Moving Home

Packing should not be a difficult process, if handled properly. A little forward planning can pay dividends.

In Advance of the Move
Start thinking about the move a few weeks in advance:
Be on the lookout for boxes being thrown out at the supermarket or at work that would be suitable for transporting items of different sizes and weights.
Collect newspaper, bubble-wrap, plastic bags and other packaging materials that can be used to protect delicate items while they are in transit.
If using a removal company, find out what types of containers and packaging materials they provide.
Work out in which order you are going to pack things, so as to cause minimum disruption;
Start by packing items that you are not likely to need for a few weeks (books, DVDs, clothes for other seasons, etc.).

Immediately Prior to the Move
Label boxes with a brief description of contents, which room they are to be taken to and make a clear note if contents are fragile.
Label unboxed items (e.g. rugs, carpets, etc.) with their room destination if it is unclear to removers where they should go.
Wrap delicate items in newspaper or bubble-wrap before boxing them up.
Try to keep the weights of boxes as low as possible; distribute heavy items between several boxes; the boxes will be easier to carry and less likely to collapse.
Ensure that box lids are fixed securely.
Dismantle large items such as beds or tables, where possible; remove drawers from chests of drawers.
If you are packing the van yourself, make sure that items cannot shift and get damaged when in transit.
Pack the items that you will want first, at the rear of the van so that they can be unloaded quickly.
Pack an ¡¥essentials' box containing items that you will require on moving day and make sure that it is accessible at all times; consider transporting it in your car rather than in the removal van.

On Arrival at the New Property
Allocate a person who knows where items are to be placed within the property to supervise the unloading of the removal van.
Make sure some cups, plates, utensils, food, drinks, towels and toilet paper are at hand soon after arrival.
A basic tool kit and selection of cleaning materials are useful during and after unloading.