Packing tips

 Let us face it. Not many of us have ever packed household goods. Not when we are relocating for the first time. We have always admired from a distance the neat and tight way professional packers do their job. But did you know that packing like a pro is not that difficult, if only are well prepared, know some basics and can devote some time and patience to the job, you could do it too. Here are some packing tips which tackle the basics and can help you get organized and started:

-         The most frequent question which bothers any starter is what size of boxes would be required and for which items. Small but heavy items like books, CDs, canned food should be packed in smaller boxes. Larger but not so heavy items like kitchen goods, linens etc can go in larger boxes. Pillows, blankets, lampshades should be packed in largest of the boxes. Remember it is always good to pack your things tightly and tape all the boxes. Tightness of packing prevents goods being toss around with the box.

-         The best way to pack books is to pack them in small boxes and stack them one on top of another instead of making them stand on the spine. Make sure the box is completely full to protect your books and the box from crumpling down.

-         To pack clothes you will need wardrobe packing. Remember an average wardrobe packing can carry about two feet of hanging clothes of your cupboard. Clothes which are folded can be carried in larger boxes.

-         For delicate and fragile china or crystal ware, you could get a dish box. Line the walls of this box with paper shreds or crushed paper which will offer protection to your goods. Then while stacking the plates put a layer of tissue in between the plates. While packing cups or mugs with rings, it is recommended that you insert a rolled out paper within the ring. This will prevent the ring from breaking during journey. All crockery and cutlery must be wrapped preferably with bubble wrap to prevent damage.

-         You might be tempted to use news paper instead of wrapping paper while packing. While news paper is useful as fillers, etc, it is also to be noted that the printing ink from newspapers may damage clothes and even furniture.

-         Used cartons from liquor shops preferably fitted with dividers are useful for packing cups, glasses and stemware.

-         Cups and glasses may be put one inside the other and three or four pieces may be packed in a bundle.

-         With regard to food items, no open containers like milk should be packed. Dry containers and boxes like cereals and spices should be sealed with tape before packing. If you are sending your items for storage, no food item should get in as it attracts insects and termites.

-         Stereo system, computers and other electronic items are best packed in their original cartons. If you have not stored the original boxes, you must procure sturdy cardboard boxes to pack them. Stuff all empty corners and other spaces with shredded paper so that no amount of jerking during transit can upset the position of the equipment.

-         There are many household items which should not be packed. These include aerosol cans and other inflammable items.  

-         While packing fragile and delicate goods, put adequate stickers on the appropriate boxes. ‘This side up’ stickers are also useful for refrigerators, dishwashers, etc.