Make
sure you have the right box
for the right job. For example,
smaller boxes are better for
heavier items such as wine,
tinned goods. Because of the
smaller size, this will stop
the temptation to over pack
and end up with an extremely
heavy box to carry.
When taping up the box, start with the box upside down to give you easier access to the bottom flaps. Fold the opposite flaps of the box, DO NOT interlock the flaps.
When taping the bottom, use at least two strips of packing tape or gaffer/duct tape. You don't want to be carrying it out to the van and suddenly hear the fine china hitting the pavement.
Line the bottom of the box with scrunched up newspaper or towels and linen, this will act as a shock absorber and prevent damage to your goods.
Wrap all your china
and glassware pieces separately,
using tissue for the first layer
of wrapping and newspaper on
top (newsprint can leave marks
and smudges) and stack them
in boxes on their ends. Ensure
that china and glassware items
are totally wrapped.
After laying down one
layer of china or glassware,
place another layer of padding
on top before putting in the
next layer. Also ensure to pad
the sides and the top of the
box. Use Tupperware and the
like to fill the top of the
box, they act as padding and
are lightweight and will not
damage your breakables.
Fill any gaps in the box with tissue paper or newspaper to ensure your items are secure and reduce the movement within the box.
As a general rule to go by is to have a box filled with two thirds china or glassware and one third padding.
Ensure a mixture of light and heavy items are packed in larger boxes and be sure to fill to the top of the box with items or padding, but resist the urge to overfill.
Unless your movers have competed in the Worlds Strongest Man competition, remember that the weight of the box should not exceed the average adult strength (around 23kg.).
Fold the flaps at the top of the box the same way as you folded the bottom flaps.
To make sure
the movers know where to put
the boxes, mark them clearly
with what room they have come
from, what's inside and a brief
description.
Lastly, stack the boxes as close to the front door as possible without blocking access, this will allow them to be removed quickly with the least amount of fuss.
Now all that is done, treat yourself to a cup of tea and put your feet up. |
