Packing: Tried and True Tips and Tricks

The most daunting 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 remote survey, your move representative will go over your needs and provide a cost for those services. Packing is completely tailored 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 provide our expert packing tips with you, and you’ll be on your way to an easy move!

Where to start?

Packing can be a overwhelming time: boxes filling up the space. Our team at Corrigan Moving can help you make it easier for you. Here are some suggestions to help you pack that will help you kick off your move:

• Organize how you will pack. You will want to first pack the items you can live without for a while.
• Do not wait until the last minute. Start packing as soon as you know you're going to move, especially if you are doing all of the packing yourself.
• Do not pack flammable or non-allowable items.
• To better organize your belongings, list the items inside and room on the outside of the box. Mark this on the side, as you won’t see anything on the top of the boxes if they’re stacked.
• Use unused packing paper. You do not want the ink from an old newspaper on your belongings. Clean newsprint paper is available from your move coordinator.
• Separate breakables and items that won't break.
• Use professional packing tape instead of masking tape; it is stronger.

How to: Books

Arrange your book collection horizontally in the box, switching the spine/open side of the book. Insert a sheet of paper between each book so they don't adhere to each other. Reach out to your moving consultant for specialized boxes for books.

How to: Bottles

Seal bottles closed and enclose in clean newsprint. For extra security, place bottles in a resealable, watertight container before packing and storing in a carton. Or, use a piece of plastic cling wrap, place inside the cap, and screw the cap back on. You’ve now resealed the bottle and prevented the risk of spills.

How to: China

China is highly breakable, which demands additional precautions. These packing tips can help you avoid damage while these goods are transported:

• First, wrap china in sheets of white tissue paper, and place newsprint paper in the bottom of a box for cushioning.
• Wrap each piece of delicate dishware individually.
• For plates, place these items in the carton in a vertical orientation on their edge (so they are standing up).
• Surround with crumpled paper, being careful to eliminate any voids.
• Add scrunched-up paper] on top of the bundle to protect rims and make a level base for the next tier. Note: a couple of inches of paper will do great.
• Smaller plates, saucers and shallow bowls can make up another tier. Wrap and pack in the same way as above.

How to: Clothing

Keep your clothes on hangers and store them in a special hanging box. You can always request your move coordinator for some wardrobe boxes.

How to: Computers

Ideally, pack computers/electronics in their original boxes when possible. Otherwise, if you use proper packing materials (bubble wrap, newsprint, blankets, etc), computers/electronics can be securely packed in almost any box. Follow these packing tips for effortless care:

• Start by padding 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 unit to prevent damage.
• Firmly seal the carton.
• Label the box as “Fragile – Top Load.”

Be aware 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

Shades for your lamps can be a little challenging. Handle lamp shades by their frames and place them in a carton that has paper padding. Also wrap the shade with additional paper. You can stack 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 moving or expandable 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 grimy, a plastic bag can keep other items clean during the move. If feasible, pack each pair of shoes in their own shoebox, and place in a storage box. If you do not have shoeboxes handy, individually wrap each pair.

How to: Silver

If you're packing silverware, it's best to wrap each piece in new paper, and then place them in a box.

How to: Soft Goods/Bedding

It's best to pack soft goods like pillows, bedding, and blankets in lined cartons separated by layers of clean paper. This will keep your linens organized and clean during your move.

How to: Statues and Figurines

Anything fragile is best packed into a dishpack. Since these are double the strength of standard boxes, they can hold about 70 pounds. Cover these delicate pieces in packing material first, then packing peanuts. Add a lot of packing peanuts on the bottom, edges, and between breakable items inside of the box.

How to: Stemware

Goblets should be individually wrapped with packing paper or bubble cushion inserted into the cup and around its stem. Protect each goblet with thick wrapping. Then position upside down with the stem upwards in a dishpack.

When in doubt:

Contact your moving expert! With over nine decades of expertise, Corrigan Moving Systems has the knowledge and experience to handle even the most sensitive and unique items. Our experts can advise the best packing techniques to handle specific pieces, ensuring your items make it from beginning to destination without any cause for concern.