• Separate your boxes by size, and place appropriate size boxes in each room.


• Have all supplies such as tape, bubble wraps, packing paper, permanent marker, and labels gathered near your boxes when packing your belongings.


• Pack one room at a time. Mark each box with a complete description of its contents and destination to be placed upon arrival at your new location. (i.e. kitchen, master bath).


• Put heavy items in small boxes and light items in large boxes. Keep weight of boxes reasonable. Group items of similar size and weight. Wrap heaviest items first with bubble wrap or packing paper and place on bottom of box. Wrap lighter items with the same packing materials and place on top of the heavier items, separated by bubble wrap. Fill all voids with packing paper or bubble wrap to prevent shifting during your move.


• Double box fragile items. Fill voids between boxes with packing paper or bubble cushioning to avoid shifting.


• Use "FRAGILE" labels on boxes with breakable items. This will alert the movers to handle with extra care throughout the moving process.


• When making boxes, reinforce the bottom of all boxes with 2" packing tape. Start by taping the seam where the two flaps meet, leaving 4" of overlap on each side. Add two more strips in the same direction, on both sides of your first strip, approximately half way between your strip and the edge of the box. For additional reinforcement, add two perpendicular strips equal distance from each other and the edge of the box. Use a tape dispenser to make the job easier.


• Fill each box as much as possible using packing paper to fill empty space to prevent shifting and breakage.


• Make sure tops and sides of boxes do not bulge or sag. Under-packed boxes may collapse and over-packed boxes may rupture.


• For books, lay flat and alternate bindings to prevent damage.


• Pack plates on their edges in double wall corrugated dish boxes. Dish/Glass Dividers (also known as cell packs) will help keep these items safe and organized.


• Bubble wrap your fragile items. Small bubble is recommended for smaller, lighter weight items. Large bubble (more air in bubbles) is recommended for larger, heavier weight items. For added protection, line your box with bubble wrap before packing.


• To keep large items clean and sanitary, use mattress bags, furniture bags, and stretch wrap.


• Use moving blankets to wrap furniture, appliances, TV's, or other large objects.

Use only strong, corrugated carton boxes with covers. The added strength may avoid damage that results from the use of poor-quality packing materials. Collect old newspapers for use in packing, but remember that ink may rub off and stain clothing or other items.

Keep in mind that insect eggs and insects can travel in food boxes.