Practical packingtips

We have collected some handy tips from experienced movers. Use these valuable tips to your advantage.

Coding
It is wise to pack per room and 'code' the boxes with contents and number of room in your new home. Give each room of your new house a number. If you wish you can make a list with extensive details of contents of the boxes. Of course this will take time, but will eventually make searching a lot easier.

Electronics
Use -if at all possible- the original boxes for appliances. Fill the boxes with packing paper, newspapers or blankets. Do not pack sharp objects together with vulnerable objects. Make sure the washing machine is detached and empty and set the drum in safety mode for transportation. To ensure it remains closed tape the door of the defrosted refrigerator and make sure it is transported in an upright position. The night before the removal set your deep freezer at its highest level and insulate it with blankets during the removal. Even better: empty it before you move.

Breakables
Packing crockery requires extra attention. Your mover has special packing paper to protect your precious dinner service in the boxes. Roll silver ware in blotting paper. It is essential you wrap every breakable item. You can pack this together with your linen. Mark these boxes with 'careful, fragile, glassware'. Heavier materials, like plates should be packed on the bottom of the box. Put extremely fragile glass objects, like wineglasses and bottles upright in the boxes. Keep flammable and dangerous substances apart.

Heavy goods
It is not advisable to pack many small, but heavy goods together in one box. Pack books at the bottom of the box and put lighter items on top to fill it. Books need to be packed lying down to avoid damage to their backs. Don't make boxes too heavy and use small boxes for heavy items. This makes moving them easier and decreases the risk of damage.

Cloathing and rugs
Clothing can be hung in special wardrobe boxes. This is the best way of preventing creases. Do not fold your rugs, but roll them up to avoid damage.

Curtains and lamps
You can take drapes down and put them in boxes. Disassemble lamps and put shades in boxes. Pack loose items with great care.

Clocks and paintings
With clocks you need to secure the pendulum. Let large (upright) clocks be packed by your professional mover. This is the best way of ensuring their safe transport.

Plants
Depending on distance and time it is possible to take plants with you. You can put small plants in boxes; your mover will take care of the large ones.

Cars and motorbikes
Empty the fuel tanks as much as possible and disengage the battery. When loading always pay attention to leaking or fragile parts.

Valuables
Don't leave keys in wardrobes or desks, they can be lost. Make sure to keep keys, money and cheques in your carry-on luggage. The same goes for expensive jewellery and important documents. Other valuable goods are the tools you will need after your removal has been completed. Make sure you have them at hand so that you can get to work in your new house without delay after arrival.