Proper Packing: A Three-Part Series

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Proper Packing, Part I:

Moving can be a rewarding experience so long as you do it smartly. After you’ve selected your moving company and decided on the items you need to move, the packing phase begins and you’re on your way to making a major transition. Packing is just as important as the physical move since the integrity of your items in transit are dependent on their security and packaging. Smart packing can be the difference between a satisfied move and having to replace items.

First things first: you should begin by organizing your possessions into different categories. Some people find this easier to do if they start with a checklist. Simply write down everything you plan to move and then break it up into smaller lists based on their function. (Common categories include “kitchen appliances,” “off season clothing,” and “children’s toys.”) This list should help you decide how to pack your boxes.

After finding your moving company and figuring out what exactly you want to take with you, it’s time to start the packing process. You’ll need the standard materials that include:

• Heavy-duty Boxes – Most of your materials will be organized neatly in boxes of varying sizes. It’s important to make heavier boxes manageable in size and to use the strongest boxes possible to secure your items. When purchasing or finding boxes for your move, look for variety and durability. Nearly every moving company can help you find supplies or provide them to you at limited cost.
  
  
• Packing Tape – It’s hard to pack a box without closing it up. Persons looking to “pack cheap” often overlook packing tape strength. Avoid the $0.59 rolls of easily broken or ruined packing tape. Spend a few dollars more on reliably thick tape. Your items deserve a little extra.
  
  
• Wardrobe Boxes (with hangars or bars) – Not every mover needs wardrobe boxes but if you plan on moving finer clothes or precious items like wedding dresses, it’s encouraged that you use wardrobe boxes to protect them.
  
  
• Newspaper, tissue paper, bubble wrap, filler, etc. – Empty room in some boxes will require you to fill them in. Paper, certain wraps for breakable objects, and other filler in general should be good enough for all your needs.
  
  
• Permanent markers or pens (e.g. Sharpies) – You should label all your boxes so that they reflect what you wrote on your original checklist. Add warning labels like “Fragile” or placement instructions for when they arrive at your new home or office.

Do you need help preparing for your big move? Please contact Ridgewood Moving Services by phone at 1-800-397-1445, or by e-mail: info@ridgewoodmoving.com. Call now to discuss how our experienced staff at Ridgewood Moving Services can address your unique moving needs. We conveniently serve the New York-New Jersey metro area from our offices in Mahwah and Ridgewood, New Jersey (Bergen County). Please visit our website at http://ridgewoodmoving.com.