Label boxes on all sides for easy identification. Mark boxes containing essential items as “OPEN FIRST.”

Highlight boxes that contain fragile items. Make sure fragile boxes are placed on top of heavier, less delicate boxes.

Pack heavier items in smaller boxes. Be sure not to over pack boxes, to avoid the box breaking or injury when lifting.

Place essentials and frequently accessed items towards the front of your unit. Leave a walkway to the rear of your unit, where less frequently needed items should be placed.

It is easier to pack on a tabletop.

Boxes that are tightly sealed with packing tape will prevent dust from entering.

Lay books flat in smaller boxes, as this will reduce stress on the binding.

Don't forget to use valuable space inside drawers and larger appliances, such as stoves and refrigerators, to store small items: towels, linens, toys, etc.

Strengthen the glass of mirrors and/or glass framed pictures by placing “X”s across them with masking tape, then wrap them in bubble wrap and pack in a flattened box.

Mirrors, windows, and screens should be stored on edge (i.e. vertically); they should not be laid flat.

Clearly label all cartons containing glassware. Place a layer of padding at both the top and bottom of the carton. All glass items should be individually wrapped. Plates generally are safest when stood on edge, not set flat. Use packing paper to fill empty space. These boxes should be kept to less than 25 lbs for easy lifting.

Refrigerators or freezers should be completely dry and stored with their doors slightly ajar. Cartons can be stacked on top of stoves, refrigerators, and freezers. Cooking equipment should be cleaned before storing.

Wrap large lamp bases and smaller lamps and place them in boxes. Pack delicate lampshades separately. Do not use newsprint to wrap lampshades or other goods which can be damaged by ink stains. Do not store heavy items on top of boxes containing lamps or lampshades.

Break down large items such as bed frames, tables, and large furniture, and don't forget to keep all parts (screws and smaller items) together by taping them to the item.

Wrap furniture legs with protective bubble wrap, furniture covers or pads to prevent scratching.

Use furniture covers or moving pads to keep items off the floor of the unit.

Place a pallet on the floor and stand sofas and mattresses on end.

Turn outside furniture upside down prior to storing, such that all water will be drained.

If available, pack small appliances and electronics in their original boxes.

For holiday decorations, wrap ornaments in packing paper or newsprint. Curl strings of lights around a piece of cardboard and place lights in cartons lined with packing paper.

When storing business files, leave a walkway down the center of your unit to make accessing items easier.

Drain any fluids prior to storing lawnmowers or any other motorized equipment.

Never store food or perishables.

Never store hazardous materials or anything that is flammable (i.e. paint, chemicals, etc).

Contact us with any further questions you may have – our family is here to help make your move easy.