Cardboard Boxes

• Always seal the bottom of the box with enough tape to secure it. Seal along the join where the flaps meet and follow up the side of the box by a few inches. Sealing the sides will add extra protection. A handheld tape dispenser is very useful when sealing your boxes. You may find our How to Seal a Box guide useful.


• Never interlock the flaps of the box as it reduces the strength of the box.


• Use small sized boxes for packing heavier items such as tinned food, books, CDs, DVDs etc.


• Use medium sized boxes for packing kitchen items such as utensils and plates and fragile items such as ornaments.


• Use large sized boxes for packing toys, bedding, clothes etc.


• The general rule is the heavier the item, the smaller the box so as not to cause back problems by lifting heavy boxes. Picture boxes are a simple and easy way to pack mirrors, frames, pictures and prints.


• Wardrobe boxes allow you to transport hanging clothes easily by leaving the clothes on the hangers and hanging on the rail included with the box.


• Archive boxes are a great way to store and transport files and folders.

Sealing and Labelling

• Use a handheld tape dispenser where possible for ease of sealing boxes. Our How to use a tape dispenser guide may help you.


• Identify the contents of the box by using marker pens, different coloured tapes and/or labels.


• Use warning labels for boxes that contain fragile and breakable items.

Protection

• Use wrapping paper, tissue paper, foam wrap and/or bubble wrap to ensure your belongings are adequately protected.


• Use plate dividers when packing your crockery.


• Edge protection is a great product to protect the edges of tables, cabinets, wardrobes etc.


• Use sofa covers, mattress covers and furniture blankets to protect from dust and dirt.


• Silicia gel sachets are great for stopping moisture damaging the contents of boxes. They can also be used in drawers, wardrobes etc.

Other Helpful Tips

• Grip seal bags are great for keeping nuts and bolts together when dismantling wardrobes, taking shelves down etc.


• Make sure you unplug and drain your washing machine and dishwasher a few days before your move.


• Use up your frozen food a few days before your move so you can defrost your freezer in time for the big move.


• Get up to date with your laundry a few days before your move so you have no wet washing to take with you.