How to Pack for Your Next Move

1. Start by packing out-of-season items and things you use infrequently.
2. Empty dresser drawers of breakables, perishables and prohibited items.
3. Isolate and protect dangerous items like knives or skewers that might puncture or damage other items (or movers).
4. Keep all pairs and components together. Place small hardware items in plastic bags and tape them securely to the equipment.
5. Wind electrical cords, fastening them so they do not dangle.
6. Wrap fine china, crystal and delicate items individually in clean, unprinted paper; you can also use tissue paper, towels or facial tissue.
7. Place a two-or three-inch layer of crushed paper in the bottom of every carton for cushioning. As each layer is completed, fill in empty spaces firmly with crushed paper.
8. As you fill smaller boxes with delicate items, consolidate them into a single large box, filling in spaces with crushed paper.
9. Avoid overloading cartons but strive for a firm pack that will prevent items from shifting. The cover should close easily without force but should not bend inward.
10. Seal cartons tightly with tape except for those containing items listed on Mayflower’s High-Value Inventory Form. These must be left open for your Mayflower mover’s inspection.
11. As you finish with each carton, list the contents on the side of the carton; keep a master list somewhere safe. You might want to number and/or code the cartons as well. (It’s important to note that Mayflower will not accept a claim if an item isn’t listed on the Inventory Form, regardless if it has been listed on your box.)
12. On the label, assign each box to a room in your new home.
13. Tape signs on the door of each room at your destination so movers can get the cartons into your designated room.

Packing Tips for Beginners

Master the art of packing by following these general packing tips to improve efficiency:

1. Start by packing the things you aren’t using and won’t need until after you move. (Think camping equipment, sporting equipment and out-of-season items).
2. Work backwards from least to most needed so that your everyday necessities won’t need to be packed until right before moving day.
3. Your soft and lightweight goods in drawers need not be removed and packed in boxes; they can be moved as they are. Your movers will wrap dressers with plastic and/or blankets to keep drawers closed.
4. Any goods that are breakable or that may damage other items should be removed from your drawers prior to moving.