The following tips are to help you pack items properly:

CHINA

Carefully wrap china in sheets of clean newsprint paper. Place newsprint paper in the bottom of a Dishpak for cushioning. Wrap each piece individually then wrap up to three in a bundle with a double layer of paper. Place these bundled items in the carton in a row on edge. Surround each bundle with crushed paper, being careful to leave no unfilled spaces. Add two or three inches of crushed 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 can make up a second layer. Wrap and pack in the same way as larger items.

SILVER

Silver is nested together and wrapped in silver bags, acid free paper or “Silver paper”.

We do not carry or provide silver bags, acid free paper or silver paper. We will be happy to use those materials if you provide them at the time of service.

STEMWARE

Stemware is individually wrapped with protective paper inserted into the goblet and around the stem. Each goblet is cushioned by a thick wrapping and placed stem up in a specially tiered Dishpak.

LAMPSHADES & BASES

Handle lampshades by their wire frames only and place in a carton lined with paper. Surround the shade with protective paper. Shades can be nested inside each other, as long as they are separated by paper.

STATUARY & FIGURINES

Wrap statuary and figurines with bubble or foam wrap, then snugly wrap with clean paper. If bubble or foam wrap is not available, use clean paper to wrap the article until it is adequately cushioned.

MIRRORS & GLASS

Wrap the picture or mirror in a generous cushion of clean paper. Place in a flattened packing or telescoping carton. Carefully tape and seal the carton. Always stand glass, pictures and mirrors on their edge. Do not lay flat. (If moving locally or a short distance, ask us about a safe short cut to save time and money boxing these items.)

SOFT GOODS

Soft goods like pillows and bedding are packed in lined cartons or if cost is a concern, those items can be used as filler in larger cartons.

SHOES

Pack nicer shoes in their original shoebox, if possible, and place in a carton. If shoe boxes are not available, individually wrap them to prevent abrasive damage. Old or tennis shoes can be put into the bottom of a wardrobe box along with belts and other miscellaneous items.

CLOTHES

Clothes are left on hangers and hung in special wardrobe cartons. Clothes in dresser drawers can be left in those drawers. If the unit is too heavy, we will remove them drawers and replace them at the new location.

ELECTRONICS

If possible, pack electronics in their original cartons. As long as proper packing materials are used (bubble wrap, newsprint, foam sheeting, comforters/blankets, pillows, etc.), electronics can be safely packed in sturdy boxes.

Start by padding the bottom of the carton with a generous amount of packing material.
Wrap electronic with paper and place in carton.
Tightly pack padding around and on top of the unit to prevent damage.
Firmly seal the carton.
Label the carton as “Fragile – Top Load.”

Note: When you unpack your electronics, let them reach room temperature before plugging them in.

COMPUTERS

If possible, pack computers in their original cartons. As long as proper packing materials are used (bubble wrap, newsprint, foam sheeting, comforters/blankets, pillows, etc.), computers can be safely packed in sturdy boxes.

Start by padding the bottom of the carton with a generous amount of packing material.
Wrap computer parts generously with paper and place in carton. • Tightly pack padding around and on top of the unit to prevent damage.
Firmly seal the carton.
Label the carton as “Fragile – Top Load.”

Note: Be aware of special considerations for the internal workings of the computer. Discuss safe transportation with a computer professional.

BOOKS

Hardback books should be set on end, like you would place on a book shelf, when the carton is filled fill in any open space with wadded up paper or a bulky but light item like a pillow or blanket.

Paper back books should lay flat in the carton, alternating the spine and open side of the book.

Special sentimental or valuable books should have a piece of paper between them to prevent them sticking together. Then wrap them in more paper, foam or bubble wrap to further protect them from damage.

Because books are heavy, Use a small book carton to make them easier to carry.

BOTTLES

Bottles are taped shut and wrapped in clean newsprint. For extra security, place bottles in a resealable, watertight bag before wrapping and placing in carton.

MAJOR APPLIANCES

Clean and dry all appliances at least 24 hours before your move date. Consider using empty space in your appliances to move lightweight or crushable items. Remove broiler pan and racks from your oven. Tape burners or coil elements to the top of your stove and tape down all knobs. Disconnect and empty all washing machine hoses and store them inside the machine. Immobilize the tub with a brace or by placing towels between the tub and sidewall. Tape electrical cords to each appliance and tape all doors and lids closed.

LAWN & GARAGE ITEMS

Drain all gasoline and oil from lawn mowers, weed eaters, chain saws and other equipment. Strap long garden tools together into a bundle. Pack heavy power tools into small sturdy boxes and fill spaces with newspaper

WHEN MOVING LONG DISTANCES

Wax your wood furniture before the move to help protect and prevent scratches. Have your rugs and draperies cleaned; leave them wrapped when they come back from the cleaners. Do NOT have cloth furniture cleaned, it may retain moisture and mold or mildew during an extended move.