Important Tips for DIY Sturdy Packing

Full service moving companies offer a host of services that cater to the every need of their clients. One of these services is packing. However, moving sensitive electronic equipment or other fragile items can be nerve-wracking, especially when left to the hands of movers. In addition to this, people who are on a budget would much rather do the packing themselves in order. Now the question is, how can you securely pack your important belongings? Is it possible to pack them in a way that keeps them safe before during and after transport?

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Here are some tips that you can follow:

1. Secure the boxes

   To effectively secure a box, tape the seam on the bottom and run a piece of tape perpendicular to that seam. Pad the bottom of the box with old newspaper and stuff the insides with extra papers to make the bottom really solid. If you're packing items other than clothes and linens, it's probably a good idea to pack each item with paper. Once the box has been filled, tape it shut.

2. Fill it up

   Make sure that each box is completely filled or they may get crushed or dented during transport. Use packing materials to fill corners and empty spaces. Or better yet, roll your towels and shirts and place them inside boxes as fillers.

3. Label your boxes

   It's crucial to label your boxes with your name and contact numbers. You should also indicate the contents of the box in order to guide your movers as well as yourself when it comes to unloading. You can also label the box with what room you intend it to be brought in. Lastly, make sure to put the labels on the sides of the boxes and not on top so that it is more visible even when they're stacked on top of one another.

4. Fill your drawers

   If you want to save up on boxes and time too, simply take the drawers out of desks and cabinets and use them as you would a regular moving box. This is advisable for drawers that don't contain anything breakable. Once the drawer is full (with things like socks or notebooks), you can then stretch tape around the top of the drawer to hold its contents in place. Use masking tape so it won't take the paint off your drawers and remember to take them out right away upon delivery so it doesn't damage the furniture.

5. Stand plates on their edge

   Cover each plate with paper and stand them on their sides/edges. This is actually safe then when they're placed bottoms-down on the box. Remember to include plenty of stuffing or padding at the bottom of the box first.

6. Clean before you pack

   Give your items a proper cleaning and dusting before you pack them. Make sure that they're nice and dry before you wrap or place them in boxes. This will not only ensure safety but also give you the satisfaction of retrieving clean items once you unpack.

7. Don't be afraid to buy specialized materials

   Wardrobe boxes, furniture bags, mattress bags, special frame boxes (for paintings and mirrors) and plastic wrapping are some of the things that will help you protect your belongings. Don't be afraid to spend on these things if you have a little extra budget.

8. Start packing way ahead of time

   Rushing the packing process is probably the most dangerous thing you can do. Be sure to start packing as early as possible. You can start with items that you rarely use (a guest room, out of season clothing) and work your way to your necessities.

See also: Risks Associated with a Self-Move

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Invite your friends and family to help you out when you start packing. This way the process will be faster and much more fun! And if you want to make your entire moving process fun and hassle-free as well, contact 9Kilo today so we can find you credible movers who would be more than happy to help you too. Click here to get the list of best full-service moving companies in the United States. See also: What to Do with Packing Materials After a Move