You
can save a lot of money if you do the bulk of
the packing on your own. Limit yourself to non-fragile
items such as books, linens, clothing and shoes;
and replaceable items such as plates, dishes (not
fine china or expensive silverware), and small
kitchen appliances.
Boxes
and Packing Supplies
It
pays to have the right packing materials. Sturdy
boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, packing peanuts
and blankets among other protective items, fill
in with generous amounts of wadded newsprint, blankets
and pillows can add extra protection between breakable
objects.
Packing
Techniques
-
Pack
one room at a time, each box should be labeled
with a description of its contents and its destination
(such as "kitchen," or "living room"). The more
specific you can be, the easier it will make
unpacking.
-
Keep
the weight of your boxes reasonable. Heavy items
are best packed in small boxes to make them
easier to carry.
-
Tape
should not be applied directly to polished or
painted wood finishes. Removing the tape could
ruin the surface.
-
Fragile
items should be double-boxed with plenty of
cushioning.
What
You May Need for the First Night/Day
Prepare
for the first night in your new home by packing
essential items in a separate bag and carrying it
with you. For each person in the household a change
of clothes, a towel, prescription drugs, a toothbrush,
and other personal items should be readily available.
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 plastic bags will come
in handy.
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