Moving Techniques

Most movers, especially the do-it-yourself kind, are so happy to finally arrive in their new home that they don't even mind that the dinner plates are chipped, there's a scratch on the coffee table or their favorite lampshade is bruised and battered. But there's no reason your household goods should become casualties of the move. With a little care and planning, you and your stuff will both arrive in mint condition.

A little common sense helps. Think of a stack of dishes in a box on the bed of a bouncing truck. No matter how well the sides are padded, a firm up-and-down jolt could crack the entire stack. On the other hand, dishes packed on edge and surrounded by bubble wrap have a better chance of surviving the trip unharmed.

Boxes & Moving Kits

In the long run, it pays to purchase the right packing materials. Sturdy boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and packing peanuts can be purchased at moving companies and truck-rental firms. Supplement with copious amounts of crumpled paper, blankets and pillows; even clothing can serve as a buffer between breakable objects. Then, pack with a plan.

Packing techniques

• Pack one room at a time, labeling each box with a description of its contents and its destination (e.g., kitchen, bathroom). Be as specific as you can; it will make unpacking that much easier.
• Keep the weight of your boxes reasonable. If possible, put heavy items in small boxes to make them easier to carry.
• Don't apply tape directly to polished or painted wood finishes. Removing the tape could ruin the surface.
• Double-box fragile items and add plenty of cushioning.

What you'll need for the first night/day

When everything is packed and ready to load, make sure the items you need least are loaded first. Again, common sense is essential when loading the truck. Place the box containing your best china on top of the box of encyclopedias and not vice versa.

Prepare for the first night in your new home by packing essential items in a separate bag and carrying it with you. You may even want to prepare a simple meal that you can heat and serve on your first night.

• For each person in the household: a change of clothes, a towel, prescription drugs, a toothbrush, and other personal items.
• For everyone: plastic utensils, paper plates, paper towels, plastic cups, toilet paper, toiletries, trash bags, a flashlight, first aid kit including pain relievers, pencil and paper, snacks, beverages, and re-closable plastic bags.
• Small tool kit for re-assembling items that couldn't be moved whole.

Packing with good technique and the right materials can mean an easier move and fewer chipped dishes.