• Use smaller boxes for books and heavy items
• Use larger boxes for lighter items
• Reinforce the bottom of boxes with at least one strip of packing tape
• Pack boxes firmly to prevent the contents from shifting
• Seal boxes tightly with wide packing tape
• Pack records and CDs vertically! Don't stack them flat, they will warp or bend 1
• Place heavier items in the bottom of the box and lighter items on top

Furniture & Appliances

• Rent or purchase an appliance dolly for furniture, major appliances, and stacks of boxes.
• For major appliances, consult your user's manuals for specific moving and safety instructions.
• Wipe and dry the interiors of all appliances.
• Tape and or tie down all movable parts.
• Remember, loading heavy furniture and appliances is not a one-person job. Get help.

Beds

• Disassemble the bed frame and mark each piece so you will have an easy time putting it back together. (Use packing tape to tie rails together.)
• Wrap mattresses in plastic mattress covers.

Books

• Never pack more than 30 pounds of books in a box.
• Alternate bindings and cushion with packing paper.

Clothing

• Hang clothing from closets in wardrobe boxes or plastic garment bags.
• Store clothing from dresser drawers in sturdy cardboard boxes. If the boxes still have some space, consider filling them with bubble wrap.

Artwork, Mirrors, & Lamps

• Wrap in bubble wrap and stack in a large box with bubble wrap or large peanuts.
• Remove light bulbs, harps, and lamp shades off lamp.
• Artwork & mirrors should be wrapped in paper, covered with cardboard.

Collectables

• Wrap each fragile item separately with bubble wrap and packing tape
• Layer wrapped items in sturdy cardboard box using large peanuts or wadded paper between.
• Place a final layer of peanuts or wadded paper on top, seal and mark.