If you’ve decided on using a U-Pack moving company, then the next thing you’ll have to worry about is making sure you pack all your things properly so that they’ll arrive at your new home safe and sound.

First, you’ll need the right tools for the job.

You’ll need:

• Boxes – get the good quality, professional boxes. If you’re on a budget and/or earth-friendly, then check sources like Craigslist to find people selling boxes for a discount or even giving them away for free. Make sure they’re in good condition – boxes that are too worn may not be able to protect your stuff
• Packaging Tape, at least 2″ width – get more than enough for your boxes, or else you’ll be making last minute trips to the hardware store
• Packing paper – no need to spend for these, old newspapers will do the job; use these for cushioning or double-wrapping
• Tissue paper and bubble wrap – wrap delicate items in either, as newspaper ink can rub off on items like china or porcelain
• Box cutter and scissors – essential for cutting packaging tape and packing paper
• Markers – to label boxes accordingly

Where to  begin:

First of all, get organized, as this will help you later on. Label the boxes, not just with generic titles (“Kitchen”, “Living Room”), but with a list of things that are inside. This will save you the trouble of looking for essential items you may need later. Number the boxes and create an inventory list – that way you can check off each box as they’re loaded onto the van and keep track of them when they are unloaded.

Get rid of excess items. If you’re moving to a smaller place, you may want to de-clutter – you’ll save space in the moving van as well.

When thinking of what to pack first, start with the items you won’t be needing soon. If you’re moving in the summer, for example, then coats and quilts can be the first ones to be put away.

You can start with any room, but do try to keep things together – keep forks, spoons and knives in one box, keep hooks with picture frames and if you’re disassembling furniture, keep the parts together and small items (like screws) in an envelope and tape it to the box.

Wrap padding around furniture that can be scratched, like tables, chairs and cabinets. This will also prevent your furniture from scratching up surfaces in your new home.

When filling up boxes, distribute the weight among the boxes, to make it easier to lift boxes. Also, make sure to pack heavier items at the bottom and lighter ones on top.

Do not pack: flammable or hazardous materials, perishable foods (even condiments), valuables (like jewelry, coin or stamp collections) or important papers.