Packing Properly for Your Move

Proper packing by a trained packer using specially designed cartons and materials is crucial to a good move. Schedule a packing day for the mover a day or two before actual moving day.

Be present when your goods are packed or arrange for someone to be on the premises. Before packing, an inventory list of your household goods being shipped. Make sure all copies of the inventory are legible and that all items are numbered, listed and described correctly. Have valuable items listed separately on the inventory. Discuss the inventory sheet with your mover and make sure you agree with the list of your possessions before signing it.

The inventory record is one of your most important shipping documents. You will refer to it at your destination and be asked to sign it again after you have received and inspected your goods. Appliances that you will be moving such as washing machines, television antennas, air conditioning units and other items requiring special servicing and installation, should be disconnected by an appliance dealer before moving day.

We can make special arrangements to disconnect or install some appliances for you. We can perform special servicing of televisions, stereo equipment, washers, refrigerators, freezers and other items.

If you plan to ship your refrigerators or freezer, remove all food first. Next, defrost and bring the unit to temperature with all doors open. Then thoroughly dry them to prevent mildew or other damage.

Before you move you may want to have your furniture, draperies and carpets repaired and cleaned. Keep these items in the cleaners wrapping during the move.

To save on packaging charges, you may want to pack part of your belongings yourself. This can save money but it requires expertise and the proper packing materials. Keep in mind that we cannot accept liability for broken items that you have packed yourself. However, we can advise you on the purchase of packing materials and on the best procedures to follow should you decide to pack some of your own goods.