Packing: Tried and True Tips and Tricks

The most challenging undertaking during a move? The packing. Did you know that packing doesn't have to be an all-or-nothing process? Corrigan can pack as much or as little as you’d like! During your virtual survey, your moving consultant will talk about your needs and provide a cost 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- how do you begin? We’re happy to share our top 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 overwhelming time: boxes scattered about. We can help you simplify the process. 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 rarely use.
• Do not wait until the last minute. Begin packing as soon as you find out you are moving, especially if you are doing all of the packing yourself.
• Never pack combustible or restricted items.
• To keep better track of your belongings, document 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 clean newsprint paper. You do not want the ink from an old newspaper on your belongings. Clean newsprint paper is available from your move coordinator.
• Divide breakables and items that won't break.
• Use professional packing tape instead of masking tape; it is stronger.

How to: Books

Arrange books flat in the box, switching the spine/open side of the book. Place a piece of wrapping paper between each book so the books do not stick together. Reach out to your move coordinator for book cartons.

How to: Bottles

Tape bottles tightly and wrap in fresh paper. For extra security, put bottles in a resealable, watertight ziplock bag before placing and placing in a carton. Or, use a piece of cling film, 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

Porcelain is extremely fragile, which needs extra care. These packing tips can help you avoid damage while these wares are relocated:

• First, wrap china in sheets of clean newsprint paper, and place white tissue paper in the bottom of a box for cushioning.
• Wrap each piece of fine china individually.
• For plates, place these items in the carton in a vertical orientation on their edge (so they are standing up).
• Surround with scrunched-up paper, being careful to leave no unfilled spaces.
• Add scrunched-up paper] on top of the bundle to protect rims and make a level base for the next tier. Note: a few 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

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

How to: Computers

If possible, pack computers/electronics in their original boxes if available. Otherwise, if you use sufficient packing materials (bubble wrap, newsprint, blankets, etc), computers/electronics can be securely packed in virtually any box. Follow these packing tips for simple care:

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

Be aware of special considerations for the internal components of computers. Talk to the transportation of your computers and other electronics with your move coordinator.

How to: Lamp Shades

Shades for your lamps can be a little hard. Be careful with lamp shades by their wire frames and put them in a carton with paper for protection. Also wrap the shade with additional paper. You can place shades inside each other, as long as they are separated by paper.

How to: Mirrors and Glass

Wrap the picture in a cushion of blank paper. Place in a flattened shipping or adjustable carton. Carefully tape the carton. Always stand glass on their edge. They may shatter if they are put flat.

How to: Shoes

If the shoes are grimy, a reusable bag can keep other items clean during the move. If feasible, pack each pair of shoes in their own box, and place in a storage box. If you do not have shoeboxes handy, separately wrap each pair.

How to: Silver

When packing silverware, we recommend to cover each piece in fresh paper, and then nest them in a storage carton.

How to: Soft Goods/Bedding

It is best to pack soft possessions like pillows, bedding, and blankets in boxes with liners separated by layers of clean paper. This will keep your blankets neat and clean during your move.

How to: Statues and Figurines

Anything easily damaged is best packed into a dishpack. Since these are double the strength of standard boxes, they can hold roughly 70 pounds. Wrap these delicate pieces in soft paper first, then bubble wrap. Add a lot of shredded paper on the bottom, edges, and among breakable items inside of the carton.

How to: Stemware

Stemware should be wrapped separately with packing paper or air-filled plastic wrap inserted inside the cup and around its base. Cushion each goblet with thick wrapping. Then position the stem upwards in a specialty moving box.

When in doubt:

Contact your move coordinator! With over 90 years of expertise, Corrigan Moving Systems has the know-how and ability to handle even the most fragile and unusual items. Our specialists can advise the most effective packing techniques to handle specific pieces, ensuring your items make it from beginning to point B without any worries.