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 in-home survey, your move representative will go over 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 share our expert packing tips with our customers, and you’ll be on your way to an easy move!

Where to start?

Getting your things ready can be a chaotic time: boxes everywhere. Corrigan Moving can help you keep things simple. Here are some packing tips that will help you get started:

• Prepare how you will pack. You will want to first pack the items you use the least.
• Don't procrastinate until the last minute. Start packing as soon as you find out you are moving, especially if you are doing all of the packing yourself.
• Never pack flammable or non-allowable items.
• To keep better track of your belongings, list the contents and room 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 fresh packing paper. You do not want the ink from an old newspaper on your belongings. Clean newsprint paper is available from your moving company.
• Separate breakables and non-breakables.
• Use reliable packing tape instead of masking tape; it is stronger.

How to: Books

Place your book collection horizontally in the carton, changing the spine/open side of the book. Place a sheet of parchment paper between each book so the books do not stick together. Get in touch with your relocation specialist for specialized boxes for books.

How to: Bottles

Tape bottles closed and enclose in unused newsprint. For extra security, place bottles in a resealable, watertight ziplock bag before placing and storing in a carton. Or, use a piece of cling film, insert inside the lid, and screw the cap back on. You’ve now resealed the bottle and eliminated the risk of spills.

How to: China

Delicate dishware is very delicate, which needs additional precautions. These packing strategies can protect against damage while these items are moved:

• First, wrap fine china in sheets of clean newsprint paper, and place white tissue paper in the bottom of a packing box for cushioning.
• Wrap each piece of china separately.
• For plates, place these items in the carton in a vertical orientation on their edge (so they are standing up).
• Surround with crushed paper, being careful to fill any gaps.
• Add scrunched-up paper] on top of the bundle to protect rims and make a level base for the next tier. Note: a small amount of paper will do great.
• Smaller plates, saucers and shallow bowls can make up an additional row. Wrap and pack in the same way as above.

How to: Clothing

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

How to: Computers

Ideally, pack electronic devices in their original boxes if available. Otherwise, if you use adequate packing materials (bubble wrap, newsprint, blankets, etc), electronic devices can be effectively packed in just about any box. Follow these packing tips for effortless care:

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

Be conscious of special considerations for the internal components of computers. Discuss the transportation of your computers and other electronics with your move coordinator.

How to: Lamp Shades

Lamp shades can be a little challenging. Handle lamp shades by their frames and put them in a container lined with paper. Also cover the shade with protective paper. You can place shades inside each other, as long as they are separated by paper.

How to: Mirrors and Glass

Cover the picture in a cushion of blank paper. Place in a compressed packing or adjustable carton. Carefully tape the carton. Always place glass on their side. They may shatter if they are rested flat.

How to: Shoes

If the shoes are dirty, a ziplock bag can keep other items clean during the move. If achievable, pack each pair of shoes in separate shoebox, and place in a storage box. If you do not have shoeboxes handy, individually wrap each pair.

How to: Silver

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

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 crisp paper. This will keep your linens neat and free from dust and dirt during your move.

How to: Statues and Figurines

Anything fragile is best packed into a specialized box. Since these are twice as strong as standard boxes, they can hold approximately 70 pounds. Wrap these delicate pieces in soft paper first, then packing peanuts. Add a good quantity of packing peanuts on the base, edges, and between breakable items inside of the box.

How to: Stemware

Stemware should be wrapped separately with packing paper or bubble wrap placed into the glass and around its base. Pad each goblet with a generous layer of cushioning material. Then position stem up 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 fragile and unique items. Our specialists can advise the best packing techniques to handle specific pieces, ensuring your items make it from point A to destination without any cause for concern.