Moving Tips

Dining/Living Room

Most pictures and mirrors can be wrapped and packed in telescoping mirror cartons. Fragile or valuable fine art may requite special crating and should be handled by your moving professional.

Television
Some big-screen televisions will need to be crated prior to moving day. Let your moving professional know if you have a big screen television.

• Call your local cable company to request your service discontinued. If you have a converter box, return the box and keep the receipt for future reference. Contact your cable company at your destination to order service in your new home.
• When choosing a location for your TV in your new home, place it on a hard surface at least six feet from your normal viewing pistion. Most TVs should not be placed in an enclosed space unless proper ventilation is provided.

Click here for more information on transporting plasma televisions.

Videocasette Recorder (VCR)

No special servicing is required to move a VCR. When installing at destination, place on a hard surface, provide appropriate ventilation for openings and do not set objects on top.

Satellite Dish

Contact an electrician or technician from a satellite dish distributorship for the disconnection and disassembly of this sensitive equipment. Depending upon the construction and size of the unit, it may need to be crated, a service which your moving professional can provide.

Compact Discs, Tapes & Records

• Stand compact discs and records on edge, never flat, on a layer of crushed paper. Support at both ends with large, hardcover books or several pieces of cardboard cut to fit. Top with another layer of crushed paper. Identify contents on the outside of the box and mark “FRAGILE.”
• Cassette tapes should be placed in their cases and wrapped individually in crumpled paper. Place individual tapes either vertically or horizontally on a couple of layers of crushed paper.
• If records are not in jackets, wrap individually in tissue paper or plastic wrap to protect from scratches. Records are heavy and therefore should be packed in small cartons.

Compact Discs, Tapes & Records

• Stand compact discs and records on edge, never flat, on a layer of crushed paper. Support at both ends with large, hardcover books or several pieces of cardboard cut to fit. Top with another layer of crushed paper. Identify contents on the outside of the box and mark “FRAGILE.”
• Cassette tapes should be placed in their cases and wrapped individually in crumpled paper. Place individual tapes either vertically or horizontally on a couple of layers of crushed paper.
• If records are not in jackets, wrap individually in tissue paper or plastic wrap to protect from scratches. Records are heavy and therefore should be packed in small cartons.

Books
Pack books of the same general size together, in small book cartons.

• Pack them either flat, or with the spine touching the bottom of the carton. Do not pack with spine facing upward, as glue can break away from the binder.
• Expensively bound volumes or those of sentimental value should be individually wrapped before packing.

Photographs
Family photographs, videos, slides and negatives should be packed in separate cartons rather than being combined with other household items. (Note: watch these when moving to very hot or humid climates by making sure the storage area protects items from the elements.)

• Protect framed photos with padding and cushioning, standing them on edge in a carton. Label cartons for easy identification.
• If possible, carry irreplaceable items with you to destination.

Silk or Artificial Flowers
An arrangement of artificial flowers should be packed in a separate carton. Wrap carefully in plastic wrap, tissue paper or paper towels. If possible, fasten the base of the floral piece to the bottom of the carton to prevent shifting. Label the carton “FRAGILE – THIS SIDE UP.”

Lamp Bases
After removing the light bulb and lamp harp, wrap the base, harp and bulb separately in newsprint. Place them together in a carton, filling voids with wadded paper.

Lamp Shades
Never wrap lamp shades in newspaper, as the ink will soil the shade. Instead, carefully wrap each shade in three or four sheets of tissue paper, a pillowcase or a large lightweight towel.

• Use a sturdy carton at least two inches bigger all around than the largest shade. Line it with clean paper, using crushed paper under the lamp shade to create a protective layer, but not around the shade. A smaller shade may be nested inside a larger one, provided they do not touch. Only one silk shade should be placed in a carton to avoid stretching the silk.
• Do not pack other items with shades. Label cartons “LAMP SHADES – FRAGILE – TOP LOAD ONLY.”

Chandeliers and Leaded Glass Shades
It is best to have your moving professional crate large leaded or other glass lamp shades or chandeliers. 

Glass Table Tops, Marble Slabs, Large Mirrors, Paintings, Statues & Large Vases
It’s best to consult with your moving professional about custom-made cartons and crates for items of this kind. Paper should never be permitted to touch the surface of an oil painting.

Rugs
Leave area rugs on the floor for the moving company to handle.

TV Stand/ Stereo Cabinet
Remove glass doors if possible and pack in a mirror carton.

Furniture
Your van operator will shrink wrap large, upholstered items.

• Talk to your moving professional beforehand about any leather items.
• Table corners can be protected with cardboard.
• You may want to consider packing couch pillows in large boxes.

Piano
A qualified service provider should take care of the preparations for moving a grand or baby grand piano.

• Upright (spinet, console, studio) pianos usually do not require preparation in advance. All pianos are pad-wrapped to protect the surface.
• Plan to have your piano tuned at your new home.

Pool Table
Disassembly and crating of your pool table should be provided by a third-party service. If possible, contact the store where the pool table was purchased to obtain assistance.

• Crating is a possibility on slate.
• You will need to make arrangements at destination to have the pool table uncrated, reassembled and leveled.

The dining room will generally include your most fragile china and crystal stemware. Each item should be carefully wrapped in paper and placed in dishpack cartons; cellular dividers are recommended for stemware. You will also want to include any items with values exceeding $100 per pound on your “High Value Inventory” form to receive proper valuation coverage.

China & Glassware
Wrap all pieces of china and glassware individually. Using several sheets of clean paper, start from the corner, wrapping diagonally and continuously tucking in overlapping edges.

• A generous amount of paper padding and cushioning is required for all china and glassware.
• A double layer of newsprint serves well as outer wrapping.
• Label cartons with room contents and “FRAGILE – THIS SIDE UP.”

Flat China & Flat Glassware
Place cushioning material in the bottom of a carton. Wrap each piece individually with clean paper, then wrap up to three in a bundle with a double layer of newsprint. Place these bundled items in the carton in a row on edge.

• Larger china and glass plates, platters and other flat pieces are excellent as the lowest layer in a dish pack.
• Surround each bundle with crushed paper, being careful to leave no voids or unfilled spaces.
• Add two or three inches of wadded paper on top of the bundle to protect rims and make a level base for the next tier.
• Horizontal cardboard dividers can be helpful in keeping layers level.
• Smaller plates, saucers and shallow bowls could make up a second layer. Wrap and pack in the same way as larger items.

Cups
If not using cellular dividers wrap cups individually, first in a double layer of paper and place them upside down on rims, in a row on an upper layer with all handles facing the same direction. Top off the layer with wadded newsprint. Even when using a dish pack and cellular dividers, wrap china cups individually first, protecting handles with an extra layer of clean paper. Then, pack cups upside down. 

Silver & Flatware
To protect silver pieces from tarnishing, they should be completely enclosed in newsprint or plastic wrap.

• Hollow ware — including bowls, tea sets and serving dishes – should be wrapped carefully like fragile items and packed like china.
• Loose flatware may be wrapped individually or in sets, and in paper, clear plastic or small gift boxes that are then secured with tape.
• Even if silverware is in a chest, consider wrapping the pieces individually and reposition them in the chest. Or, fill all voids in the chest with newsprint to prevent shifting. The chest can be wrapped in a large bath towel.

Figurines, Curios and Other Delicate Items
Be sure the items are well-protected with plenty of cushioning.

• Wrap first in tissue paper, paper towels or facial tissue. Then, wrap carefully in paper that has been wadded and flattened out.
• Small mirrors, plaques and pictures should be wrapped individually in tissue paper with an outer layer of newsprint.
• A bath towel or small blanket makes an excellent outer wrapping and padding for glass.
• Place flat items on edge in a carton.

Fragile Items
Consult with your Moving Professional on the packing of exceptionally fragile items. Items with values exceeding $100 per pound need to be listed on your “High Value Inventory” form to receive proper valuation coverage. If an item is extremely valuable as well as delicate, it might be wise to have it packed for you. Special materials might be needed for maximum protection. 

Table Leaves
Table leaves are best transported in paper pads then taped to hold the padding in place. (Note: never place tope on the surface of wood.) Don’t use plastic wrap, as moisture may get trapped and damage wood. 

Draperies & Curtains
Wardrobe cartons are ideal for moving curtains and drapes. Fold them lengthwise, place over a padded hangar, pin securely and hang in the wardrobe. Draperies and curtains also may be folded and packed in cartons lined with clean paper or plastic wrap. 

Back to Top

---

Kitchen / Laundry Room
Once you know you’re moving, you can begin packing your kitchen almost immediately by starting with your less-used serving dishes, seasonal items and small appliances. Next, tackle your large serving bowls, tablecloths and specialty pots and pans. Keep your everyday dishes for the last week before your move. You may even want to consider buying some disposable plates, cups and utensils for those last few nights when everything is packed away.

Food Items
Use or dispose of all perishables before moving. You will also need to get rid of cleaning products and other kitchen chemicals. Boxed or canned goods should be packed in small boxes. Dispose of any open packages and wrap glass jars to prevent breakage. 

China & Glassware
Wrap all pieces of china and glassware individually. Using several sheets of clean paper, start from the corner, wrapping diagonally and continuously tucking in overlapping edges. A double layer of newsprint serves well as outer wrapping.

• A generous amount of paper padding and cusioning is required for all china and glassware.
• Label cartons with room, contents and “Fragile-This Side Up.”

Flat China & Flat Glassware
Larger china and glass plates, platters and other flat pieces are excellent as the lowest layer in a dish pack.

• Place cushioning material in the bottom of a carton. Wrap each piece individually with clean paper, then wrap up to three in a bundle with a double layer of newsprint. Place these bundled items in the carton in a row on edge.
• Surround each bundle with crushed paper, being careful to leave no voids or unfilled spaces. Add two or three inches of wadded paper on top of the bundle to protect rims and make a level base for the next tier. Horizontal cardboard dividers can be helpful in keeping layers level.
• Smaller plates, saucers and shallow bowls could make up a second layer. Wrap and pack in the same way as larger items.

Bowls and Odd-Shaped Items
Depending on their weight, these might be used for either the bottom or middle layers. Wrap the same way as flat plates.

• Stand shallow bowls (soup plates, etc.) on edge in the carton and deeper ones (such as mixing bowls) nested two or three together, upside down on their rims.
• Wrap sugar bowl lids in newsprint, turning them upside down on top of bowls. Then, wrap both together in newsprint, followed by a double outer layer. Wrap sugar bowls, cream pitchers, sauce containers, gravy boats and similar pieces in newsprint and then a double outer wrapping. Place all upright in the carton, then top off the layer with wadded newsprint.

Pots & Pans
Pots, pans and similar items should be wrapped and packed in medium size cartons. Depending on their weight, these might be used for either the bottom or middle layers. 

Cups
Even when using a dish pack and cellular dividers, wrap china cups individually first, protecting handles with an extra layer of clean paper. Then, pack cups upside down. If not using cellular dividers, wrap cups individually first in a double layer of paper and place them upside down on rims in a row on an upper layer with all handles facing the same direction. Top off the layer with wadded newsprint. 

Silver & Flatware
To protect silver pieces from tarnishing, they should be completely enclosed in newsprint or plastic wrap. Hollow ware — including bowls, tea sets and serving dishes – should be wrapped carefully like fragile items and packed like china.

• Loose flatware may be wrapped individually or in sets, and in paper, clear plastic bags or small gift boxes that are then secured with tape.
• Even if silverware is in a chest, consider wrapping the pieces individually and repositioning them in the chest. Or, fill all voids in the chest with newsprint to prevent shifting. The chest can be wrapped in a large bath towel.

Figurines and Other Delicate Items
Be sure the items are well-protected with plenty of cushioning.

• Wrap first in tissue paper, paper towels or facial tissue. Then, wrap carefully in paper that has been wadded and flattened out.
• Small mirrors, plaques and pictures should be wrapped individually in tissue paper with an outer layer of newsprint.
• A bath towel or small blanket makes an excellent outer wrapping and padding for glass. Place items on edge in a carton.

Fragile Items
Consult with your Moving Professional on the packing of exceptionally fragile items.

• Items with values exceeding $100 per pound will need to be listed on your “High Value Inventory” form to receive proper valuation coverage.
• If an item is extremely valuable as well as delicate, it might be wise to have it packed for you. Special materials might be needed for maximum protection.

Small Appliances
Items such as clocks, small radios and other small appliances should be wrapped individually and packed in a carton cushioned with crushed paper. If their cords disconnect, wrap them in plastic and secure them to the appliance they belong to.

– Make sure cords are wrapped so as not to scratch or damage items.

– Steam irons should be emptied of all water, wrapped and placed in the cushioned bottom of a box.

Cookbooks
Pack cookbooks of the same general size together, in small book cartons.

Back to Top

---

Bedroom/Bathroom
Start packing your bedrooms by tackling less-used guest rooms first. Children can help by setting aside the toys and books they want to take with them and packing the rest in boxes. Colorful stickers on the outside of boxes let children know their personal belongings are clearly marked, and allow them to identify their things when the moving van is unloaded.

Clothing
Hanging clothing from closets can be left on hangars and placed in wardrobe cartons. You may want to consider purchasing several of these special cartons from your moving company. One will hold about two feet of compressed clothing on hangers; figure more cartons if wrinkles are a concern.

• If wardrobe cartons are not used, each garment should be removed from its hangar, folded and placed in a suitcase or a carton lined with clean paper.
• It is recommended that you take your furs with you rather than having them moved in the van, as irreparable damage can occur due to heat or humidity.

Shoes
Footwear may be left in shoe boxes and placed in large cartons, or wrapped individually and then in pairs. Footwear should be cushioned to avoid damage to heels or ornaments. Do not pack heavy items on top of shoes.

Hats
Hats may be left in hatboxes and placed in large cartons, or stuff the crown of each hat with crumpled tissue paper, wrap tissue loosely around the outside and place in a carton lined with clean paper, with the heavier hats at the bottom. Don’t pack anything else with hats. Label the carton “FRAGILE.”

Jewelry
Valuables such as fine jewelry should be removed from drawers and never packed with your household goods. They will be most secure if they remain in your possession.

Toiletries
Dispose of aerosol spray cans, such as hairspray or deodorant, or take them with you. Other bottles should be carefully taped shut and wrapped to prevent leakage, then packed in small cartons.

Bedding, Linens & Towels
Blankets, sheets, tablecloths, towels, pillowcases and other linens may be protected by a large plastic bag and packed in a carton that has been lined with clean paper.

• Wrap your most prized possessions in tissue. Also, linens and bedding are good for cushioning or padding many other items.
• If you decide to wash your linens before you pack them, make sure they are thoroughly dried first.

Mattresses & Pillows
Mattresses should be placed in mattress cartons for added strength and cleanliness. Pillows may be placed in bureau drawers or packed in cartons. They also make good padding for other items.

Bed Frame
If you can dismantle any bed frames beforehand, it will be one less thing to worry about on moving day.

Mirrors & Pictures
Most pictures and mirrors can be wrapped and packed in telescoping mirror cartons. However, if they are especially heavy, crating is recommended.

Draperies & Curtains
Wardrobe cartons are ideal for moving curtains and drapes. Fold them lengthwise, place over a padded hangar, pin securely and hang in the wardrobe. Draperies and curtains also may be folded and packed in cartons lined with clean paper or plastic wrap.

Rugs
Leave area rugs on the floor for the moving company to handle.

• You may want to consider having your area rugs professionally cleaned before your move – you’ll get them back from the cleaners wrapped, rolled and ready for shipping.
• Area rugs should be loaded last and unloaded first so the furniture coming off the truck can go right on top of the rug.

Back to Top

---

Den/Home Office
Your home office will likely contain your important paperwork and legal papers. Set these aside beforehand and plan to take them with you. Computer equipment and other valuables that exceed $100 per pound will need to be listed on your “High Value Inventory” form to receive proper valuation coverage.

Home Computer
Back up all files on a floppy disc, CD, DVD or tape and take with you. 

Home Copier
If your home copier is larger than desk size, it must be serviced by a professional before transport.

• Remove the paper tray and cartridge.
• Secure the document cover, exit tray and alternate paper tray before packing.
• If your unit comes with shipping pins, which keep the internal parts in place during transit, they should be removed from the storage location on the document cover and placed according to directions in the owner’s manual.

Home Printer
The toner and laser cartridges of any laser printer should be removed. Dispose of them safely and get new ones at your destination. On other types of printers, the print head should be secured by a professional, with preparation depending on the model. 

Books
Pack books of the same general size together, in small book cartons.

• Pack them either flat, or with the spine touching the bottom of the carton. Do not pack with spine facing upward, as glue can break away from the binder.
• Expensively bound volumes of those of sentimental value should be individually wrapped before packing.

Office Furniture
Any modular office furniture will need to be dismantled prior to move day. Use tape to mark where pieces go together and keep the hardware together (including drawer pulls) in one spot, like a plastic bag or coffee can. 

Back to Top

---

Garage/Storage
Garages and storage sheds typically take the longest to pack, as they are filled with odd-shaped, sharp or heavy items that require special care to pack correctly. Start by safely disposing of items that cannot be shipped, like pesticides, fertilizers, oil and gas. See our list of Items That Cannot Be Shipped. Next, group items of a similar size or shape together, like long-handled tools with pruning shears. Then, make sure you have an assortment of boxes and newsprint to properly wrap and cushion items.

Tools
Long-handled garden tools, as well as brooms and mops, should be bundled together securely. Attachments should be removed from power tools and packed separately.

• Hand tools may be left in tool boxes and the spaces filled with crushed paper, or they may be packed according to general packing rules. Always use small cartons for heavy tools.
• Use old towels to wrap and tape any sharp-edged tools.

Rakes & Brooms
Shovels, rakes, brooms and the like need not be packed; gather them together for your driver to bundle in a pad. 

Lawn & Patio Furniture
Remove pads and clean frames. Pack pads in large carton or wardrobe. 

Umbrella
Keep it clean and dry during transport by wrapping it in paper padding or a plastic bag and taping shut. Do not pack the weighted umbrella stand.

Grill
Dispose of any unused charcoal. Remove tank – it cannot be transported in the moving van. 

Outdoor Equipment
Before moving day, dismantle children’s swing sets, TV antennas and garden sheds you plan to take with you.

• Place small hardware in a plastic bag or old coffee can and label.
• If the parts bag can be securely attached to corresponding equipment, all the better.
• Prepare lawn mower by safely draining gasoline prior to loading day.

Pots & Planters
Pack small ceramic or pottery planters like any fragile item – individually wrapped with plenty of cushioning. Pots and planters need to be cleaned out and fumigated before being moved. If you plan to move any large or unusual planters, consult your moving professional. 

Trash Cans
It may be easier just to buy new garbage cans at your destination.

• Clean and disinfect cans if you plan to take them with you.
• If your cans are seal-able or roll-able, you may pack items in them, just don’t make them too heavy.

Vehicles
You have the option of moving your vehicles with your household goods, or separately through an auto transport service such as Florida Auto Transportation, Inc.

Consult with your moving professional on the following items found out and around your home:

• Above Ground Swimming Pool
• Hot Tub
• Satellite Dish
• Storage Shed
• Swing Set
• Jungle Gym
• Dog House or Kennel
• Riding Mower
• Gas Leaf Blower
• Snow Blower
• Motor Scooter
• Moped
• Trampoline