Essential Packing Tips for a Move

Published: August 15, 2024

Moving can be daunting, especially when it comes to packing your most valuable and delicate items. Whether it’s your prized electronics, cherished artwork, or a wardrobe full of clothing, ensuring everything arrives safely at your new home is paramount. Here’s a helpful guide to help you pack these specific items effectively.

Packing Electronics:

Gather Supplies

Before you start, make sure you have the following supplies:

• Original packaging (if available)
• Sturdy moving boxes
• Bubble wrap
• Packing paper
• Packing tape
• Labels and markers

Back-Up Important Data

Before you pack your electronics, back up all of the important data from them. Use external hard drives, cloud storage, or USB flash drives to ensure that even if something gets damaged, your data is safe.

Disassemble Components

Carefully disassemble your electronics. Remove all cables, batteries, and any other detachable parts. Keep track of all screws and small parts by placing them in labeled bags and keeping those bags with the electronics.

Wrap and Pack

Wrap each electronic device individually in bubble wrap. Use packing paper to fill any gaps in the box to prevent movement. Place heavier items at the bottom of the boxes and put the lighter ones on top.

Label and Keep Upright

Label each box and mark them as fragile. Indicate which side should be kept upright to prevent any mishandling during the move.

Packing Artwork:

Use Proper Packing Materials

You will need:

• Corner protectors
• Glassine paper
• Foam boards
• Bubble wrap
• Painter’s tape
• Sturdy picture boxes

Protect the Corners

Use corner protectors to safeguard the edges of your artwork. This is crucial for framed pieces as the corners are often the most vulnerable.

Cover With Glassine Paper

Wrap your artwork with glassine paper to protect it from dust, moisture, and smudges. Avoid using newspaper, as the ink can transfer from it.

Create a Sandwich

Place the artwork between two foam boards for added protection. Secure the boards together with painter’s tape.

Wrap and Box

Wrap the foam board sandwich in bubble wrap for additional cushioning. Place the wrapped artwork into a sturdy picture box. Fill any empty spaces with packing paper to prevent any movement during transit. 

Label as Fragile

Clearly label the box with “Fragile” and “Artwork” to ensure careful handling during the move.

Packing Clothing:

Sort and Declutter

Before packing, go through your clothing and set aside items you no longer wear. Donate, sell, or recycle these items to lighten your load.

Choose the Right Boxes

For clothing, you can use:

• Wardrobe boxes
• Suitcases
• Duffel bags
• Regular moving boxes

Pack by Category

Group your clothing by category (e.g., shirts, pants, dresses) and by season. This will make unpacking and organizing much easier.

Use Wardrobe Boxes

For hanging clothes, use wardrobe boxes. These boxes come with a metal bar, allowing you to transfer your clothes directly from your closet to the box without removing them from hangers.

Fold and Roll

Fold or roll clothes that don’t need to be hung. Rolling can save space and reduce wrinkles. Separate delicate fabrics with packing paper.

Protect Shoes

Pack shoes in their original boxes if possible. If not, wrap each pair in packing paper to avoid scuffs and scratches. 

Label by Season

Label your boxes according to the season or category of clothing. This will help you prioritize which boxes to unpack first at your new home.

Moving doesn’t have to be a stressful experience. With careful planning and these packing tips, you can ensure your electronics, artwork, and clothing are protected and arrive safely at your new home. Happy moving!

Looking for a reliable company to assist with the move? Visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Oklahoma City or call (405) 454-8646.