Proper Packing: A Three-Part Series

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Part III

Proper Packing, Part III:

Ridgewood Moving Services presents Part III of our “Proper Packing” series. Part I focused on early organizational steps and the materials you’ll need to pack. Part II highlighted tips for “packing smart.” Please enjoy Part III, which is dedicated to packing troublesome and tricky items.

Troublesome hardware (screws, bolts, metal plates, moving parts):
  • Always bind the frame of your bed together after disassembly. Take the “bundle of sticks” approach and tie them together to make transportation easier. Larger portions of the frame will have to be moved as they are, but legs and other pieces can be combined.

  • Keep hardware in Ziploc bags. Label each specifically with the name of the item they belong to. Either pack them with that item or keep them separate so you have all your hardware in one place.

  • Use a shroud, towel, or blanket for your tabletops if you’re transporting furniture. Remove legs if possible.

  • Secure drawers, shelves or other moving parts in appliances or entertainment units. These can slip at any time (if not removed or taped) and cause a shift in weight distribution. An appliance or piece of furniture can quickly become top or side heavy, making it likelier to tip and be damaged.

  • Remove, disassemble, or cover any exposed wiring or moving pieces like motors and machinery.

Tricky Things:

  • Framed art, pictures, and mirrors should be wrapped in cloth and individually boxed according to their shape. Long and tall boxes are available for movers.

  • Carpets and rugs should be rolled tightly and secured with string or rope. Multiple smaller rugs (throw rugs, shower mats) can be combined and rolled into one.

  • Don’t forget that some of your packaged items contain oil or lubricants. If not wrapped carefully or packaged in plastic these can stain or ruin other items they’re boxed with.

  • Drain fluids from anything mechanical you plan to pack. These fluids are often flammable and potentially dangerous.

  • Be mindful when wrapping tools. Sharp edges are a hazard for both the customer and the moving service. To prevent injury, wrap these in cloth. Paper will not work because sharp edges can easily puncture thin wrapping. Thick towels are best.

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.