Packing Tips

Many people prefer to have their belongings packed professionally to avoid risk of damage. Your Willie's Transfer & Storage representative will be happy to discuss costs, materials, packing and unpacking services. Willie's Transfer & Storage professional packers can usually pack an average sized home in 1-2 days.

Self-Pack
If you decide to do the packing yourself, you automatically assume a major portion of the responsibility for the success of the move, including that of having everything properly packed and ready for loading when the moving van arrives. All packing must be completed the evening before moving day and only the things you will need that night and the next morning should be left for last minute packing. Allow yourself several weeks to complete the packing.

In addition, your packing will be expected to meet specific standards. This means complying with the principles of good packing as outlined here, as well as following the suggestions relative to items that should not be included in the shipment. Your move crew will inspect each box to make sure that items are properly packed prior to loading. If it is determined that your cartons are susceptible to damage, the driver may refuse to load those boxes until they are re-packed or removed from the shipment. There is, of course, a charge for packing services performed by Willie's Transfer & Storage.

Industry Standards Packing Means:

• Wrapping items carefully
• Using sturdy cartons that close completely
• Making sure of a firm pack that will not rattle, bulge outward or bend inward
• Providing plenty of cushioning to absorb shock
• Limiting cartons, when possible, to a maximum weight of fifty pounds to make handling easier

Prepare a convenient place to work and gather all packing materials in one location. If there is a spare room available, consider setting it up as your packing headquarters.

A large table covered with a heavy blanket, or mattress pad makes a good, firm work surface. It may be helpful to have a second table nearby for soon to be packed items.

You will need packing cartons, newsprint (unprinted newspaper for wrapping), bubble wrap, tissue paper, packing tape, a felt marker, and scissors. Never use newspaper. The ink rubs off, and can become embedded in your dishware.

Have a pencil and notebook handy, and make a list of the boxes as you pack them.

Why Professional Grade Cartons?
The boxes you use to pack your household goods are important in more ways than one. Make sure the cartons you use are suitable for transporting your goods in order to minimize damage. Also ensure that you are not packing boxes too heavy as they can break open or too light as they can crush as they are stacked in the moving van. Use only durable cartons constructed for the packing of items. (Your sales representative can assist you in locating and purchasing the appropriate cartons, or call our office and speak to one of our move coordinators.)

Some general professional grade cartons available through Willie's Transfer & Storage are:

1.5 cubic foot cartons (the book or small carton)
This is the smallest of the general-purpose containers. As a rule of thumb, the smallest and heaviest items are generally packed in the 1.5 carton. Such items include:

• Books, records, VCR tapes, CD's
• Canned goods
• Heavy tools

3.0 cubic foot carton (medium carton)
This is the workhorse carton. Smaller and heavier items are usually packed in these containers. Such items include:

• Small kitchen appliances
• Lamp bases
• Small outdoors tools
• Pots and pans
• Electronic gadgets

4.5 cubic foot carton
As the size of the container increases, the weight of the individual items going into the container should decrease. This carton is another of the workhorse cartons. Such items include:

• Non hanging clothes
• Larger lamp bases
• Lamp shades
• Linens
• Non breakable kitchen goods (Tupperware, baking sheets, etc.)
• Children's toys

6.0 cubic foot carton (Large carton)
This is the largest of the general purpose cartons. This carton should only be considered for the lightest and bulkiest items such as:

• Stuffed toys
• Blankets, pillows
• Area rugs
• Winter coats

Dish Pack (Barrel or Dish Barrel)
This is the safest of all of the cartons because of its extra-strength, multi-layer construction. All breakable kitchenware, china and crystal should be packed in these cartons for safety. Occasionally, lamp bases, small antiques and brick-a-brac are also packed into the disk packs.

Mattress Carton or Mattress Bags
Just as mattresses and box springs come in different sizes, so do the cartons for shipping them in. Standard sizes are crib, twin, double, queen and king. Other than the beds in a residence - be aware that some waterbeds, futons and sleep sofas may require cartons for shipping. For king size beds, double check that the box springs are either king size or two singles. Mattress bags, which are available in the above mentioned sizes, are a cost effective alternative to cartons. Of course, waterbeds must be drained of all water.

Mirror Carton
As with mattress cartons, mirror cartons also come in a number of sizes. Many mirror cartons pieces can be fitted together to offer a great deal of flexibility for such items as: pictures, mirrors or small glass table tops.

Wardrobe Cartons
These are the largest of the standard cartons and will either be stand-up or lay-down (usually used for international). These cartons are constructed in such a manner that hanging clothes will remain hanging during the move. You may want to consider the wardrobe for shipping drapes and curtains (neatly folded on hangers) to help reduce wrinkling during shipment.

Other
There are specialized cartons for very specific needs, such as golf club cartons, bicycle cartons, grandfather clock boxes and crates. The ultimate specialty carton is a crate which is for extremely fragile pieces, such as marble and glass. These crates are built to order and need to be ordered prior to your move. Ask your representative for details.

A Checklist of the Basics

• Pack similar items together. Dont pack a delicate china figurine with a cast iron skillet.
• Start with out-of-season items, and things you use infrequently.
• Keep all parts or pairs together and use reasonable plastic bags for hardware, taping the bag securely to the item.
• Empty drawers of breakables, things that might spill or anything that would damage other items.
• Leave lightweight and unbreakable items in drawers.
• Wrap items individually in clean tissue paper or newsprint.
• Small items are easily identified when wrapped in colored paper.
• Very fragile items should be double wrapped and then wrapped in bubble wrap.
• Label boxes with fragile items "FRAGILE, This Side Up".
• Wind electric cords, fastening them so they will not dangle.
• Put a two or three inch layer of crushed paper in the bottom of the carton to serve as a cushion.
• Build up in layers, with the heaviest things on the bottom, medium weight next, and lightest weight on the top.
• As each layer is completed, fill in empty spaces with crushed paper, adding layers of crushed paper between items.
• Avoid overloading the carton, but make sure that nothing "shifts".
• The carton cover should close easily with no bulges, and no inward bends.
• Blankets, towels and other soft items may be used for cushioning.
• Seal cartons tightly with packing tape.
• Mark each carton with your name and the room to which the carton should be delivered.
• Write "Unpack First" on items that you need at the destination.
• When you arrive at your new home, tape a sign on the door of each room corresponding to your carton labeling.

Professional Packing Tips

China and Glassware
Professional packers use a dish pack carton for china and glassware. Place plenty of cushioning material in the bottom of the carton. Then wrap each piece individually using several sheets of paper. Start from the corner, wrapping diagonally, continuously tucking in overlapping edges. After wrapping each piece individually, then wrap four to six in a bundle with a double layer of newspaper. Place these bundled items in the carton in a row, standing them on edge.

The larger the china and glass plates, platters, and other flat pieces are excellent as the lower layer in the box. Smaller plates, saucers, and shallow bowls could make up a second layer. Wrap and pack in the same way as larger items, making sure to rest them in the box upright, using sufficient cushioning. 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 bundles to protect rims and make a level base for the next tier. Always remember, the heavier pieces go on the bottom!

Stand shallow bowls on edge in the carton and deep ones (such as mixing bowls) next to each other, two or three in a row, upside down on their rim tops.

Wrap sugar bowl lids in tissue, turning them upside down on the bowl before wrapping them together. Place sugar bowls, pitchers and similar pieces upright in the carton, being careful to cushion firmly. Complete the next layer with plates, wrapping them individually, standing them on their edges.

Cups and glassware should be wrapped in a double layer of paper and placed upside down on the rims in a row on an upper layer within the box with all the handles facing upward in the same direction.

Silverware
Loose flatware may be wrapped either individually or in sets, in clear plastic or tissue. If the silverware is in a chest, you still may want to wrap the pieces individually and replace in the chest, or fill in all empty spaces in the chest with tissue paper or paper toweling.

Silver-plate or Sterling Silver
Since air causes silver to tarnish, all silver pieces should be completely enclosed in fresh, clean tissue paper or plastic wrap. Hollowware, including bowls, tea sets and serving dishes, should be carefully wrapped as fragile items and packed the same as china.

Books
Because books are heavy, be sure to use small cartons. Pack on edge, alternating bound edge to open edge. Pack books of the same general size together.

Lamps
After removing the light bulb, wrap the base, harp and bulb separately, in newsprint, (never use newspaper) and place together in a carton, filling spaces with crushed paper. Carefully wrap each shade in three or four sheets of fresh tissue paper, a pillowcase or larger lightweight towel. More than one lamp or shade can be packed in a carton if properly protected. Large, Tiffany-style lamp shades and chandeliers should be professionally crated by Willie's Transfer & Storage.

Glass Table Tops, Marble Slabs, Mirrors, Paintings, etc.
Leave it to the professionals. It is best to consult with your move coordinator about obtaining custom made cartons or crates for these types of items. Glass may shatter; marble slabs can crack at veins. Paper should never be permitted to touch the surface of an oil painting.

As a rule, based on thickness of the frame, two pictures/mirrors can be packed in a picture/mirror box. Multiple, smaller pictures/mirrors can be wrapped in a single paper pad, bubble wrap or bubble kraft. Each picture/mirror must be insulated from one another. Never put unprotected items into any moving box. When packing pictures/mirrors, keep the glass face-to-face with the backs against the outside of the boxes. A piece of cardboard can be placed between the glasses for added protection. Use a box size that fits the pictures/mirrors.

After setting up the "picture/mirror" box, begin once again with crumpled newsprint paper or bumpers on the bottom of the box to act as a cushion. After the item is placed in the packing box, add additional newsprint paper along the sides and top to prevent any shifting. A properly packed box will have no movement inside. Label the packing box with its contents and room destination.

Clothing
Footwear may be left in shoe boxes and placed into large cartons, or you may wrap each shoe individually, then in pairs. Footwear should be cushioned to avoid damage occurring to high heals or ornaments. Do not pack heavy items on top of shoes.

Clothing may be left on hangers and transported in Willie's Transfer & Storage's wardrobe cartons, which can be purchased from Willie's Transfer & Storage. If wardrobes are not used, each garment should be removed from the hanger, folded and placed in a suitcase or a carton lined with clean paper. Some lightweight clothing such as hose, lingerie and sweaters may be left in dresser drawers.

It is recommended that you take any furs or high-value items with you rather than packing them for transportation on the moving van.

Linen and Bedding
Because they are lightweight, these items can be used for padding delicate items or folded and packed into larger cartons. Line the box with clean paper and place the linens in a large plastic bag for protection. Place in cartons and label appropriately.

Special mattress cartons or mattress bags in various sizes are available from your Willie's Transfer & Storage representative. Pillows may be placed in dresser drawers or packed in cartons.

Draperies, Curtains and Rugs
Draperies and curtains may also be folded and packed in larger cartons, lined with clean paper. Another alternative is to place on hangers and pack curtains and drapes in a wardrobe carton. Leave rugs on the floor for the moving company to handle. If they have just returned from the cleaners, leave them rolled. Carpets will be rolled and secured prior to placing them on the moving van.

Photographs and Valuables
If possible, carry all valuables and photos with you to your destination. If you must pack photographs, wrap framed photos with padding and cushioning, like your dishes; stand them on edge in the box.

Photographs are best protected in photo albums, which should be wrapped and packed in separate cartons. Loose photos should be wrapped and packed in separate cartons and protected from moisture or possible water damage. Take time to properly pack your irreplaceable items.

Televisions
Unplug all television sets 24 hours in advance of a move, if possible, so that they will be at room temperature on moving day. Moving a TV in which heat is still retained could cause internal damage.

Small Appliances
Small clocks, radios and similar items can be packed in the same carton, or in with the linens. These items should be wrapped individually, using several pieces of paper, and should be placed in the packed carton with plenty of crushed paper.

Larger Appliances
Pre-move preparation is required for many major appliances. All appliances must be disconnected and dry before loading. Be sure to discuss with your Willie's Transfer & Storage representative.

Antiques
Obtain a written appraisal of antique items to verify the value. Avoid waxing or oiling wooden antiques (and fine wood furniture) before moving, because some products may soften the wood, making it vulnerable to imprinting from furniture pads.

Tools
Hand tools may be left in tool boxes, the spaces filled with crushed paper, or the tools may be packed according to general packing rules. Always use small cartons because the tools are generally heavy.

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.

Food
Take only those things you are sure will travel well. Do not take anything perishable. In the winter months, do not take anything that may freeze and burst. For long distance relocations, we recommend giving away canned and perishable foods and replenishing your supply upon arrival at your new home.

If you decide to take any pantry items, remember to seal the open boxes of dried or powdered foods such as rice, macaroni and cereal with tape. Small containers of herbs and spices, condiments, gelatin, flavorings, etc. should be placed together in a small box before packing into a larger container. Cover holes of shaker type containers and seal with tape.

Since canned goods are heavy, the amount placed in one carton should be limited. It is good practice to place these canned items on the bottom of a box containing several other light items.

Moving Day Carton
If you are traveling by car to your new destination, be sure to pack a "Moving Day Box". Place your last minute items in the box, along with things you'll need right away at your new destination. Keep a folder with all of your moving paperwork with you at all times.

You may want to take along:

• Prescriptions (have extra on hand)
• Papers and keys for new home
• Clothing (take enough to get you through a week of wear)
• First aid kit
• Important phone numbers and documents
• Maps
• Flashlights and batteries
• Toiletries
• Moving and travel papers and receipts
• Favorite toys/games for children
• Hardware from disassembled items
• Tool kit

Non-Transportable Items (DO NOT PACK)

Combustible Liquids	Corrosive Liquids
Rubbing alcohol Antifreeze compounds Cleaning Liquids	Acids Bleach Auto Batteries (not in vehicle)
Explosives	Flammables
Black powder, primers Fireworks Ammunition Dynamite or any other type of explosive	Adhesives (glue, cement) Aerosol cans Cleaning fluids Gasoline/Diesel fuel Hand signal flares Weed killer Kerosene Lighter fluids Matches Paint removers or thinners Stain, lacquer, varnish
Food Items	Houseplants
Perishable foods	Living plants of any kind
Gases, Compressed	Valuables
Engine starting fluids Gases used in welding Scuba diving tanks (un-purged) Propane tanks (un-purged)	Stocks Currency Jewelry Stamp, coin or other collections Medications

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