My Piedmont and Oakland Real Estate Adventures. History, Architecture and Homes

Part 2 of my Moving and Packing tips.

Tips when packing.

Once the box is packed you need to label the contents so you can make sure the movers (or you) can get the box to the right room in the new house. Is usually recommended labeling the box for where it goes, not where it came from. If you are using new boxes, there is usually ample places to write the contents and mark the rooms but if you are using used boxes, you might need to cross out someone else’s writing. This can get messy so try a color code instead, that way the movers (or your friends) don’t need to figure out your handwriting. Get a selection of colored sticky dots at the office supply store, and slap a sticker on the top and a side or two of the box. Make a map of your house and place it by the front door as the movers carry the boxes in for reference. Maybe the kitchen boxes are the ones with red dot, the bedroom is blue, and the garage is green and red.  The possibilities are endless and the stickers don’t fall off.

Tape and packing paper. This is not the place to save money, buy larger rolls of quality clear tape (usually 2 ½ - 3 in wide). The large rolls will save you money over the smaller rolls and this tape will always be handy around the house. Duct tape is OK but it is more expensive. Again use a few strips on the bottom of most boxes and maybe a few extra on the top of heavier boxes for support. Don’t use tape to keep drawers shut, it will usually peel off the finish and leave marks.

For packing paper you can use newspaper (start saving early) or buy unprinted newsprint from you movers or storage company.  The unprinted newsprint will not get ink on your fine china. 50 to 80 lbs of newsprint will go very quickly if you protect your breakable well so don’t buy just one 15 lb box and expect it to last. For fine china, some people prefer to used bubble wrap and this is fine for cross country trips, but it does cost more. A well packed box with packing paper is fine for most local moves.

Wardrobes.

Many movers will bring wardrobes for your hanging clothes if you ask. These are large boxes with a metal bar across the top. I don’t recommend putting shoes or other items into the bottom of the box, they get very heavy and the bottom may blow out, just put your hanging clothes in. Depending on the size of your closets you may need anywhere from 4 to 10 wardrobes.

Part 3 coming soon.

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