So...you’re moving! First step, take a deep breath. Some of your most valuable belongings will be packed away into boxes, and depending on how far you are moving, will be loaded into a truck and delivered to your new address. How can you make sure they arrive safely? By making a plan and following some simple steps. Brandon Moving & Storage has a few special steps to keep in mind when you’re packing your kitchen:
1. PAPER. The more paper you use for packing, the better. If you know ahead of time, you can start by saving old newspapers, magazines, scrap paper, etc. We recommend that you make sure each piece of dishware is fully wrapped at least once. As you’re packing your boxes, make sure you’re shoving paper into every possible nook and cranny. You want to make sure there’s no space for wiggling.
2. WEIGHT. Speaking of packing boxes, consider the weight and surface area of every item you’re packing - that will determine where in the box it needs to go. Pack your plates vertically instead of stacking them on top of each other. Packing this way distributes weight more evenly especially on the vulnerable, thinner china in the center on the plate (especially for those at the bottom of a heavy stack), which means they're less likely to break during the move. Larger plates can be wrapped and placed at the bottom of every dish box on their side. This saves space and it allows a sturdy base for whatever you pack on top of them - like cups and bowls. Between every layer, you should add a couple of layers of paper so there’s no chance of rubbing and chipping glassware. Small kitchen appliances can sometimes be packed in dish-boxes with extra space at the top to make sure nothing moves during travel. (Make sure to stuff extra paper in the nooks and crannies!)
3. POTS & PANS. Because these items are generally durable in nature and often large, consider purchasing a carton or a plastic box with a lid that will allow you to fill it up. To protect special pieces, you can use dish towels. (These plastic cartons can be put to use in your new home - like in the garage or toy storage!)
4. LABELING. By making sure that your dish boxes are properly labeled, you can rest assured that the movers are aware of which boxes should be treated as fragile.
Follow these tips, pack up everything, except the kitchen sink, and be on your way to your new home. If you'd rather have a professional handle the packing, Brandon Moving & Storage offers Packing Services. Our packing solutions range from turnkey service to do-it-yourself supplies. Contact Brandon Moving & Storage to learn more! Happy moving!
