The Moving Planner Blog

Mini storage can be a lifesaver! Who do you know that has enough room for all of their belongings? And, if you are moving, these locations can provide you with just the right place to store then in the process. There are many reasons to need this type of storage, but how do you go about choosing one location or the next? Really, is there a difference? There are several things that you should look for in the mini storage units that you plan to purchase.

• First, start by knowing what is available in your area. In most cases, you will be able to find several storage units that you can rent. You’ll find them advertised on the web on various websites. Look for several so that you can compare what they have to offer.

• Next, you will want to understand just what is out there in several aspects. The first thing to consider is quality. You need an establishment that can provide you with high quality. The environment should be clean and organized. The facility should provide for temperature control as needed. And, you should find no problems accessing the location when you need to.

• Next, you need to look at security. What type of security does the location provide for your needs? Although you can lock the unit, can they still get in to it? And, do they provide you with a monitoring system to monitor who tries to enter you storage unit?

• Next, you need to check if the mini storage facility provides climate controlled units for your comfort and to protect your personal or business items in all weather conditions.

• Finally, you will want to look for a competitive price in the storage units as well. Depending on the area, the quality and the security provided, you should be able to find a very affordable price to choose.

It is important to realize that quality and security are more important aspects for the choice in one mini storage unit over the other. But, it is essential that you get the best price as well.

Read an article By Tom Vanderbilt: Self-Storage Nation - Americans are storing more stuff than ever.

The following tips often help children get used to the move before, during and after a family relocates.

Tips

Include the children in making plans for the move. For example, take them house-hunting with you.

Help your child/ren learn about the new area.

Through play-acting with dolls, boxes and a wagon, children can get a feeling of “moving”.

Let the children help decide how their new rooms are to be arranged and decorated.

Encourage children to exchange addresses and phone numbers with their friends.

Prepare a package for each child containing snacks, some clothing, a few favorite toys and maybe a new toy,for the move.

Take a “family break” as soon as the major unpacking is done. Don’t try to do everything when you arrive, take everything slowly and let things get on track.

Parents should spend time after the move listening to each child about new schools and new friends.

Follow progress in new schools. Accompanying your child/ren to school the first few days may ease tension.

Any lingering abnormalities (loss of appetite, insomnia, constipation, diarrhea, menstrual disorder) should be reported to a doctor.

If your move involves suburban to rural, or vice versa, caution children about new situations they will face.
Source:http://www.moving.org/brochure/children.html

Dispose of flammables such as fireworks, cleaning fluids, matches, acids, chemistry sets, aerosol cans, ammunition, etc.

Drain fuel from mowers and other machinery, and discard partly used cans of oil, paint, thinner, or other substances that might leak.

Carefully tape and place in individual waterproof bags any jars of liquid you plan to take with you.

Refillable tanks must be purged and sealed by a local propane gas dealer. Discard nonrefillable tanks. Some carriers and the military do not permit shipment of any propane tanks. Check with your moving company first.

Have rugs and draperies cleaned. Leave both wrapped when they are returned from the cleaners.

Obtain a written appraisal of antique items to verify the value. Avoid waxing or oiling wooden antiques and fine wood furniture prior to moving because some products may soften the wood, making it vulnerable to imprinting from furniture pads.

Think twice before dismantling your outside TV antennae; a new one may cost less than moving the present one.

Third-party servicing will likely be needed before moving such items as hot tubs, large-screen TVs, and some exercise equipment.

Talk to your moving company about PRE and POST move servicing of washer, dryer, refrigerator, dishwasher, grandfather clock, satellite dish, etc.

Moving Appliances

AIR CONDITIONERS
Consult your authorized dealer or service man on your particular model. Some sealed units should be bolted down.
DRYERS (ELECTRIC OR GAS)
Check with your service man. Motors may need to be checked and secured.
FREEZERS
These appliances must be completely defrosted one or two days prior to moving. They should be dried and aired to avoid musty odor. Safety of contents cannot be guaranteed, so it is best to empty your freezer and plan meal that will use up perishable contents. Check with your service man to be sure the motor is bolted, if necessary.
REFRIGERATORS
Defrost and thoroughly dry your refrigerator before moving. This is very important. The doors should be left open several hours to air after defrosting. All pans, trays, crispers, shelves, or removable parts should be removed and wrapped individually. Have your refrigerator serviced. The motor may have to be bolted down before moving. Do not plug it in at the new home until it has been unbolted.
SEWING MACHINES
The do not need special servicing for local moving. For long distance, the driver should stuff paper in and around the machine and place paper between the lid and base to prevent rubbing.
STOVES
Stoves must be disconnected prior to pickup. Be sure gas lines are shut tightly and capped. For electric ranges, removable coils (and all other removable parts) must be packed separately.
TELEVISION SETS
Some set require that the be checked before moving. Some color TVs must be service both before and after moving. Television antennas should be removed from roof tops and disassembled (if necessary).
WASHERS
Washers must be serviced by an authorized service man. Motors should be checked and secured, tumbler action protected and fastened in place.
Source:http://www.moving.org/brochure/safety.html

Moving can be a simple and quick process - if you get it right. The following tips, tricks and insider secrets will give you an added edge to make sure your whole move is smooth and successful. Personally, I have used these tips and gained a lot, after all these tips are free, and they could possibly save you a lot of money.

Preparation

Use the move as an opportunity to have a clear-out. Have a yard sale or go to a car boot sale with anything you don’t need/want. Or give your local charity shop a boost. Either way it’ll make you move cheaper and easier and might actually make you some cash.
Think about the space in your new home before you move and start to imagine the best way to arrange your furniture in it. You can even make sketches if you like. This will make moving in much easier and help you feel at home.
Take any staples out of boxes before you pack them. Stray staples can scratch floors and surfaces, as they’ll probably move in transit.
Buy LOTS of packing tape (or get some from your moving company) . It’s great for strengthening boxes, won’t let them open in transit and can be easily opened when you want to with a knife.
If you have a piano think about how it’s going to get out of the house - your mover may need special equipment.
Plan where your movers can park to load and unload - the further they have to walk the longer it’ll take.
If you’re moving yourself hire something to help you move stuff in bulk such as a trolley or dolly. It’ll speed up the move and help make sure you don’t injure yourself!
Teach your kids your new address and phone number as soon as you have it.
Don’t use any special cleaning/maintenance products such as wax or oils on antique furniture for a couple of weeks before your move. They can make the wood softer for a few weeks and leave it more likely to get damaged.
If you unplug your TV a day before your move it’ll settle down to room temperature. Unplug it just before you move and it’ll retain heat - this can actually cause internal damage.
Write down instructions for any systems in your home such as central heating and air conditioning etc., and make sure the people moving in know any alarm codes. If you have brochures, guarantees or any paperwork relating to systems or appliances you’re leaving behind make sure to leave them somewhere obvious. This will make their move much easier for them.
If your new home has an alarm system ask for the code before you move!
Try to get a good night’s sleep before your moving day. Leaving things to the last minute so you’re up all night will just wear you out for the next day.

Packing

Packing starts out being fun but can soon get boring. Make yourself feel better about it by setting deadlines (i.e. a week to pack up the garage etc) and keeping to them!
Underpacking is almost as bad as overpacking and the contents of underpacked boxes are MUCH more likely to be damaged. Make sure you fill boxes with a mix of heavy and light. For more info about boxes: http://www.flatrate.com/nyc_movers/boxes.asp
 Don’t leave all your packing to the last day. You’ll be up all night and still not get it done right. But don’t beat yourself up if you don’t get everything done. The majority of us will run round in a flat panic as moving day approaches. If you’re pushed for time it doesn’t matter if you just box up non-fragile items quickly or even just stuff them in bags. If this happens to you do make sure you ask your movers to take extra care or just transport these last-minute packed things yourself.
Don’t use foam ‘peanuts’ to pack round a computer - they can generate static electricity and cause damage.
Try not to wrap fragile items in newspaper, as the print will come off on them. You’ll just have to wash everything before you can put it away. And, newsprint doesn’t generally come off well in a dishwasher so chances are you’ll be washing them by hand. If you don’t want to buy wrapping materials save up magazines for a few weeks beforehand.
Don’t use newspaper to wrap around lampshades - chances are you’ll not be able to get the newsprint off again!
Get one of your removal men to do a last walk-round your old house with you before you leave. A fresh pair of eyes can often spot things you’ve left behind.
If you’re in the habit of hanging clothes or stuff behind bedroom doors remember to check them as well. This is one of the most common places people forget stuff.
Write OPEN FIRST on boxes of essential items and DO NOT MOVE on boxes you’re planning on taking with you!

Moving

It’s easier to clean your new home before you move in. If you can’t do it yourself think about hiring professionals to whiz round for a couple of hours before your load arrives.
Try to move on a weekday. It’ll be less busy, may even be cheaper and you’ll be able to get hold of the contacts you might need if there is a problem such as utilities companies not connecting services etc.
Tell your movers if some of your boxes contain fragile items even if you have marked them clearly. They’ll take extra care if you warn them in advance.
You don’t need to take drawers out of chests of drawers for the move - even if they can’t be locked. To stop them falling out in transit place the item with drawers facing the wall of the moving vehicle or against a bigger item with a flat surface.
If you’re carrying heavy boxes bend with the knees and not with your back!
Have your stereo speakers loaded away from your TV - they can damage it!
Before your movers arrive try to make sure that all boxes and containers etc are stacked neatly in the room (ideally around the walls) and leave them room to maneuver. This will speed up the process.
Make sure someone is at your new home to meet the movers and to tell them where to unload stuff.
Moving is a weird mix of action and boredom. Prevent people flagging by taking regular short breaks. Feed people regularly - they’ll be using a lot of energy.
If you’re moving with kids let them loose on their new bedrooms with a couple of boxes of stuff they can unpack to keep them occupied. Alternatively give them jobs to do such as helping movers put boxes in the right rooms etc.
Don’t lay major appliances such as refrigerators on their sides - it can cause damage if they’re not kept upright.
Give your mover your cellphone number or that of your new home so they can keep in touch with you if necessary. Try and get a number for them too.
If you notice that your possessions or buildings get damaged by the movers on the day of the move tell the guy in charge immediately. make sure that the guy in charge saw the damage, and will take care of it.

After The Move

Don’t forget to tip your movers. It’s a nice touch to tip them all individually if they’ve been really helpful otherwise tip the guy in charge and he’ll sort them all out. Don’t feel you have to tip if you’re disappointed with the service they provided. (In my experience, you only tip if you are extremely happy with the service they gave you).
Give electrical items a chance to get to room temperature before you plug them in.
Expect to feel a bit ‘blue’ a couple of days after the move. It happens all the time and doesn’t mean you hate your new home - just that the move and the thought of unpacking has taken its toll on you a bit.
Call your friends and family to let them know you’ve moved safely.
If you feel up to it throw a housewarming party!
Keep your kids occupied and give them lots of attention - they’ll probably be unsettled by the move. Make time to have some fun!
Check for damage as soon as you can - some insurance policies only give you a specific time to make a claim. Miss it and you won’t be able to claim. 

 For more moving tips visit :http://www.themovingplanner.com/moving-planning-new-yorks-best-mover-offers-20-tips-for-sweet-summer-moves.html

Source:http://www.moving-company-guide.com/moving-tips.htm

Before Your Move

One-two months before….

Put together a ‘moving list’ to keep notes of what you need do, what you’ve done etc.
Use this checklist to help you assess what you need to do and when and write out your own plan.
Buy a file to store all the documentation and paperwork associated with the move.
If you haven’t got a moving company yet, GET ONE!   For more info about how to find the right moving company for you visit:http://www.themovingplanner.com/moving-planning-choosing-a-moving-company.html
If you need to move vehicles, pets or specialist items and you need outside help start sorting it out now.
If you need to use storage facilities look at your options and book it.
Make a list of everyone you need to notify of your change of address.
Start contacting key financial providers such as your bank or other institutions to have your details changed and to start up the process of cancelling/setting up automatic payments and/or accounts etc.
Notify schools and employers of change of address. If moving out of the area you’ll need to register your kids for a new school.
Start packing non-essential stuff (it’s never too soon to begin!) whenever you have some free time.
Buy, hire, beg, borrow or steal suitable boxes and containers to pack your stuff into.
Talk to your doctor, dentist, veterinarian etc., to notify them of your change of address or to come off their books if necessary. In some cases you may need to get copies of your records to take with you. If moving abroad ask about vaccinations etc. If you or your family (or pets) have regular medical prescriptions, get them filled to cover you throughout the moving process. If you’re moving out of the area ask for referrals to new practices.
Contact all of your insurers (home, vehicle, medical etc) to notify them of your move. Ask your home insurer for details of your existing coverage for the actual and arrange new coverage or a transfer to your new home.
Get a lockable box and start putting in important documents as you come across them.
Give all service providers such as gardeners, domestic help and regular delivery services notice that you will be moving. Cancel or change any subscriptions or memberships you have.
Send out change of address notices to friends and family if you have a firm moving date now. You’ll have less time as the days pass so it’s good to get this out of the way.
Get a form from your local Post Office for their mail forwarding service, fill it in and send it off.
Start making an inventory of your goods and take photos/videos of valuable items.
Complete any repairs to your home that you are committed to.
Two-three weeks before……

Contact utility companies and service providers to arrange to have your appliances/services disconnected and, if necessary, reconnected in your new home.
Move your packing up a gear. Take a room a day and start packing up stuff you don’t use regularly.
Take back library books, pick up dry-cleaning and think about any other similar things you may have pending in the area.
Have your car(s) serviced.
Start living off your store cupboard and freezer and stop buying frozen or perishable food - you can’t really take it with you and it’ll make the move easier.
Put aside a box/boxes for personal/essential items that you want to take with you yourself rather than have the movers take. Start putting stuff in it as you come across it. Mark it DO NOT MOVE so your movers don’t load it by mistake.
Pack up your garage and any stuff that is stored in your yard, garden or sheds.
Empty your lawnmower and power tools of fuel etc.
Dispose of anything that is flammable or hazardous.
Think about what you’re going to do with the kids!

One week before…..

Call your mover and any other companies involved with the move (vehicle movers, storage facilities etc) and confirm all of your arrangements, times etc.
Carry on packing!
Start taking apart furniture that needs to be disassembled.
Check that your new home is still set to be insured.
Make sure all your outstanding bills are paid.
One-two days before…..

Defrost and clean your refrigerator/freezer and secure major appliances such as washing machines/cookers etc. Make sure that utility companies are confirmed to disconnect services/take meter readings etc.
Finish taking apart furniture that needs to be disassembled.
Sort out any plants you’re taking with you.
Check that all the paperwork related to your house sale/rental/purchase is complete.
Close bank accounts if necessary.
Finish your major packing.
Pack up your PC and other electrical equipment. Write down the serial numbers in your moving book.
Put together a box of essentials for the move such as tea, coffee, mugs, sugar, tools, paper and pen and cleaning materials.
Make sure all boxes are clearly marked/labelled.
Start cleaning the house as you go along.
Make sure you have all the documents related to your move to hand.

During Your Move

Moving day at your old home…..

Get up early and don’t panic!
Take bedding off beds and pack it up.
Walk your movers through the house, tell them what you need them to do and take their advice on the actual loading.
Make sure your movers know where they are going.
Give the house a final clean.
Leave a note of your name, new address and contact number for the new residents of your home so they can forward any mail that slips through the cracks.
Have a final walk round to check you’ve remembered everything - do this BEFORE the moving vehicle leaves!
Make sure you have keys to your new home and drop off your current keys as you’ve arranged.
Make sure you load everything you’re taking yourself in the car and lock it!
Switch everything off, lock up and leave!

Moving day at your new home…..

Check everything is working such as power, gas etc - if not, call the utilities companies to find out why not!
Supervise the unloading process to get everything where you want it.
Offer the movers a drink and snack!
Clean before you start unpacking.
Start unpacking essentials.

After Your Move

Unpack logically working down from essential to non-essential items.
Reassemble your furniture when you have time.
Don’t worry about filling wardrobes immediately if you have hired/bought special wardrobe boxes. They can hang perfectly well in there until you have time to put them away properly.
Get all of your major appliances ready for use again and hook them up.
Unpack all electrical items as quickly as possible and check for damage - you may have a limited window for insurance claims.
Register to vote and for any other local government purposes.
Check your mail is being forwarded to your new address.
Register with a doctor, dentist, veterinarian etc.
If necessary change your driver’s license and car details etc.
 
Source:http://www.moving-company-guide.com/moving-checklist.htm

Inside the boxes you use for moving are your valuable, in some cases priceless possessions. Not all boxes are alike. You should be aware of how box quality, size and loads will affect your move. Below are some questions and answers about moving boxes and moving supplies, as well as about our company and our services:

“Why is box strength important?”

Corrugated boxes come in all shapes, strengths and sizes - the stronger the box, the greater the protection for its contents. The moving industry is very competitive, but professional movers use moving boxes that are at least 32 ECT (or 200lb test) in strength. These ratings are standard from the box industry, and help insure that your household belongings will arrive safely. Weaker boxes will crush under load. No moving, truck rental or self storage company should sell a moving box weaker than 32 ECT (200lb test). There are some retailers that sell sell much weaker (by 46%) 150lb test boxes and calling them moving boxes. BEWARE! This box was actually designed for light-weight usage and should not be used for moving.
 

“How Do I Know How Strong My Box Is?”

All boxes have a certificate seal printed on the bottom flap by the manufacturer certifying the box’s strength. Industry standard Moving Boxes are 200lb test weight or 32 ECT. Larger boxes like Wardrobes or kitchen dish pack boxes Kitchen should have a higher test weight/strength. Also on the certificate you will find a capacity in weight that the box is designed to handle. Just because a box is large, doesn’t mean it can carry a lot of weight. Make sure to check box strength before you make a purchase to make sure they are adequate for your needs.
Source:MoveOut.com 

“How Can I Choose The Right Kind Of Boxes And Right Sizes?”

In many cases you will need to go to moving websites in order to see what kinds of boxes there are, what sizes do they come in, and what is the maximum weight they can carry. You can find more information at: http://www.flatrate.com/nyc_movers/boxes.asp. This website provides you with the sizes of the boxes and what each box is used for.

          Citysearch Winner Flatrate Moving Gives Insider Insight

    NEW YORK, Aug. 4 /PRNewswire/ — Moving can be a stressful time –
especially for urban dwellers at the height of the Summer crunch. The good
news? The right preparations — and mover — can alleviate that stress. To
help people everywhere to make an easier Summer move, nationally acclaimed
moving company Flatrate Moving (http://www.Flatrate.com) has released some superb
tips that will help people prepare for their best move ever — and if they
do it with Flatrate, they’re assured of great service and a guaranteed,
flat-rate price.
     Flatrate’s 20 tips:

     *  Don’t wait:  Start packing 3 to 4 weeks before your move.
     *  Start by packing the things you use least, such as books, seasonal
        clothing or sports equipment, and knickknacks.
     *  When packing for a Summer move, bag items that may soften in the heat,
        such as candles, soaps, etc.
     *  Use the opportunity to organize, getting rid of outdated items you
        don’t use.
     *  Use strong cardboard boxes — small boxes for heavier items, large
        boxes for lighter items. Don’t overpack.
     *  Don’t scrimp on Packing Tape (and always buy more than you think
        you’ll need).
     *  Pack your books flat, alternating bindings so they stack evenly.
     *  To stay neat, concentrate on packing one room at a time, stacking
        finished boxes against one wall.
     *  Use your computer to print out labels indicating each box’s source
        room, and attach to each completed box (also saving valuable unpacking
        time).
     *  Pack alarm clocks, medication, valuables, urgent items in a separate,
        clearly marked box or bag.  Make copies of important documents such as
        wills, contracts, and passports.
     *  Always wrap nuts and bolts in a clearly labeled plastic bag.
     *  Empty dressers completely (furniture tends to break more easily if not
        emptied first).
     *  Beware of hidden costs from less scrupulous movers.  To avoid
        additional charges on moving day, (1) provide movers with a copy of
        your inventory list before quote, and (2) get a guaranteed,
        all-inclusive price in writing, before the move.
     *  A good mover should quilt and secure furniture and large items, and
        help to pack and unpack major electronics. They should also provide
        wardrobe boxes on moving day.
     *  One less-known item:  Most movers will not reassemble Baby Cribs, for
        important safety reasons, so make sure to have a knowledgeable person
        ready to do so.
     *  Keep a complete inventory list of everything to be moved. Jot down
        serial numbers on all electronic equipment.
     *  Wrap dishware and glasses individually. Bundle flatware in groups of
        three, then wrap. Separate dishware with packing paper (newspaper may
        leave ink stains).
     *  Do not pack flammables like aerosol cans, paints, or gasoline.
        Carefully dispose of gasoline and oil from machinery beforehand.
        Don’t pack perishables like frozen foods, produce, or plants –
        transport these yourself.
     *  Don’t place soaps, sprays, polishes, and medicine in the same box as
        food.  Don’t pack heavy items with dishware.
     *  Take care of your moving team in the Summer heat.  Keep chilled water
        or soda available so they don’t dehydrate.  If you’re delighted with
        your move, don’t forget to tip upon completion.
    Flatrate Moving was recently voted New York’s “Best Mover 2006″ by
Citysearch. Visit them on the web at http://www.Flatrate.com or
http://www.Flatratemoving.com.
        This press release distributed by PRWEB (http://www.prwebdirect.com), a
service of eMediaWire.

Don’t pack these:

• Flammables. This includes: Paints, thinners (paint removers, etc.), lighter fluid, liquid reservoir lighters, cleaners, adhesives,  fuels (not even for lawnmower), glues, inks, acids, corrosives, or pesticides.
• Gasoline (also called petrol). More details here.
• Perishables, plants, flowers and food.The golden rule for perishables food (eg meat, dairy foods, salad dressings, eggs) is to keep hot food hot and cold food cold. Bacteria grow at temperatures between 5 and 60 degrees C. Keeping food either below or above these temperatures will keep your family safe from food poisoning. Keep perishable foods in an esky along with an ice brick. Throw away leftover BBQ meat that has been sitting around at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
• Do not place medicine in the same box as food.
• Do not pack kitchenware or other heavy items in the same box with dishware.

Pack a “survival” kit which you carry in your car, or have first off the truck:

• Basic Tools — Hammer screwdriver, knife, tape, etc.
• Bathroom products — Soap, toilet paper, towels, etc.
• Kitchen items — Disposable utensils, cups, plates and snacks, drinks, etc.
• Cleaning products — Cleansers, broom, dustpan, sponges, etc.

Source : European Kitchen cabinets 

Once you know you’re moving, you can begin packing your kitchen right away. Start with your rarely used serving dishes, seasonal items and minor appliances. Next, tackle your large serving bowls, tablecloths, and specialty pots and pans. Keep your everyday dishes for the last week before moving. Many people are buying some disposable plates, cups, and utensils for those last few nights when everything is packed away.

Food Items
Use or drop all perishables before moving. Boxed or canned goods should be packed in small boxes. Dispose of any open packages and wrap glass jars to prevent breakage during moving. Don’t risk moving food products during the summer. The inside of a moving van (especially at Florida) can reach 155 degrees.

China & Glassware
Wrap all pieces of tableware china and glassware individually for moving. Old newspapers will do. Extra care will require for Italians or Europeans Glassware which are very delicates. A generous amount of paper padding and cushioning is required for all china and glassware. Label moving cartons with room, contents and “FRAGILE - THIS SIDE UP“.

Larger china and glass plates, platters and other flat pieces are excellent as the lowest layer in a dish pack. Place cushioning material in the bottom of a moving carton. Wrap each piece individually with clean paper, then wrap up to three in a bundle with a double layer of newsprint. Place these bundled items in the moving carton in a row on the edge. Surround each bundle with crushed paper, being careful to leave no voids or unfilled spaces. Add two or three inches of wadded paper on top of the bundle to protect rims and make a level base for the next tier. Horizontal cardboard dividers can be helpful in keeping layers level. Smaller plates, saucers and shallow bowls could make up a second layer. Wrap and pack in the same way as larger items.

Bowls and Odd-shaped Items
Depending on their weight, these might be used for either the bottom or middle layers. Wrap the same way as flat plates. Stand shallow bowls (soup plates, etc.) on edge in the moving carton and deeper ones (such as mixing bowls) nested two or three together, upside down on their rims. Wrap sugar-bowl lids in newsprint, turning them upside down on top of bowls. Then wrap both together in newsprint, followed by a double outer layer. Wrap sugar bowls, cream pitchers, sauce containers, gravy boats, and similar pieces in newsprint and then a double outer wrapping. Place all upright in the moving carton, then top off the layer with wadded newspaper.

Pots & Pans
Pots, pans, and similar items should be wrapped and packed in medium-size moving cartons. Depending on their weight, these might be used for either the bottom or middle layers.

Cups
Even when using a dish pack and cellular dividers, wrap china cups individually first, protecting handles with an extra layer of clean paper. Then, pack cups upside down. If not using cellular dividers, wrap cups individually first in a double layer of paper and place them upside down on rims in a row on an upper layer with all handles facing the same direction. Top off the layer with wadded newsprint.

Silver & Flatware
To protect silver pieces from tarnishing during moving, they should be completely enclosed in newsprint or plastic wrap. Hollow ware including bowls, tea sets, and serving dishes should be wrapped carefully like fragile items and packed like china. Loose flatware may be wrapped individually or in sets, and in paper, clear plastic bags, or small gift boxes that are then secured with tape. Even if silverware is in a chest, consider wrapping the pieces individually and repositioning them in the chest. Or fill all voids in the chest with newsprint to prevent shifting while moving. The chest can be wrapped in a large bath towel. Figurines and Other Delicate Items be sure the items are well protected with plenty of cushioning. Extra care will require for Italians or Europeans Tableware which are very delicates. Wrap first in tissue paper, paper towels, or facial tissue. Then wrap carefully in paper that has been wadded and flattened out. Small mirrors, plaques, and pictures should be wrapped individually in tissue paper with an outer layer of newsprint. A bath towel or small blanket makes an excellent outer wrapping and padding for glass. Place items on edge in a moving carton.

Small Appliances
Items such as clocks, small radios and other small appliances should be wrapped individually and packed in a moving carton cushioned with crushed paper. If their cords disconnect, wrap them in plastic and secure them to the appliance they belong to. Make sure cords are wrapped so as not to scratch or damage items while moving. Steam irons should be emptied of all water, wrapped and placed in the cushioned bottom of a box. You can make cardboard dividers to use between layers by cutting up small book cartons.

Cookbooks
Pack cookbooks of the same general size together, in small book cartons. Pack books either flat, or with the spine touching the bottom of the carton. Do not pack with spine facing upward, as glue can break away from the binder. Expensively bound volumes or those of sentimental value should be individually wrapped before packing.

More info links
New York Movers Organization
Los Angeles Movers Organization

Packing 

Start with the items that are least used and, if possible, pack the items in one room at a time. Make sure you use strong boxes for packing. Always fill the box to the top and close the lid. By doing so, you can stack the boxes on top of each other. Before you start packing your items in the box, ensure that the bottoms of the boxes are well taped to hold the contents. Masking tape is not recommended as the packing tape because it is easy to tear it off. The best type of tape to use is plastic of a width of approximately 1.5 to 2 inches. Never pack the boxes too heavy such that they cannot be lifted safely. Keep each box below 20kg. Try to balance the weight by packing heavy items with some light bulky items such as linen, towels, cushions or soft toys. For boxes that contain both heavy and light items, always place the heavier items at the bottom, graduating to the lightest items on top. Use bubble wrap to pack fragile items. Alternatively, you can use newspapers for packing breakable items. However, do take note that the ink on the newspaper may be smudged onto the packed items. Label all the items in each box clearly. This will come in handy when you unpack the boxes in your new house. Boxes containing fragile or valuable items should also be clearly marked. Pack a bag of daily items that you may need to use 1 or 2 days before and after the move. Do not pack any flammable goods, explosives, and perishable foods with the other items in the boxes. Pack them separately, label the boxes clearly and inform your mover.

Fridges/Freezers

Consume/dispose all groceries in the fridges, if possible, so that you do not need to worry about bringing these groceries to your new house. Empty, defrost and dry out your fridge/freezer one day before the moving. Switch on the fridge/freezer only a few hours after moving to your new house to let the coolants settled down.

Moving your pets

 If possible, make arrangements for your pet(s) to stay with a friend, relative or neighbor whom it is comfortable with. As pet(s) are sensitive animals, they may be distressed with strangers coming into the house for the move. If you cannot find a suitable candidate to take care of your pet(s) during the move, then you may secure your pet in one room to minimise any inconvenience. Make a tag with your name, new phone number and place it onto its collar for the day of the move. In the event that they do really escape during the move, this will increase their chances of getting back to you.

Moving your fish

Never move your fish in their tank. Take the fish out and then remove the water from the tank. Fish should be transported in clean, strong, polythene bags part filled with the tank water. Make sure that you seal the bags leaving a good air pocket above the water. Secure the bags with 2 strong rubber bands and try to use double bags to reduce the chance of leaks. Gently place the bags into a box and clearly label the box with the position arrow or the words “this way up”. Do not feed your fish for at least 24 hours before the move. By doing this you will minimize wastes in the bag. This could harm the fishes, especially those larger fishes that regurgitate food when stressed. Do not forget to keep living plants also bagged up with enough tank water to keep them moist.

Moving your plants

 Plants are one of the items that will take up most space in the truck. Cut off any protruding branches/stalks, which might break off or cause a problem during the move. On the moving day, drain off excess water from the plant pots/vases. Line a box with plastic sheet or newspaper. If the pots are breakable, separate them with newspaper and clearly label the box “fragile”. Do not shut the lid so that the moving team can see that there are plants inside and won’t stack anything on top of the boxes. Large pots should be placed inside plastic bags to prevent the soil from falling out.