Proper packing is the cornerstone of a successful move. Whether you're moving across town or across the country, how you pack your belongings determines whether they arrive safely at your new home. After thousands of moves, we've perfected these professional packing strategies that will protect your items and make unpacking a breeze.
Essential Packing Materials
Before you start packing, gather the right materials. Quality packing supplies are an investment that pays off in protected belongings and peace of mind.
Basic Supplies You'll Need:
- Various box sizes: Small (1.5 cubic feet) for heavy items, medium (3 cubic feet) for general items, large (4.5 cubic feet) for light, bulky items
- Specialty boxes: Wardrobe boxes, dish packs, mirror/picture boxes
- Packing tape: Professional-grade, 2-3 inches wide
- Bubble wrap: Various sizes for different items
- Packing paper: Newsprint or clean packing paper
- Markers: Different colors for room coding
- Labels: For detailed content description
- Plastic bags: For small parts and hardware
Advanced Materials for Extra Protection:
- Furniture pads and moving blankets
- Stretch wrap for securing items
- Foam corner protectors
- Anti-static bubble wrap for electronics
- Acid-free tissue paper for delicate items
The Foundation: Proper Box Preparation
A well-prepared box is the foundation of safe packing. Taking time to properly prepare your boxes prevents collapse and damage during transport.
Box Assembly Best Practices:
- Tape the bottom thoroughly: Use the H-pattern - tape along the center seam and both edges
- Test weight capacity: New boxes can typically hold their stated weight limit
- Line fragile item boxes: Add extra padding at the bottom for breakables
- Check for damage: Don't use boxes with tears, dents, or previous damage
Strategic Packing by Item Category
Books and Heavy Items
Books are deceptively heavy and can quickly exceed safe lifting weights. Pack them strategically:
- Use small boxes exclusively for books
- Pack books flat to prevent spine damage
- Fill gaps with packing paper to prevent shifting
- Consider mixing books with lighter items to balance weight
- Wrap valuable or rare books individually
Clothing and Textiles
Clothing is relatively easy to pack but requires organization for efficient unpacking:
- Wardrobe boxes: Keep hanging clothes wrinkle-free
- Vacuum bags: Compress bulky items like comforters and winter coats
- Dresser packing: Leave clothes in drawers if the dresser isn't too heavy
- Seasonal separation: Pack off-season items first
Kitchen Items and Dishes
Kitchens contain the most breakable items in your home. Professional techniques are essential:
Dish Packing Method:
- Line the box bottom with crumpled paper
- Wrap each dish individually in packing paper
- Place dishes vertically (like records) rather than stacked
- Fill gaps with crumpled paper
- Add extra padding on top before sealing
Glassware Protection:
- Wrap each piece in bubble wrap
- Stuff hollow items (glasses, bowls) with paper
- Use dividers or individual cells for wine glasses
- Never pack glassware with heavier items
Small Appliances:
- Use original boxes when possible
- Remove and pack removable parts separately
- Secure cords with rubber bands or twist ties
- Add extra padding around heating elements
Electronics and Technology
Electronics require special care due to their sensitivity and value:
Preparation Steps:
- Back up all data before packing computers
- Take photos of cable connections
- Remove batteries from devices
- Use anti-static materials for sensitive components
Packing Techniques:
- Original packaging: Use whenever available
- TV packing: Use TV boxes or wrap in moving blankets
- Computer packing: Remove hard drives if containing sensitive data
- Cable management: Label all cables and pack in separate, labeled bags
Fragile Items: Professional Protection Techniques
Artwork and Mirrors
Flat, fragile items require special handling:
- Use mirror boxes or custom-built crates
- Wrap in bubble wrap with bubbles against the surface
- Mark boxes clearly as "FRAGILE" and "THIS SIDE UP"
- Never lay flat items horizontally during transport
Lamps and Light Fixtures
- Remove bulbs and pack separately
- Wrap shades in tissue paper
- Disassemble when possible
- Use original boxes for expensive fixtures
Furniture Packing and Protection
Preparation Steps:
- Disassemble when possible: Removes stress points and saves space
- Keep hardware together: Tape bags of screws and bolts to the furniture piece
- Remove or secure loose parts: Drawers, shelves, and glass tops
- Clean before wrapping: Prevents dirt from scratching during transport
Protection Methods:
- Moving blankets: Wrap entire pieces to prevent scratches
- Plastic wrap: Secure blankets and protect upholstery
- Corner protectors: Use foam protectors on table corners
- Mattress bags: Protect mattresses from dirt and moisture
Box Labeling and Organization System
A good labeling system is crucial for efficient unpacking and helps movers handle boxes appropriately.
Essential Information for Each Box:
- Destination room: Where the box should go
- Content description: Brief but specific
- Fragile indicators: Multiple sides if applicable
- Box number: For inventory tracking
- Priority level: "Open First" for essentials
Color-Coding System:
Use different colored labels or markers for each room:
- Red: Kitchen
- Blue: Master bedroom
- Green: Living room
- Yellow: Bathroom
- Orange: Children's rooms
Weight Distribution and Box Loading
Weight Guidelines:
- Small boxes: Maximum 50 pounds
- Medium boxes: Maximum 65 pounds
- Large boxes: Maximum 70 pounds (use for light, bulky items)
Loading Strategy:
- Pack heavy items at the bottom
- Fill all gaps to prevent shifting
- Don't under-pack - loose items move and break
- Don't over-pack - boxes become too heavy and may break
Last-Minute Packing Tips
Essential Box for First Day:
Pack one clearly marked box with immediate necessities:
- Basic tools (screwdriver, hammer, box cutter)
- Phone chargers
- Toiletries and medications
- Change of clothes
- Snacks and water
- Important documents
- Basic cleaning supplies
Items to Pack Separately:
- Valuable jewelry and important documents
- Prescription medications
- Irreplaceable photographs
- Emergency kit items
- Laptop or tablet for immediate connectivity
Common Packing Mistakes to Avoid
- Using poor quality boxes: Invest in new, sturdy boxes
- Overpacking boxes: Heavy boxes are dangerous and more likely to break
- Inadequate padding: Items should not move when the box is shaken
- Poor labeling: Vague labels make unpacking chaotic
- Mixing room items: Keep items from the same room together
- Forgetting to clean: Don't pack dirt and grime
Professional vs. DIY Packing
While these strategies will help you pack like a professional, consider your circumstances:
DIY Packing Works Best When:
- You have ample time before your move
- You're moving locally and can replace damaged items easily
- You have few fragile or valuable items
- Budget is a primary concern
Professional Packing is Worth It When:
- You have valuable antiques or artwork
- You're moving long-distance
- Time is limited
- You have back or mobility issues
- You want insurance coverage for packing-related damage
Remember, even with perfect packing techniques, some items are irreplaceable. Take photos of valuable items before packing and consider additional insurance coverage for high-value belongings.
Let the Professionals Handle It
While these packing strategies will serve you well, professional packers bring years of experience and the right materials for every situation. At Ligulbacch Canada, our trained packing specialists can ensure your belongings are protected with professional-grade materials and expert techniques.
Our comprehensive packing services include full packing, partial packing, and fragile-only packing options to meet your specific needs and budget.