the room of the house and what the box contains. remove cds or disks and back up important files.

Packing Mirrors and Framed Pictures

1. Pack individual pieces or groups into Adjustable Mirror Boxes surrounded by adequate Packing Materials to ensure a safe journey.
2. Label the boxes with Fragile and with the room destination.
3. Wrap the picture or mirror in a ample amount of padding bubble wrap or paper.
4. Place in a flattened packing box carton. Carefully tape and seal the carton.
5. Always stand glass, pictures and mirrors on their edge do not lay flat.
6. If you have no purpose made picture boxes normal removal boxes can be used by cutting them up and wrapping around mirrors or pictures always remember to protect corners and tape star shape.

General packing tips

1. Ensure there is adequate parking for the moving van.
2. Arrange elevator times for both your origin and your destination.
3. If possible, remove glass shelves from cabinets.
4. Secure lids tightly on all liquids.
5. Defrost and clean fridges and freezers prior to moving day.
6. Tape open foodstuff boxes and bag them in plastic grocery bags for extra security.
7. Bundle brooms, mops, skis and garden tools together for easy handling.
8. Arrange to have ice makers, gas appliances, chandeliers and grandfather clocks serviced prior to moving day.
9. Secure loose cords with garbage bag ties and take them with you.
10. Leave folded clothes and linens in dresser drawers.
11. Take jewelry, valuable or fragile items, unwrapped floor lamps, currency, documents, collections, etc. (see above), pets and any open cartons in your own vehicle.
12. Mark all boxes and especially the "need-right-away-items" for when you arrive (toiletries, snacks, etc). Include a "special" box with a new game or book for each of the little ones to keep them occupied and give them something to look forward to). Plan to eat out, or order your meal in - for the first night. Ask your consultant for more tips to make yours a smooth efficient move!

Moving with pets

1. Before the move

First and foremost, don't forget to purchase a name tag on which you should write your pet's name, your phone number and your new address, should your pet escape during the move.

Schedule a visit with your veterinarian to ensure your pet is healthy and that all vaccinations are current. If your new home is very far from your old one, you should ask your veterinarian to recommend another veterinarian close to your new home. If your pet is on medication, don't forget to have an ample supply, should you need it during the move.




2. During the move

First and foremost, don't forget to purchase a name tag. You should have your phone number, your email address and your new address written on it should your pet escape during the move. You should also have a recent picture of your pet to help identify your pet if it becomes lost.

When you are getting ready to move, make sure your pets daily activities are kept as normal as possible. Sometimes pets can get annoyed by lon lasting moves and as a result, they may just run away or even hide. The best way to reduce the moving burden on your pets is to keep them in a stable environment such as a friend's house that they might be comfortable with.




3. After the move

Just like people, it takes time for pets to become accustomed to a new environment. To help them get comfortable and feel at home in your new house, you should keep all their favorite toys, food and bedding. Don't forget to take your pet for a walk in your new neighborhood so they can get used to it.