organizing your next move

Whether you're planning a big move and need to ship breakable things to your new home, or you just want to mail something fragile to someone, the key to getting it to its destination safely is a top notch packing job. Even if packing isn't your forte, it's easy to get the job done by following a few easy tips. Read on to learn how you can get that huge glass vase or breakable coffee mug to its new home safely.

The Box

If you're able to, it's best to double box your items before sending them on their way. A box inside of another one gives an added layer of protection, and serves as a buffer for all of the bouncing around it will do while traveling along by truck. Make sure the boxes you use are heavy duty and made of thick, corrugated cardboard. Thin, flimsy boxes won't hold up well and are almost guaranteed to tear before they make it to their destination.

The Cushion

The first rule of safe packing is to always use good packing materials to protect the item. Use foam packing peanuts, bubble wrap, or air-filled plastic bags to help keep things protected. If you wrap something in bubble wrap, be sure to do it tightly and use several layers, Take some heavy duty tape to seal the ends of the bubble wrap together. If you put something in a box with foam peanuts, put some in the bottom of the box first and then fill the rest up over top of the item so the whole box is full.

Sealing Your Box

Once you've gotten your items tightly secured, the box should be sealed up well. Use heavy duty packing tape to keep the box closed and secure. Never use lightweight scotch tape, duct tape, or masking tape to seal your box. Make sure all of the seams of your box are taped up well, and tape them across the seams perpendicularly to help add more security to them. Just ensure that there is no possible way the box will end up opening in shipment.

Labeling

When you're ready to drop your package off to the local shipping company or post office, be sure the shipping label is clearly written out with the ship-to address easy to read. Always include your return address and indicate the level of service you're shipping (rushed, ground, overnight). It can't hurt to write the word "fragile" on all sides of the box as well. Secure the label to your box with clear tape and if you want an extra level of security, purchase insurance. With these helpful tips, you're sure to become a packing pro in no time. 

However, if you're scrambling to pack for a big move and are overwhelmed by the process, consider contacting a local moving and packing company. Find out here what kind of services are available in your area.