Prepare Moving Cartons
This list will help you ensure your move is as trouble-free as possible. You can print this list by using the FILE and then PRINT buttons right from your browser.
- Use heavy-duty packing tape to secure the bottom of each carton.
- Never just fold the bottoms of cartons; from experience it is not a good feeling lifting a carton just to find its contents have emptied over your feet. (Trust me on this one.)
- Small flaps should be folded in on the bottom inside, with the larger flaps folded in on the bottom outside.
- Run the packing tape centre vertical of the upright carton, approximately five inches from the bottom.
- From this point keep running the tape along the joining seam of the two folded larger bottom flaps, then up approx 5 inches vertically of the upright carton on the opposite starting side.
- Once your carton has been set up, cover the base of the inside of the carton with butchers paper scrunched up.( This will create a cushioning effect.)
- An alternative is to use linen as a bottom layer.· This will protect your valuables much the same way as a shock absorber operates in a motor vehicle.
- Plan the items to be packed (i.e.. you wouldn’t pack detergents with food items)
- Once this is complete, you can then start packing your valuables.
- Select the right carton for the right job.
- For heavy items like books, wine, and tinned food use small cartons such as book cartons.
- Tip carton upside down to gain ready access to flaps on bottom of the carton. Fold opposite flaps of cartons. DO NOT interlock flaps.
- Tape bottom of carton securely. We recommend two thickness of packing tape.
- Line bottom of carton with padding - scrunched up paper, towels and linen may be used.
- Wrap all china and glassware pieces separately - then stack in carton on their ends or edges.
- After each layer of china or glassware place another layer of padding - ensure there is also sufficient padding on the sides of the carton and finally on the top.
- A good rule of thumb, every one carton should have two-thirds china, one third padding.
- For ease of carriage, pack a mixture of light and heavy items in large cartons. Pack cartons right to the top or fill right to the top with padding, BUT don't overfill.
- Fold the top flaps of the carton in the same manner as the bottom flaps and tape up securely.
- Label each carton with name, room and brief description of the goods, to enable easy placement of the carton at delivery