Packing is probably the most time consuming of all moving tasks. You might take a look at your stuff and think you’d better start working out at the gym if you’re going to be able to haul it all! But you don’t need to be Hercules to pack and move — you just have to call a professional mover to help you. When it comes to packing heavy items, it’s certainly true that this can be back-breaking work (literally!), so prepare beforehand so you’re not left with a sore body the day after packing day.
It all starts with the right kind of packing boxes.
Pick up the right supplies: Purchase heavy-duty shipping boxes and double-ply cardboard boxes. You need something that will hold the weight of your heaviest items. Those free boxes at the grocery store just won’t cut it. Purchase specialty boxes for specific purposes, such as those for books, dishes, bottles, pictures and TVs. You can even rent or buy plastic crates rather than hassle with cardboard boxes. Choose wooden crates for heavy artwork and other awkwardly-shaped, fragile or heavy items.
Get thick wrapping: Remember, the thicker you go on wrapping, the less potential for breakage. You’ll need bubble wrap, foam padding and moving blankets. But don’t be afraid to improvise with what you already have in your house, such as blankets, sheets and towels. You can also use suitcases and laundry baskets in place of boxes.
Use small moving boxes for heavy items: If you choose larger boxes, they will weigh too much, making it difficult and even dangerous to lift and carry. In addition, those contents could easily break under their own weight.
Reinforce the boxes: Use heavy-duty packing tape to tape up your boxes so they don’t fall apart or sink in. Place bubble wrap on the bottoms of the boxes before adding items.
Prepare heavy items before you pack: This may include cleaning and emptying the items, removing detachable parts and packing them separately, disassembling furniture pieces, and dismantling household appliances and tools.
Pack the right way: Use a sturdy, padded box that is just a bit larger than the item you’re going to put in it. Nestle the item inside so that it doesn’t touch the sides. Stuff gaps with pieces of cardboard, foam, packing peanuts or bubble wrap. Top off the box with cushioning materials, as you want to be able to close the top on a firm surface so it doesn’t cave in when stacked or moved.
Seal that box and put it in another: Choose one that is many inches larger than the one you already packed. Place padding materials between the two boxes, then tape the outside box closed.
Label the boxes properly: In order to indicate to movers that the contents are heavy or fragile, write HANDLE WITH CARE or THIS END UP on all cartons.
Keep the weight down: No boxes should weigh more than 50 pounds, advises Moving Tips. If your boxes are more than 50 pounds, they really should be moved by professionals.
Professional movers have the equipment and know-how to safely and efficiently move even the heaviest of items. Rely on their expertise!
Contact Olde World Movers in the Dallas/Fort Worth Metro
For help packing heavy items in the Dallas or Fort Worth area, contact us at 817-545-7477 to book your appointment today. Or, get a free online estimate.
