How-to Pack Guide
The boxes, materials, and methods that protect your things and make unpacking simple.
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In short
Good packing is the difference between unpacking calmly and finding a box of shattered glasses. It is not complicated, but it does follow a few rules that professional movers learn the hard way: the right box for the right weight, fragile items wrapped individually, and a label on every box.
callCall (941) 809-5777This guide walks through the materials worth buying, how to pack each type of item, and the labeling system that gets every box to the right room.
Get the right boxes
Use small boxes for heavy items like books and dishes, and large boxes for light bulky things like pillows and linens. A large box full of books is too heavy to carry safely and likely to tear. Specialty boxes exist for dishes, wardrobes, and TVs, and they are worth it.
Pack heavy on the bottom
In every box, heavier items go on the bottom and lighter on top. Fill gaps with paper or soft goods so nothing shifts. A box should be full and firm, not rattling and not bulging.
Wrap fragile items individually
Wrap each glass, plate, and breakable on its own in packing paper, then nest them with padding between layers. Plates travel on their edges, not stacked flat. Mark these boxes fragile on the top and sides.
Protect electronics
Photograph the cabling on the back of your TV and computer before unplugging so reconnecting is fast. Use original boxes if you kept them, or a padded TV box. Bag and label cords with the device they belong to.
Label everything
Write the destination room and a one-line list of contents on the top and at least one side of every box. Color-coding by room with tape or markers makes the unload even faster, because the crew can read a color from across the truck.
What not to pack
Do not box flammables, aerosols, paint, or propane. Keep medications, documents, jewelry, and a first-night kit with you. Drain fuel from mowers and trimmers before they go on the truck.
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Frequently asked questions
How many boxes will I need?expand_more
It varies widely by home size and how much you own. A rough rule is more than you expect. We can recommend quantities based on your home size, or supply them so you do not run short mid-pack.
Can I leave clothes in the dresser?expand_more
Light clothing can usually stay. Empty anything heavy, breakable, or liquid, and remove valuables. Wardrobe boxes keep hanging clothes on their hangers and wrinkle-free.
When should I start packing?expand_more
Start four weeks out with rarely-used rooms and work toward the daily-use spaces. Leave a small set of essentials for the last day.
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