Packing: Tried and True Tips and Tricks

The biggest 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 in-home survey, your relocation specialist 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 issue truly is- what's the first step? We’re happy to provide our expert packing advice with our customers, and you’ll be on your way to an stress-free move!

Where to start?

Getting your things ready can be a stressful time: boxes everywhere. We can help you make it easier for you. Here are some packing tips that will help you begin the process:

• Organize how you will pack. You will want to first pack the items you use the least.
• 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 keep better track of your belongings, write down 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 moving company.
• Divide breakables and items that won't break.
• Use high-quality packing tape instead of masking tape; it is stronger.

How to: Books

Place your book collection flat in the carton, switching the spine/open side of the book. Place a piece 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

Tape bottles closed and cover in fresh paper. For extra security, put bottles in a resealable, watertight ziplock bag before wrapping and placing 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 eliminated the risk of spills.

How to: China

China is highly breakable, which necessitates additional precautions. These packing tips can prevent damage while these items are moved:

• First, wrap fine china in layers of white tissue paper, and place white tissue paper in the bottom of a dishpack for cushioning.
• Wrap each piece of china individually.
• For plates, place these items in the carton in a row on their edge (so they are standing up).
• Surround with scrunched-up 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 few inches of paper will do great.
• Smaller plates, saucers and shallow bowls can make up a subsequent level. Wrap and pack in the same way as above.

How to: Clothing

Leave your clothes on hangers and store them in a special hanging box. You can always ask your moving specialist for some wardrobe boxes.

How to: Computers

Whenever feasible, pack computers/electronics in their original boxes if available. Otherwise, as long as you use proper packing materials (bubble wrap, newsprint, blankets, etc), computers and electronic equipment can be safely packed in virtually any box. Follow these packing tips for simple care:

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

Be careful 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

Your lamp's shades can be a little tricky. Be careful with lamp shades by their wire frames and place them in a container that has paper padding. Also cover the shade with protective paper. You can nest shades inside each other, as long as they are separated by paper.

How to: Mirrors and Glass

Wrap the mirror in a cushion of blank paper. Place in a flattened storage or telescoping carton. Carefully seal the carton. Always stand glass on their side. They may crack if they are rested flat.

How to: Shoes

If the shoes are stained, a plastic bag can keep other items clean during the move. If possible, pack each pair of shoes in their own box, and place in a storage container. If you do not have shoeboxes handy, individually wrap each pair.

How to: Silver

When packing silverware, we recommend to cover each piece in clean paper, and then place them in a box.

How to: Soft Goods/Bedding

It is best to pack soft materials like pillows, bedding, and blankets in cartons with protective lining separated by layers of fresh paper. This will keep your sheets tidy and free from dust and dirt during your move.

How to: Statues and Figurines

Anything delicate is best packed into a dishpack. Since these are double the strength of standard boxes, they can hold approximately 70 pounds. Wrap these delicate pieces in tissue paper first, then packing peanuts. Add a generous amount of bubble wrap on the base, sides, and between breakable items inside of the carton.

How to: Stemware

Goblets should be wrapped individually with packing paper or bubble cushion inserted inside the cup and around its base. Protect each glass with a generous layer of cushioning material. Then put upside down with the stem upwards in a wine glass box.

When in doubt:

Contact your relocation specialist! With over nine decades of experience, we have the knowledge and ability to handle even the most sensitive and unusual items. Our specialists can advise the best packing techniques to handle specific pieces, ensuring your items make it from beginning to end without any cause for concern.