Books
Place similar sized books in a carton together and label accordingly.
- Either lay the books flat or side-by-side, with the spine facing down. Be sure to not have the spine facing up because the glue may break away from the binder.
- Wrap books of high monetary or sentimental value individually before packing them in cartons.
Compact Discs, Tapes and Record Collection
Stand compact discs and records on edge, never flat, on a layer of crushed paper. Support at both ends with large, hardcover books or several pieces of cardboard cut to fit. Top with another layer of crushed paper. Identify contents on the outside of the box and mark, “FRAGILE.”
- Cassette tapes should be placed in their cases and wrapped individually in crumpled paper. Place individual tapes either vertically or horizontally on a couple of layers of crushed paper.
- If records are not in jackets, wrap individually in tissue paper or plastic wrap to protect from scratches. Records are heavy and therefore should be packed in small cartons.
Chandeliers
Consult with your Relocation Consultant about whether crating is required for your chandelier.
Glass Table Tops, Large Vases, Marble Slabs and Statues
Review the packing and moving of these specialty items with your Relocation Consultant as crating and special handling will likely be required.
Lamp Bases
After removing the light bulb and lamp harp, wrap these items separately in packing paper. Place them together in a carton, filling voids with wadded paper.
Photographs
Family photographs, videos, slides and negatives should be packed in separate cartons rather than being combined with other household items. (Note: take care when moving to very hot or humid climates by making sure the storage area protects these items from the elements.)
- Protect framed photos with padding and cushioning, and stand them on edge in a carton.
- Label cartons for easy identification.
- If possible, carry irreplaceable items with you to destination.
Pictures and Large Mirrors
Most pictures and mirrors can be wrapped and packed in telescoping mirror cartons. If warranted, these items may require special crating and should be handled by your moving professional.
Silk or Artificial Flowers
An arrangement of artificial flowers should be packed in a separate carton. Wrap carefully in plastic wrap, tissue paper or paper towels. If possible, fasten the base of the floral piece to the bottom of the carton to prevent shifting. Label the carton “FRAGILE – THIS SIDE UP.”
Paintings
Consult with your Relocation Consultant before packing paintings. Note that packing paper should never be permitted to touch the surface of an oil painting.
Piano
A qualified service provider should take care of the preparations for moving a grand or baby grand piano.
- Upright (spinet, console, studio) pianos usually do not require preparation in advance. All pianos are pad-wrapped to protect the surface.
- Plan to have your piano tuned at your new home.
Pool Table
Disassembly and crating of your pool table should be conducted by a third-party service provider. Your Relocation Consultant can assist with scheduling the appointments for this service, both at origin and at destination. Or, you can contact the store where the pool table was purchased to seek assistance.
- Crating is necessary for slate-top pool tables.
- If you decide to not engage a third-party service, you will need to make arrangements at your new home to have the pool table un-crated, reassembled and leveled.
Rugs
The moving company will handle area rugs if you leave them on the floor.
- If you have your area rugs professionally cleaned before your move, you’ll get them back from the cleaners wrapped, rolled and ready for shipping.
- Area rugs should be loaded last and unloaded first so the furniture coming off the truck can be placed right on top of the rug.
Speakers
- Pack speakers in well-cushioned dish packs.
- Any large or unusually heavy speakers will simply be padded and placed on the truck.
- Servicing is usually not required prior to packing for tape deck, receiver or speakers.
Stereo Equipment
Electronic components must be disconnected and ready for transport on move day. Advance preparation is required for compact disc players, digital video disc players and stereo turntables.
- On compact and digital video disc players, secure the laser with transport screws located on the bottom or back of the unit.
- Most turntables have a plastic lock which should be used to hold the tone arm in place. For additional protection, you may tie a piece of string around the arm in case the lock does not hold. Also, secure the platter (where the records are placed) by tightening the appropriate screws. These are usually located on top of the turntable, but check your owner’s manual if in doubt.
- For a DVD or VCR, typically no special servicing is required to move these items. When installing at destination, place on a hard surface, provide appropriate ventilation for openings and do not set objects on top.