How to pack for your move - Packing hints and tips

As your removal day looms there is one question everyone asks: ‘What have I forgotten?!” The following handy hints have been put together by our removal staff to hopefully answer this question as well as any others you may have forgotten. It will help you and your removal company to have a smooth and trouble free day and it will also act as a final check list on the day before you move.

Plan, Plan, Plan

You cannot plan too much for your move.
Plan what you are taking; plan where you are taking it and which room it is going.
Keep essentials with you and out of the way so they don’t end up in the wrong box.
Ensure you meet and greet your removals team at the door and tell them your plan too!

It's all about protection...

Make sure everything is packed and secured.

Any fragile items should be marked as so, and make sure you pack each item separately in paper and bubble wrap.

Don't forget most removal companies can supply a full range of boxes and packing material for your move, including bubble wrap, parcel tape, export wrap etc. These can be delivered well in advance to allow you maximum time for packing.

Fill those boxes... Sensibly...

Remember fill your largest boxes with the lightest items and the smaller boxes with heavier items (such as books). This will ensure that your house contents can be moved easily and quickly.

Ensure that all boxes and securely taped and make sure there are no protruding items sticking out. Any fragile or upright items should be marked clearly on the outside of the box too.

Mark up

Don't forget to mark up your boxes in clear writing, usually 1 side and the top will be perfect. Once at your new home it may be worth marking up the doors of each room with a piece of paper (please don't use heavy duty tape and pull off the paint!), A little bit of blue-tac will usually be fine.

DIY

As standard removal companies will not dismantle or erect flat pack furniture unless previously agreed, so please ensure this is taken down before your removal team arrives.

Ensure you keep all smaller items (screws etc.) in a bag and attached it to the pieces to make sure you can put it all back up!

Don't forget we can dismantle and erect furniture with prior agreement; just ask our team well in advance of your move.

Lofts and Attics

Please be aware that removal staff are not legally allowed to enter loft space and all items should be removed from the loft, placed in a room and packed before the arrival of movers.

Electronic Goods

We advise placing all electronic goods in their original boxes before transportation. If this is not possible anti-static packing materials are recommended and available.

White goods

Removers are not allowed to connect / disconnect gas, water and electricity.

Please make sure your large white goods are ready to be transported before your move day.

All washing machines and dishwashers should be drained and we advise cleaning fridges and freezers before moving.

Carpets and Rugs

Please make sure any carpets and rugs you are taking are rolled and secured with tape before the removal company arrives.

My clothes!

Don't worry, all of your best garments will still be kept in pristine condition and with no creases! Most removal companies supply specially designed wardrobe boxes that will hang your clothes vertically while in transportation but best to check first.

All other clothes may be able to be left in the chest of drawers, depending on size and weight. Please check with your removal company first.

If you’re unsure, pack them into a suitcase or box.

Food and drink

Ensure that all bottles and containers are secure and packed well. Any liquids should be packed in tightly so they remain upright (you can even secure the tops with Sellotape). Mark the boxes with an arrow to ensure they are kept upright.

Any cold or frozen goods should be marked or moved separately so they are easy to find at your new home.

At no time should food or drink be placed into storage.

Fittings

Unless previously agreed, all curtains, lampshades and pictures should be removed and packed before the team arrives.

Pictures

Don't forget to pack and protect your pictures, generally roll bubble wrap round a couple of times, top to bottom and secure with tape.

However any paintings (especially oil or pastel) should be protected accordingly with the correct cloths to ensure that no damage or marks appear on the canvas.

Outside goods

Ensure that all rubbish is cleared out of sheds and garages for easy access to remaining items. Garden tools should be cleaned (a stiff brush is always useful) and taped together in small bundles.

Any flammable liquids should not be transported and will invalidate insurance.

Again the outsides and bottoms of plant pots should be cleaned, small pots should be placed in a suitable tray or box.

Access

Don't forget to tell your neighbours when you are moving, not only is it courteous but you can also ask them to clear areas that could be used by removal vehicles to arrange easier access. The closer they can get to your home, then the quicker you will be moved in.

If this all sounds to much, then let the professionals take over.

Download a PDF copy of How to Pack for your Home - Packing Hints and Tips.

How to choose a reliable removal company.

Hints and Tips to bear in mind when putting your possessions into storage.

How to pack plants and house plants when moving house.

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