Moving Packing and Loading Tips

All aspects of your move should be preplanned and organized even the packing and loading of the smallest boxes. The more time you can plan ahead of the actual move the better. When packing up your items try to think ahead, to when you will be unpacking, what can you do when packing and loading that will make things easier when your at your new home unpacking. We've put together some moving, packing and loading tips, but before you begin I suggest you put together a few items to help with the packing and organizing of your belongings.

Moving supplies

• Gloves
• Knife
• Scissors
• Tool kit including: wrenches, screwdrivers, pliers etc.
• Wrapping paper such as old newspapers
• Bubble wrap
• Blankets
• Small containers or zip lock bags to store nuts, bolts and other small items
• Various sizes of boxes
• Cardboard
• Packing tape
• Felt marker

Packing Tips

• To provide greater protection for your belongings pack as much as you can into the boxes, this will also make loading your trailer much easier.  Odd shaped items take up more room and make loading more difficult.
• Check out the variety of boxes and packing supplies offered by the moving company or other resources such as the internet.  Don’t skimp on supplies it is far cheaper to spend a little more on packing materials then it is to replace broken or damaged items.  Take care in packing and padding your belongings.
• Start packing several weeks before your move date, taking it one room at a time.  Pack each room in separate boxes and label each box with its contents.  Begin with packing items you use less frequently.
• Reinforce the bottom of all boxes with tape; you may also consider placing an extra piece of cardboard in the bottom of the box.  Fill each box to its capacity, using paper or plastic fillers to eliminate empty spaces.  Be careful that the top and sides of each box do not bulge, nor should they cave in when they are closed.
• Heavier items should be placed in smaller boxes to keep the weight at manageable level.
• Lightweight items such as linens and clothing can be kept in their drawers.  Use a garbage bag to pack extra items such as; linens, pillows and towels. You can use these bags as cushions or fillers in your trailer.
• Be aware of items with sharp corners or projections and keep them from puncturing or scratching or scratching other objects.
• Disassemble any items you can.
• Pack your valuables and essentials separately and plan on keeping these times with you.

Pre-plan you’re load

Loading in a pre-planned order will greatly reduce loading time and fatigue.  It will also help in securing your belongings for the ride.  Consider placing cardboard or plastic sheeting on the floor of the trailer prior to loading to help protect your shipment.  You may also want to cover items with plastic sheets or tarps to protect them from becoming dusty.

Start with heavy appliances and load them on the floor against the front wall of the trailer.  Continue by loading heavier items toward the front of the trailer and on the floor.  Long pieces, such as sofas, can be stood on end and anchored by other large heavy items.  Save the space above for lighter items and properly secure them.  It is a good idea to load all items as tightly as possible to reduce shifting, rubbing and other damage during transit.

Be generous with blankets and padding, and place cardboard under anything that may be scuffed or soiled by riding directly on the floor of the trailer. Load mattresses and upholstered furniture up off of the floor.  Use bagged pillows, linens, towels and furniture cushions as well as additional paper and cardboard to fill all gaps and spaces. 

Planning ahead will help reduce much of the stress associated with moving. To help with this, future articles will go into more detail on the steps you can do to help organize and plan your move.