Packing guide
Clothes
To avoid hours of unnecessary washing and ironing
we recommend you invest in a few wardrobe cartons with hanging bars. These
temporary wardrobes provide an inexpensive way of keeping clothes straight
during transit and are great once you've moved in as you'll still be able to find
your clothes while you're sorting out everything else.
Books
These are one of the heaviest items you will have to pack, so use small boxes to keep the overall weight down. Books are best packed flat, alternating the bindings so that they stack evenly. Protect the covers of any treasured books by wrapping them in tissue paper or wrapping paper (not newspaper as the ink may leave smudges).
Breakable items
Make sure all items are well wrapped in bubble wrap, tissue or wrapping paper, then use newspaper to cushion wrapped items to avoid ink smudges. Pack loosely into boxes which are clearly labelled as fragile. Do not make the mistake of cushioning and padding the sides of the boxes well and forgetting the top and bottom, a firm up-and-down jolt could do a lot of damage.
Furniture
Disassemble large items like tables as much as possible so space in the removal van can be used as efficiently as possible. Remember to place all screws, nuts and blots in a sealable plastic bag and fasten to the underside of the item so that they don't get lost.
Pad furniture out with blankets or old linens; make
sure the padding is secure but avoid using tape directly on wood or painted
surfaces as it may damage the finish.
Drawers should be filled with light, wrapped items or clothes; secure the drawers from opening when moving, but again, avoid using tape.
Electrical appliances
Always check the manufacturer's manual for any special moving guidelines. When possible, pack the appliance in its original packaging with any necessary protection e.g. bubble wrap.
Secure any movable parts or opening doors and disconnect any detachable wires or batteries etc. Tape electrical cords to the back of the appliance and protect the plug with bubble wrap.
Dishes and glassware
Individually wrap each piece and pack them in sturdy boxes using plenty of cushioning, tea towels are ideal. Plates should be packed edge down as opposed to flat.
Cutlery
As sharp knives can easily cut through cardboard and injure the person carrying the box, wrap bundles of cutlery and clearly label so when it comes to unpacking, the individual knows to proceed with caution. These can then be placed inside a bread bin or biscuit tin etc to keep them secure.
Carpets and rugs
Carpets and rugs should be rolled up and secured with tape or rope.
Mirrors
Carefully wrap, making sure to pay particular attention to padding the corners. Small mirrors can be packed on their sides within sturdy boxes, for larger wall mirrors which will not fit within a box it is a good idea to cover them with cardboard instead.