Packing Tips

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Recommended Packing Supplies:
  • Various size cardboard boxes
  • Plastic sheets/tarp
  • Blankets
  • Padding/bubble wrap
  • Newspaper/wrapping paper
  • Box/shipping tape
  • Scissors/pocket knife
  • Small tool kit
  • Sandwich bags (to hold appliance/furniture hardware}
  • A hand truck or "dolly"
  • Gloves
General Packing Tips:
  • Pack as much as you can into boxes. This will provide greater protection for your belongings and will make loading your UNIT® much easier. Unusually shaped items take up more space and make loading more difficult.
  • The key to a successful move is proper packing … and the use of padding. Don't skimp on packing supplies. They are far cheaper than broken or damaged belongings. One of the many advantages of renting a storage UNIT® is that you can take your time packing… days, or even weeks before your move date. Take one room at a time. Begin with things you use less frequently, books knick knacks. Pack each room in separate boxes and label each box with its contents.
  • Reinforce the bottom of all boxes with tape. Fill each box to its capacity, using paper or fillers to eliminate empty spaces. The top and sides of each box shouldn't bulge, nor should they cave in when closed.
  • Pack heavy items, such as books, in smaller boxes. Keep the weight of each box down to a manageable level.
  • Leave lightweight linens and clothing in their drawers. Pack extra linens, pillows and stuffed animals in large garbage bags and tape closed. Plan to use these bags as cushions or fillers in your UNIT®.
  • Disassemble any items you can. Be aware of items with sharp corners or projections and keep them from puncturing or scratching other objects.
  • THE ‘ESSENTIALS BOX” - Pack your valuables and essentials separately and plan on keeping your “ESSENTIALS BOX” with you at all times during your move.
Furniture Tips
  • Wrap with blankets or bubble wrap.
  • Secure padding to furniture. Do not use tape directly on wood or painted surfaces.
  • Remove legs from furniture if possible.
  • Place wing nuts or screws in envelopes or plastic bags and tape to underside of furniture.
  • Place sofa cushions and pillows in bags to use as pads or fillers in your UNIT®.
  • Coat fine wood furnishings with wax to protect against scratches.
  • Move dressers with contents in drawers to avoid repacking. Secure drawers from opening during transit.
Electronics Tips
  • Whenever possible use original shipping boxes for computers, printers and other electronic items. You might even consider double boxing. Follow manufacturer's instructions for moving when available.
  • Immobilize moving parts and remove all detachable cables and wires. Color code or label wiring for easier reinstallation. Tape electrical cords to back of appliance to prevent plug damage and wrap each piece with bubble wrap.
  • CDs and software do not survive high temperatures. If you are shipping your goods during the warmer seasons, consider keeping these items with you.
Major Appliances
  • Clean and dry all appliances at least 24 hours before your move date. Consider using empty space in your appliances to move lightweight or crushable items.
  • Remove broiler pan and racks from your oven. Tape burners or coil elements to the top of your stove and tape down all knobs.
  • Disconnect and drain all washing machine hoses and store them inside the machine. Immobilize the tub with a brace or by placing towels between the tub and sidewall. Tape electrical cords to each appliance and tape all doors and lids closed.
Dishes and Glassware Tips
  • Wrap breakables in tissue paper and use newspaper to fill extra spaces in boxes.
  • Pack plates on their edges.
  • Consider using pot holders and dish towels to cushion the bottom and sides of your boxes.
  • Fine silver should be wrapped in cloth or silver paper.
  • For greater protection, consider purchasing "dish packs."
Lamps and Decor
  • Remove all bulbs and shades from lamps. Pack in sturdy cartons labeled "fragile".
  • Wrap each wall hanging individually with bubble wrap, blankets, or towels.
  • Pack flat items on their edges.
Lawn and Garage Items
  • Drain all gasoline and oil from lawn mowers, weed eaters, chain saws and other equipment.
  • Disconnect all batteries.
  • Empty propane tanks from barbecue grill and properly purge hose. Secure lid and immobilize moving parts.
  • Strap long garden tools together into a bundle. Pack heavy power tools into small sturdy boxes and fill spaces with newspaper.
  • Poisonous, flammable and corrosive items cannot be shipped. Please refer to the bottom of this page for a list of items that fall into this category.

Download the Packing Tips PDF Adobe Reader is required, download a free copy