Packing Tips for the Do-It-Yourselfer

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Miscellaneous Thoughts

Hat and Shoe Boxes
Small boxes like this should be consolidated and packed together in one large carton. Fill and empty spaces of the box with wadded or shredded paper.

Toys
Most toys do not have to wrapped in packing paper, simply place them into large cartons and seal. Games in boxes with small parts should be taped closed with masking tape to contain all game pieces.

Boots or Shoes
Just like toys, they don't need to be wrapped, just place into boxes and seal.

Medicines
Make sure all caps have a good seal and pack into a separate box. Make sure to label the box so that it can be easily located when needed. Do not pack all medicines if you will need to them before the unpacking can begin.

Artificial Flowers or Hobby Items
Wrap all items generously and pack separately in cartons with lots of wadded or shredded paper.

Plants
Plants should not be moved on the moving truck. See Moving Houseplants for additional information.

Tools
Long handled tools like rakes, brooms or shovels should be tightly bundled together. Hand tools should be kept in tool boxes or individually wrapped and placed into well cushioned carton.

Clothing
Wardrobe cartons are designed to provide your clothing a clean and wrinkle free move. Suitcase or clean and lined cartons may also be used to transport clothing.

Draperies and Curtains
Fold lengthwise and secure to padded hangers placed in wardrobe boxes or carefully fold and pack into clean lined boxes.

Mattresses
Special mattress cartons are available to protect mattress from getting snagged or torn and to keep the mattress clean while being moved.

Do's and Don'ts for a Successful Move

1. Wash your hands frequently to help keep everything from becoming soiled while it is being packed.
2. Set up a work area on a large table. Dedicate this are to only packing.
3. Refrain from smoking while packing to prevent burns on your items and to prevent a fire from starting from fallen hot ash.
4. Make sure all of your cartons are clean and dry and strong enough to handle the weight being packed into them.
5. Pack each carton wisely and with enough packing to prevent the shifting of contents while traveling. Keep the weight of each carton under 50 pounds to facilitate easy handling.
6. Don't pack soaps or fragranced items or medications with foods.
7. Don't pack coins, currency, jewelry valuable or important papers. Carry these items with you.
8. Never pack matches, flammable items, ammunition or explosives, paint or other chemicals.
9. Don't pack heavy items like irons or heavy pots with dishes and make sure that all dishes are padded and securely packed.
10. Don't leave loose trays, food items or pots and pans in stoves or refrigerators.
11. Be sure to properly label all cartons as they are being packed so you will know what items need to be unpacked first and know what each carton contains without opening it.