Packing Tips

Our relocation consultants would be happy to arrange a FULL or PARTIAL packing service tailored specifically to meet your needs. If, however, you elect to do all or some of the packing yourself Big Foot Moving & Storage, Inc. has developed the following packing information to help your move go smoothly.

Although packing is primarily the application of common sense, you can realize great savings in the cost of packing and save yourself time and effort by planning and organizing in advance. Here are some general packing guidelines to follow:

• Careful packing will prevent damage and speed up the moving process, thus saving you money.
• Sort out the items you have been meaning to get rid of and dispose of them!
• Separate any items of a hazardous nature such as cleaning solvents, paint, aerosol cans and ammunition. These items can NOT be moved in the truck, nor can they be stored. You may want to dispose of them or move them in your personal vehicle.
• Be sure to use plenty of “filling” material (packing paper) to avoid items moving inside the box.
• Begin packing well in advance. Start with items least used in your household.
• Pack one room at a time, labeling each box with the general contents and the destination room in the new home.
• Boxes containing fragile or high value items should be clearly marked for your mover.
• Follow the guideline below as to what cartons to use for your belongings, and remember, the heavier the contents, the smaller the box.
• Ensure the bottoms of the boxes are well taped to hold the contents.
• When packing individual boxes, place the heavier items on the bottom, graduating to the lightest items on top.

Using the proper materials and moving boxes will save you time, money, and effort. The following is a list and description of the materials needed to protect your possessions when packing.

Book Box (Small 1.5 cubic feet)
A small, easy to handle carton designed for heavy items such as books and records. Care must be taken so that the box does not become too heavy for handling. Extremely old or valuable books should be individually wrapped.

Linen Box (medium – 3.1 cubic feet)
This utility box has a wide range of uses for smaller items throughout the home. It is ideal for small appliances, tools, nonperishable food or clothing.

Large Box (4.5 cubic feet)
Useful for lighter weight, bulky items such as linens, pillows, and large toys.

China/Dish Pack (5.2 cubic feet)
An especially sturdy carton for fragile items including china, glassware, figurines, and sculptures. This carton is often reinforced with cellular inserts to further protect such things as crystal stemware. All pieces of china and glassware should be individually wrapped in unprinted paper and properly secured with additional paper padding. Dishes should be positioned on end to lessen the chance for breakage. Each carton should be labeled “Fragile – This End Up.”

Wardrobe Box (10.1 cubic feet)
Portable closet. Clothes remain on hangers to stay clean and minimize wrinkles.

Mirror/Picture Boxes
Telescoping cartons fit each mirror, picture, or glass table top exactly.

White Packing Paper (25 lb. bundle) 
Only clean, unprinted paper should be used for wrapping and padding.

Mattress Bags (various sizes)
These plastic bags come in every size for every mattress and box spring type.

Packing properly will eliminate damage during handling and shipment. Packing can, however, take considerable time. Start early, use the proper materials, and don’t hesitate to call us with any questions you may have on properly packing your items for shipment.