Packing: Tried and True Tips and Tricks

The biggest undertaking during a move? The preparation. Did you know that packing isn't all or nothing? Corrigan can pack as much or as little as you’d like! During your virtual survey, your relocation specialist will review your needs and provide a price for those services. Packing is completely customized to you, your budget and your wishes. If you’re doing all or most of your own packing, then the question truly is- what's the first step? We’re happy to provide our best packing advice with you, free of charge, and you’ll be on your way to an stress-free move!

Where to start?

Packing can be a hectic time: boxes everywhere. We can help you simplify the process. Here are some packing tips that will help you get started:

• Organize how you will pack. You will want to first pack the items you use the least.
• Do not wait until the last minute. Begin packing as soon as you find out you are moving, especially if you are doing all of the packing yourself.
• Do not pack flammable or restricted items.
• To keep better track of your belongings, write down the contents and location on the outside of the box. Label this on the side, as you won’t see anything on the top of the boxes if they’re stacked.
• Use clean newsprint paper. You do not want the ink from an old newspaper on your belongings. Clean newsprint paper is available from your move coordinator.
• Divide breakables and non-breakables.
• Use professional packing tape instead of masking tape; it is stronger.

How to: Books

Place books horizontally in the carton, alternating the spine/open side of the book. Place a sheet of parchment paper between books so they don't adhere to each other. Get in touch with your move coordinator for book cartons.

How to: Bottles

Seal bottles shut and wrap in unused newsprint. For extra security, put bottles in a resealable, watertight bag before wrapping and placing in a carton. Or, use a piece of cling film, place inside the lid, and tighten the cap back on. You’ve now reclosed the bottle and eliminated the risk of spills.

How to: China

China is highly breakable, which demands additional precautions. These packing tips can minimize the risk of damage while these items are moved:

• First, wrap fine china in sheets of white tissue paper, and place newsprint paper in the bottom of a box for cushioning.
• Wrap each piece of fine china individually.
• For plates, place these items in the carton in a row on their edge (so they are standing up).
• Surround with torn paper, being careful to leave no unfilled spaces.
• Add torn paper] on top of the bundle to protect rims and make a level base for the next tier. Note: a couple of inches of paper will do great.
• Smaller plates, saucers and shallow bowls can make up another tier. Wrap and pack in the same way as above.

How to: Clothing

Leave your clothes on hangers and store them in a special hanging box. You can always request your move coordinator for some wardrobe boxes.

How to: Computers

If possible, pack electronic devices in the boxes they came in when possible. Otherwise, if you use sufficient packing materials (packing peanuts, air pillows, bubble wrap, packing paper, etc), electronic devices can be securely packed in almost any box. Follow these packing tips for effortless care:

• Start by filling the bottom of the carton with a large amount of packing material.
• Wrap computer/electronics parts liberally with paper and put in the carton.
• Tightly pack padding around and on top of the device to prevent damage.
• Firmly seal the container.
• Label the box as “Fragile – Top Load.”

Be careful of special considerations for the internal components of computers. Talk to the transportation of your computers and other electronics with your move coordinator.

How to: Lamp Shades

Shades for your lamps can be a little challenging. Gently handle lamp shades by their frames and put them in a container lined with paper. Also cover the shade with additional paper. You can nest shades inside each other, as long as they are separated by paper.

How to: Mirrors and Glass

Wrap the picture in a cushion of blank paper. Place in a flattened packing or expandable carton. Carefully secure the carton. Always position pictures on their edge. They may break if they are put flat.

How to: Shoes

If the shoes are soiled, a plastic bag can keep other items clean during the move. If convenient, pack each pair of shoes in their own box, and place in a storage carton. If you do not have shoeboxes handy, separately wrap each pair.

How to: Silver

When packing silverware, it's best to wrap each piece in clean paper, and then place them in a box.

How to: Soft Goods/Bedding

It is best to pack soft items like pillows, bedding, and blankets in cartons with protective lining separated by layers of fresh paper. This will keep your sheets organized and spotless during your move.

How to: Statues and Figurines

Anything easily damaged is best packed into a dishpack. Since these are double the strength of standard boxes, they can hold about 70 pounds. Wrap these delicate pieces in soft paper first, then unprinted newsprint. Add a generous amount of bubble wrap on the base, edges, and among breakable items inside of the box.

How to: Stemware

Crystal glasses should be wrapped separately with protective paper or bubble wrap inserted inside the cup and around its stem. Pad each cup with thick wrapping. Then put upside down with the stem upwards in a wine glass box.

When in doubt:

Get in touch with your moving expert! With over nine decades of experience, Corrigan Moving Systems has the expertise and experience to handle even the most delicate and unusual items. Our experts can advise the top packing techniques to handle specific pieces, ensuring your items make it from start to point B without any worries.