Packing Tips

After purchasing the home of your dreams, start thinking about the actual moving process! Check out the packing and moving tips below.

General Guidelines

  • Pack items in order of how often you use them; items used least often should be packed first.
  • Pack items based on where you plan on putting them in your new home.
  • Pack heavier items in smaller boxes to make them easier to carry.
  • Put heavy items on the bottom of boxes.

What Not to Pack

If you have hired a mover, they will likely have a list of dangerous or hazardous items they won’t transport. Some of these items include:

  • Paints and Paint Thinner
  • Batteries
  • Aerosol Cans, Bleach, and Cleaning Supplies
  • Pressurized Tanks
  • Loaded Firearms and Ammunition
  • Gasoline or Kerosene or Other Flammable Chemicals
  • Perishable Foods in Glass Jars

Items that have great value should stay with you, including:

  • Cash
  • Legal Documents
  • Passports
  • Stock/Bond Certificates
  • Jewelry
  • Any Contents of your Safety Deposit Box
  • Irreplaceable Family Mementos

Packing Materials to Purchase

Collect all the necessary packing materials ahead of time to make the process as seamless as possible. The following are the packing materials you will need:

  • Cartons
  • Packing Paper
  • Bubble Wrap or Tissue Paper
  • Packing Tape
  • Markers
  • Scissors

How to Pack Specific Items

We recommend taking special care with packing the following items, and labeling them as "fragile":

  • Computers: Backup all your files, wrap all cords individually, and use plenty of padding when packing.
  • Glassware & Dishware: Wrap each piece inside and out, especially if you plan on stacking them. Tape the paper together to keep it stable, and make sure the box is also padded for extra protection.
  • Lampshades: Pack each lampshade in its own box with plenty of padding. If you have more than one of the same lampshades and they can be stacked, you may do so.
  • Pictures/Paintings: Wrap and bubble wrap pictures and paintings.