Make your move more effective and safe

While moving, sometimes a little information can save a lot of time and effort. Below are some of the simple but handy tips for making your move more effective and safe:
1. Taping the bottom of cartons before filling them prevents the contents from spilling out the bottom during the move.
2. Boxes, marking pen, bubble wrap, newspaper,tape, scissors and tissue should be kept handy
3. All breakable items should be wrapped individually in paper. Paper should be used to cushion the bottom, sides and top of cartons.
4. Use strong boxes and containers that can be secured tightly. Purchase special boxes for dishes, wardrobe and other special items.
5. Pack audio-video equipment in their original boxes.
6. Label cables and tighten transit screws. If removing screws, tape them to the objects they are removed from.
7. Avoid loading more than 50 pounds into one box.
8. Label each box and indicate the following: (a) Which room it should go in (b) Whether it is fragile (c) If it should be loaded last so it will be unloaded first.
9. Cushion contents with packing material such as bubble wrap, newspaper or tissue. Save room by using towels and blankets to wrap fragile items.
10. Pack books tightly on end in small boxes. If musty smelling, sprinkle talcum powder between the pages and wrap the book before packing.

11. Have rugs and draperies cleaned before moving and leave them in wrappings for the move.
12. Pack medicines in a leak proof container.
13. Carry all valuables with you.
14. Check with your local department of Agriculture for regulations regarding moving plants from one state to another.

15. Many states have restrictions on certain plants to prevent importing bugs or pests that can destroy valuable cash crops.
16. In each carton the heavier items should be placed at the bottom and the lighter items on top to prevent damage.
17. If you include items of extraordinary value in your shipment, a High Value Inventory sheet must be completed and signed by you prior to your move.
18. Dispose of perishables such as food and plants that may die or spoil in transit.
19. You should empty your refrigerator and freezers for at least 24 hours before loading.