When you move, there’s the always the question of packing. You can certainly pay a professional mover to pack all your things for you, but if you don’t have that option, then you’ll have to pack everything yourself. Packing your things to move, however, involves much more than just sticking things into a box. You’ll have to take certain precautions when packing certain items, especially fragile items. So if you’re scratching your head, wondering how to pack what item, here’s a list of common items you may have to pack up, and how best to pack them.

Dinnerware and china

With proper cushioning, you can ensure that your goods will arrive at their destination safely. For plates wrap each piece individually in clean paper, then take three wrapped pieces and wrap them together. Take your box and place a layer of cushioning at the bottom. Then, stack the bundled pieces, making sure you put enough padding in between each bundle.

For glasses and stemware, fill each piece with cushioning and wrap each piece individually. Special boxes can be purchased to accomodate glasses, otherwise, make sure the box you use has enough padding. Cup should be stacked upside down.

Computers and electronics

If you still have them, pack the items in their original packaging. Otherwise, this may be a good instance to invest in good packing materials. Wrap each piece individually in bubble wrap. Place enough cushioning in the boxes. Take all the cords and wires and put them together, and tape them to the box containing the item for easy access. The trick is to make sure the item is packed tightly, so as not to jostle the items during the move.

Figurines

Wrap each piece in bubble wrap, and then a sheet of paper, and place into a well-cushioned box.

Clothes and Shoes

To protect your shoes, pack them in the original box or wrap them in paper. For clothes, invest in wardrobe boxes which accommodate hangers. This will save you the trouble of washing and ironing them later on. Any other folded clothes can be packed into suitcases to save space.

Lamps

Separate the base and the shade. Wrap each in paper and place in a well-cushioned box. The shades can be nested together, providing that they are well-cushioned.

Books

If you’re particular about books, then place layer of clean paper in between each book. No need to use a cushioned box, but make sure you pack them flat, and alternating the open side and the spine. Use small cartons, as books ar heavy.

Framed photos and paintings

Wrap each tightly in bubble wrap or paper. For oil paintings, make sure the paper does not touch the painting.

Appliances

Appliances like stoves and washing machines may need additional time for disconnection – check with your movers if they offer this service and how much time they need do this. Make sure your appliances are clean and dry before transporting them and remove any loose items (like oven racks and ice trays). Wait at least 24 hours before reconnecting and using your machines, to allow them time to settle.

Furniture

Beds should be assembled when moving, to prevent damage. Pack away cushions and pillows in plastic bags before loading them into the moving van. Wrap mattresses in mattress bags. Glass tabletops should be packed in special boxes (ask your movers). Use industrial shrink wrap and/or furniture padding to protect your furniture. Tape drawers to keep them closed and so they won’t fall out.

Jewelry

Keep jewelry (and other valuables) in a secure, locked box with you at all times. Do not load them into the movings vans.

Plants

Check if you can bring in your potted plants to your new state, or if they will survive in different weather. You can also pack the in large boxes, just make sure there’s plenty of cushioning to prevent the pots from being destroyed. If you don’t want to move plants, take cuttings with you to your new home.\

Food

If you’ve planned your move well, then by moving day you should probably have an empty refrigerator and pantry. Throw away anything perishable items (butter, milk etc.). For other items like condiments and spices, seal any open containers with tape.