hese instructions are designed to save you worry and to make your move as trouble-free as possible.

How to pack boxes:

• Tape the bottom of every box. Tape the top closed tightly when full. Run two strips of tape along the side and one strip down the center.
• Use small boxes for heavier items, larger boxes for lightweight, bulky items.
• Wrap small and/or fragile items individually.
• Stuff top, bottom and sides of boxes with paper. This helps prevent shifting, rubbing and possible breakage.
• Label the contents of every box and the room where it belongs.

How to pack boxes: Don’t pack these items:

• Money, securities, valuable papers or jewelry. Keep them with you.
• Flammable items such as aerosol cans, paints, gasoline, etc.
• Perishable items such as frozen foods, produce, plants, etc.
• Soaps, polishes or medicines with foods.
• Kitchenware or other heavy items in boxes with dishware.

How to pack boxes: Dishware and Glasses

• Use double corrugated boxes.
• Cushion the bottom with rolled up paper.
• Wrap each piece individually.
• Cushion the top and sides with paper to prevent shifting.

How to pack boxes: Clothing

• Put hanging clothes in wardrobe boxes.
• Place shoes in medium size boxes.
• Use paper to protect and keep pairs separated.
• Place other clothes in medium size/linen size boxes.

How to pack boxes: Pictures

• Use a picture box.
• Place picture in box, then stuff front, back and along top with paper.
• Packing of pictutes is always required for long distance moves or moves into storage.
• On a local move there is no need to pack your pictures. The movers will deal with them on the day of the move.

How to pack boxes: Lamps

• Remove lightbulbs
• Put lampshade in separate box.
• Mark “Fragile”

How to pack boxes: Electronics

• If possible, pack in original cartons.
• if not, pack each item in ample amounts of bubble wrap or white paper.
• Code wiring with tape for easy installation.
• Stereo: fasten down the tone arm and dust cover.
• Compact Disk: check instructions to secure the laser.
• Personal Computer: back up all important diskettes, “park” the hard disk (program often included on diagnostic diskette). For floppy disk drive, insert an old or blank disk.

How to pack boxes: Moving Day: Moving Out

• Arrange to be on hand for last minute details and to give directions to movers.
• Leave the whole day for your move.
• Have payment for movers on hand.
• Before leaving, check each room and closet.
• When you leave, turn off lights, close windows and lock doors.

How to pack boxes: Moving Day: Moving In

• Supervise placement of boxes and furniture.
• Check for damages. Inspect large items. Look for boxes that are crushed or open.
• Inform the moving foreman and review the claims procedure with him.
• Go back to the truck. Make sure nothing was left behind. Check all the compartments.