Packing hints and tips

Tips for packing

If you are planning to use Pickfords Small Moves service and want to pack your goods yourself, here are some simple tips to packing and wrapping that will help protect your goods during transit to your new home:

• Wrap each item individually.
• Use sturdy cartons that are designed for household removals.
• Put heavy items into smaller boxes for easy lifting.
• Never overfill a carton. As a guide, one person should be able to comfortably lift a packed carton unaided.
• Put heavy things at the bottom of any carton to avoid crushing other items.
• Pad out space within a carton with crushed white paper to ensure there is no movement within the carton during the move.
• Label each carton carefully so you know its contents.
• Tape each carton closed once full.
• Make sure cartons are packed the right way up.

Pitfalls to avoid

• Never bend at the waist to pick up a carton - bend at the knees and keep your back straight.
• Don't start packing a carton without taping the bottom. First fold two opposite flaps, then the remaining two flaps over. Use one length of tape along the central seam. Use two further lengths of tape over the edge of seams. Tape the top in the same way.
• Don't attempt to pack cartons the wrong way up.
• Don't leave cartons with too much space inside; always pack the carton to the very top and to both sides. Any gaps can cause the carton to crush or items to be damaged.
• Never crisscross the carton flaps. To close a carton, always fold in two opposite sides followed by the remaining two.
• Cartons should not be placed on polished surfaces; any dirt and grit impregnated into the bottom of packed cartons can cause scratching of the surface.
• Take care when reopening cartons if cutting the tape with a knife to avoid damaging the contents.

If packing your goods seems like hard work, you can include packing services in your service. Get a quote for the Small Moves service from Pickfords or request a call back to speak to a member of staff as soon as possible. For more packing tips, take a look at the comprehensive guides on our moving advice centre.