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Separate
your boxes by size, and place appropriate size boxes
in each room.
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Have
all supplies (i.e. tape, bubble wraps, packing paper)
lined up next to your boxes when packing.
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Pack
one room at a time, marking each box with a description
of its contents and destination (i.e. kitchen, master
bath).
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Put
heavy items in small boxes and light items in large
boxes. Keep weight of boxes reasonable. Group items
of similar size and weight. Wrap heaviest items first
with bubble wrap or packing paper and place on bottom
of box. Wrap lighter items with same and place on top
of heavier items, separated by bubble. Fill all voids
with packing paper or bubble wrap to prevent shifting.
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Double
box fragile items and fill voids between boxes with
packing paper or bubble cushioning to avoid shifting.
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Use
"FRAGILE" labels on boxes with breakable items. This
will alert movers to handle with care.
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When
making boxes, reinforce the bottom of all boxes with
2" packing tape. Start by taping the seam where the
two flaps meet, leaving 4' of overlap on each side.
Add two more strips in the same direction, on both sides
of your first strip, approximately half way between
your strip and the edge of the box. For additional reinforcement,
add two perpendicular strips equidistant from each other
and the edge of the box. Use a tape dispenser to make
the job easier.
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Fill
each box as much as possible using packing paper to
fill empty space to prevent shifting and breakage.
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Make
sure tops and sides of boxes do not bulge or sag. Under-packed
boxes may collapse and over-packed boxes may rupture.
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For
books, lay flat and alternate bindings to prevent damage.
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Pack
plates on their edges in double wall corrugated dish
boxes. Dish/Glass Dividers (also known as cell packs)
will help keep these items safe and organized.
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Bubble
wrap your fragile items. Small bubble is recommended
for smaller, lighter weight items. Large bubble (more
air in bubbles) is recommended for larger, heavier weight
items. For added protection, line your box with bubble
before packing.
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To
keep large items clean and sanitary, use mattress bags,
furniture bags, and stretch wrap.
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Use
moving blankets to wrap furniture, appliances, TV's,
or other large objects.
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Use
only strong, corrugated carton boxes with covers. The
added strength may avoid damage that results from the
use of poor-quality packing materials.
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Collect
old newspapers for use in packing, but remember that
ink may rub off and stain clothing or other items.
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Keep
in mind that insect eggs and insects can travel in food
boxes.