How to Pack Frequently Asked Questions

Welcome to our how to pack frequently asked questions. If you have a specific item that you need to know how to pack we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked how to pack questions to help you pack it like a pro. Search this page quickly by typing what you need help packing in the search bar below.

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How to Pack Dishes for Moving

Moving can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to packing fragile items such as dishes. Dishes are one of the most frequently asked how to pack items. Safeguarding your valuable dishware from damage is crucial for a successful move.

How To Pack China

Packing fine china requires care to ensure your fragile items arrive safely at your new home. Follow these steps:

  1. Gather Materials: Collect sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, and tape. Ensure you have plenty of cushioning materials.
  2. Prepare the Boxes: Line the bottom of each box with crumpled packing paper or bubble wrap for added protection.
  3. Wrap Each Piece: Individually wrap each china piece in bubble wrap or packing paper, securing with tape. For plates, place them vertically in the box rather than stacking them.
  4. Fill the Gaps: As you pack, fill any empty spaces with additional packing paper or bubble wrap to prevent movement during transit.
  5. Label the Boxes: Clearly mark boxes as “Fragile” and indicate which side should face up to ensure careful handling.

Roll or wrap each item individually and tuck in the ends.

How To Pack Plates

Follow these steps to ensure your dinnerware arrives safely at your new home:

  1. Label the Box: Clearly mark the box as “Fragile” and indicate which room it belongs to.
  2. Gather Supplies: You will need sturdy boxes, packing paper or bubble wrap, tape, and markers. You can also purchase special dish pack boxes with cardboard dividers designed specifically for packing plates. These offer superior protection during transit.
  3. Prepare the Boxes: Reinforce the box bottom with tape to prevent it from collapsing.
  4. Wrap Each Plate: Place a sheet of packing paper or bubble wrap on a flat surface. Center a plate and fold the paper around it, ensuring all edges are covered.
  5. Stack Plates: Place wrapped plates vertically in the box. This positioning reduces the risk of breakage.
  6. Fill Gaps: Use additional packing paper to fill any empty spaces, preventing movement during transit.
  7. Label the Boxes: Clearly mark boxes as “Fragile” and indicate which side should face up to ensure careful handling.

How To Pack Wine Glasses

Packing wine glasses requires careful handling to prevent breakage. Follow these steps to ensure safe transport:

  1. Prepare the Glass: Start by wrapping crumbled packing material around the stem of each wine glass for added support. Fill the inside of the glass with packing material to prevent movement.
  2. Wrap the Glass: Individually wrap each wine glass in packing material, similar to a burrito, ensuring all parts are cushioned.
  3. Choose the Right Box: Use dish packs designed with cardboard dividers for optimal protection. If unavailable, select small boxes fortified with extra tape.
  4. Arrange the Glasses: Line the bottom of the box with crumbled packing material. Place the wrapped wine glasses upright in rows. If space permits, create another layer, separated by additional packing material.
  5. Secure the Contents: Fill any empty spaces in the box with more crumbled packing material to keep the glasses stable during transit.
  6. Seal and Label: Tape the box securely and use red fragile tape or write “FRAGILE” on the exterior to alert handlers.

Dish pack specialty boxes come equipped with cardboard dividers for each glass and provide top of the line protection.

How to Pack Furniture for Moving

Moving can be an overwhelming experience, especially when it comes to packing large and bulky items such as furniture. Taking the time to properly prepare your furniture for transit can save you time and money by preventing damage during the move.

How To Pack a China Cabinet or Hutch

Moving a china cabinet requires careful preparation to ensure its safety during transit. Follow these steps for a smooth packing process:

  1. Empty the Cabinet: Begin by removing all items from the cabinet, including dinnerware, glassware, and any decor. Remove shelving and shelf pegs as well.
  2. Organize Small Parts: Place the shelf pegs in zip-type plastic bags to avoid losing them. For any removable parts, such as doors or decorative elements, remove them and wrap them individually for protection.
  3. Bundle Shelving: Gather the shelves and wrap them together tightly using blankets or bubble wrap. Secure them with tape or shrink wrap to prevent movement during the move.
  4. Wrap the Doors (Optional): For additional protection, consider removing the cabinet doors and wrapping them separately. This extra step can prevent scratches or breakage.
  5. Wrap the Entire Cabinet: Once all parts are organized, wrap the entire china cabinet in blankets or moving pads. Use shrink wrap to secure these layers tightly, which will provide cushioning and protect against dust and scratches.
  6. Final Checks: Before loading the cabinet onto the moving truck, double-check that all pieces are securely wrapped and that there are no loose parts.

Wrap large pieces of furniture all the way around with blankets, moving pads, or rugs and then shrink wrap around to secure the blankets on.

How To Pack a TV Stand

By following these steps, you can ensure your TV stand arrives at your new home safely and intact.

  1. Empty the TV Stand: Start by removing all items from the stand, including electronics, shelving, and shelf pegs. Place shelf pegs in a zip-type plastic bag for easy organization.
  2. Bundle Shelving: Gather the shelves and wrap them tightly with blankets or bubble wrap. Secure the bundle using tape or shrink wrap to prevent any movement during transport.
  3. Separate Door Protection: If your TV stand has doors, consider wrapping them separately for added protection. Use padding to cushion the edges.
  4. Final Wrap: Once everything is securely bundled, wrap the entire TV stand in blankets and additional shrink wrap for optimal protection during the move.

How To Pack A Dresser

Following these steps will help ensure your dresser arrives safely at your new home.

  1. Check Company Requirements: Verify if your moving company requires you to empty the dresser. If not specified, remove items that might rattle during transit.
  2. Detach Mirror & Accessories: Carefully remove any mirrors or detachable parts. Wrap these separately in moving blankets and secure them with shrink wrap to prevent damage.
  3. Secure Hardware: Place any screws or hardware in a plastic zip-lock bag. Tape or shrink wrap the bag to a secure location on the dresser to avoid loss.
  4. Wrap the Dresser: Use blankets, moving pads, or rugs to completely wrap the dresser. Ensure that all surfaces are protected.
  5. Finalize with Shrink Wrap: Once wrapped, use shrink wrap around the entire piece for added stability and protection during the move.

How To Pack A Nightstand

  1. Empty Drawers: Remove all items from the drawers, especially fragile or loose objects.
  2. Check Moving Company Policy: Confirm if your moving company requires you to empty the nightstand or if you can leave items inside.
  3. Secure Small Items: Take out any items that could rattle around and cause damage during transit.
  4. Wrap the Nightstand: Use a blanket, moving pad, or rug to cover the entire piece securely.
  5. Use Shrink Wrap: After wrapping, apply shrink wrap to hold everything in place and protect it from dirt and moisture.
  6. Label the Package: If needed, mark the wrapped nightstand for easy identification at the new location.

How To Pack A Bed Frame

  1. Remove Bedding: Take off the mattress and box spring.
  2. Disassemble Frame: Unscrew and detach the headboard, footboard, and sideboards.
  3. Wooden Frames:
    • Wrap each piece individually with blankets, moving pads, or rugs.
    • Bundle same-size pieces together and secure with shrink wrap.
  4. Metal Frames:
    • Cover all parts with a blanket.
    • Use shrink wrap to secure them together.
  5. Secure Hardware: Place all screws and small parts in a plastic zip lock bag and tape it to a frame piece for easy access.

How to Pack A Couch or Sofa

  1. Cushion Options:
    • Leave cushions on the couch and wrap together.
    • Pack cushions separately in a sturdy box.
  2. Leg Removal:
    • If necessary, remove the legs.
    • Place legs in a large zip-lock bag and tape it to the couch for easy access.
  3. Protective Covers:
    • Use plastic couch covers for added protection.
    • Simply cover the couch and secure with tape.
  4. Wrapping Alternatives:
    • Wrap the couch with blankets, moving pads, or old sheets.
    • Use shrink wrap to secure everything for extra stability.

How To Pack An Ottoman

  1. Gather Supplies:
    • Moving blanket or pad 
    • Shrink wrap or packing tape
  2. Wrap the Ottoman:
    • Lay the moving blanket or pad flat. 
    • Place the ottoman in the center.
  3. Secure the Blanket:
    • Fold the blanket or pad around the ottoman completely. 
    • Ensure all sides are covered to prevent scratches.
  4. Apply Shrink Wrap:
    • Start at one end and wrap shrink wrap tightly around the blanket. 
    • Make several passes to secure the blanket in place.

How To Pack A Sectional

  1. Cushion Management: Decide whether to leave cushions on the sectional or pack them separately in a box for protection. 
  2. Disassembly: Disconnect the sectional into separate pieces; remove legs if applicable. 
  3. Organize Hardware: Store legs and hardware in a large zip-lock bag; tape it securely to the sectional for easy access. 
  4. Wrapping: Wrap each piece of the sectional in moving blankets or pads for cushioning. 
  5. Secure with Shrink Wrap: Use shrink wrap to hold the blankets in place, ensuring your sectional is protected during transport.

How To Pack A Mattress

  1. Use Mattress Bags:
    • Slide the bag over one end and pull it down to cover the entire mattress. 
    • Fold and secure the cover at the end with tape. 
    • Remember to cover your box spring as well!
  2. Alternative Covers:
    • Utilize old sheets for extra protection. 
    • Place one sheet on one side, flip the mattress, and cover the other side with a second sheet.
  3. For Flimsy or Foam Mattresses:
    • Roll or fold the mattress like a taco for easier transport. 
    • Secure it with ties or tape, ensuring you’ve put on the mattress covers first.

How to Pack a Clothing for Moving

  1. Wardrobe Boxes: Ideal for protecting your clothes; they come with a hang bar for easy transfer of hanging clothes.
  2. Regular Boxes: If wardrobe boxes aren’t an option, use sturdy medium-sized boxes. Leave clothes on hangers or fold them neatly, securing with extra tape.
  3. Trash Bags: A simple solution for hanging clothes—just poke a hole in the bottom for the hanger, and tie the top to keep them secure.
  4. Vacuum Seal Bags: Perfect for bulky items like jackets and blankets; they save space and keep your clothing protected during the move.
  5. Label Boxes: Don’t forget to label your boxes to easily find your clothes when unpacking!

How To Pack Coats and Jackets

  1. Use Wardrobe Boxes: These large boxes feature a built-in hanger bar, allowing you to hang jackets and coats directly from your closet for easy transport. 
  2. Vacuum Seal Bags: To save space, consider using vacuum seal bags. They compress your outerwear, making them easier to store and move. 
  3. Garment Bags: Another option for packing is garment bags, which protect your jackets and coats during transit. 
  4. Extra Protection: For added safety, place the garment bag inside a wardrobe box to shield your items from dust and damage. 
  5. Labeling: Don’t forget to label your boxes clearly to make unpacking a breeze!

How To Pack Appliances For Moving

  • How to pack a lamp shade for moving.
    • Lamp shades are fragile and should always be packed by themself. Remove the lamp shade from the base. (See how to pack a lamp for how to pack the base).
    • Pack the lamp shade in a box that it can fit into comfortably and has at least two inches of room on any side. Layer the bottom with non printed packing paper or linens and put the lamp shade in upside down.
    • Fill the empty space in the box with more packing material so the lamp shade stays secure.
    • Tape the box, label, and use red fragile tape or write FRAGILE on the box.
  • How to pack a refrigerator for moving.
    • Empty the contents of the refrigerator and clean surfaces. Remove shelves and anything that will move around inside and pack those separate. You can wrap them in bubble wrap or packing paper and put them in a box.
    • Be sure to properly defrost the refrigerator to let all of the moisture evaporate and make sure it’s completely dry or else it can grow mildew.
    • It is also a good idea to empty the evaporator pan and make sure it is clean and dry before transport.
    • You can secure the doors with painters tape or a moving strap. Wrap the refrigerator in blankets or moving pads and shrink wrap the entire thing to secure it.
  • How to pack a washing machine for moving.
    • Disconnect the water from the valve behind the washer and the power cord. Disconnect the water intake hose and drain hose, have a bucket handy to drain any water still in the hoses.
    • Leave the washer door open and let air dry for at least 24 hours. If any moisture is left in it can grow mildew. Clean the washer surface or any dirt, dust or debris.
    • Secure the drum of the washer with the shipping bolts that came with it. If you don’t have the shipping bolts you can try and secure the drum by wedging foam or blankets between the drum and the casing, although, the shipping bolts are strongly recommended.
    • Wrap the unit with blankets or moving pads and use a movers strap or shrink wrap to secure.
  • How to pack a dryer for moving.
    • Use caution when dealing with gas appliances and if you’re not sure hire a professional.
    • If you have a gas dryer shut off the gas supply valve in the back of the dryer. Disconnect the gas supply hose and vent hose.
    • Unplug the dryer. Secure the drum with the shipping bolts that came with it. If you don’t have the shipping bolts you can try and secure the drum by wedging foam or blankets between the drum and the casing, although, the shipping bolts are strongly recommended.
    • Wrap the unit with blankets or moving pads and use a movers strap or shrink wrap to secure.
  • How to pack a microwave for moving.
    • Unplug the microwave and secure the cord with a rubber band or tie.
    • Remove the glass dish and any other parts. Clean and completely dry the parts, wrap in bubble wrap or packing paper, and pack separately in a box.
    • Electronics are always best packed in its original box, but if you don’t have that use the smallest box it can fit into comfortably and line the box with packing material. Fill any empty spaces around the microwave with packing material.
    • Tape the box, label, and use red fragile tape or write FRAGILE on the box.

How to Pack Artwork for Moving

  • How to pack framed artwork for moving.
    • Use painters tape to tape an X on the glass surface to support the glass and to keep it from shattering if it breaks.
    • Wrap the entire piece in bubble wrap or packing paper and secure with tape.
    • Smaller piece can be placed in sturdy boxes in rows with like size pieces. For larger pieces you can purchase mirror/picture boxes which come in large convenient sizes and corner bumpers for stabilization.
    • Fill any empty space in the box around the pieces with packing material.
    • Tape the box, label, and use red fragile tape or write FRAGILE on the box.

Wrap framed artwork individually with bubble wrap or packing paper.

  • How to pack oil paintings for moving.
    • Oil paintings need protection from abrasion, light, extreme temperatures, and moisture. We recommend mirror/picture boxes which come in many convenient sizes.
    • Oil from the painting can be transferred to surfaces that touch them and for this reason we use Glassine paper or wax paper to wrap the painting first.
    • Next, you can wrap in bubble wrap or cushioning foam. Carefully tape it around or use shrink wrap.
    • Most mirror/picture box kits include foam bumpers to keep the paintings from moving around in the box. These are handy, but use caution if they rub too hard or they are too tight.
    • Insert painting into the box, tape and label. Remember to write FRAGILE!
    • According to the University of Delaware, the ideal temperature to store your art is between 64 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit and the ideal humidity level for art storage is between 40% and 55%. Any extreme fluctuations from these and your art may be at risk.
  • How to pack a vase for moving.
    • Clean and completely dry the vase.
    • Stuff the inside with packing paper and wrap the entire vase starting at the top with bubble wrap or cushioning foam. Secure with tape or shrink wrap
    • Vases are strongest when packed standing upright. Find a box it can fit into comfortably. Line the box with crumpled packing paper and fill in all sides of the vase. It’s best to pack the vase in its own box however if packing with other items make sure to distribute the weight of the box evenly and fill any empty space with packing material so nothing moves around.
    • Tape the box, label, and use red fragile tape or write FRAGILE on the box.

How to Pack Electronics for Moving

  • How to pack a computer for moving.
    • Backup and important files or photos before you transport a computer.
    • A computer is always best packed in its original packaging. If you do not have the original box find a sturdy box that will fit your computer, double tape the bottom and line it with crumpled packing paper.
    • Disconnect all devices and wires. Put any loose items in a large plastic zip type bag and pack it in the same box as the computer.
    • Wrap the monitor with bubble wrap and add some packing paper or bubble wrap around the base area for support.
    • The tower and monitor of a computer are best packed standing upright if possible. Pack them in your paper lined box, stuffing crumbled packing paper in any empty spaces. Use a separate box for the monitor if needed. Pack with paper generously, the goal is to reduce movement and absorb shock.
    • Tape the box, label, and remember to write FRAGILE.
  • How to pack a flat screen tv for moving.
    • Remove tv from its wall mount or remove the tv stand and pack separately.
    • Flat screen tvs are best packed in their original box when available. Your second best option are tv moving boxes which come in large convenient sizes and have foam bumpers to absorb shock, and keep the tv stable.
    • You can wrap around the tv screen with bubble wrap before boxing. After boxing fill any empty space in the box with crumbled packing paper.
    • Tape, label, and write FRAGILE on the box.
  • How to pack a PlayStation for moving.
    • Gaming consoles are always best packed in their original packaging. If that is not available consider purchasing a gaming console carrying case which is specifically made to protect gaming consoles while traveling.
    • If you don’t have the original box or carrying case you can use a small study box with at least 2 inches of space between the box and all sides of the console.
    • Line all sides and bottom of the box with bubble wrap or crumpled packing paper.
    • Disconnect all accessories and cords from the console itself. Wrap any controllers individually in some packing material. Wrap the entire console in the packing material as well.
    • Put the console in the box and if there is room you can put the accessories and the cords in the same box. If needed prepare a second box for the accessories.
    • Fill any empty space in the box with crumpled packing paper to minimize movement and absorb shock.
    • Tape, label, and write FRAGILE on the box.
  • How to pack an Xbox for moving.
    • See how to pack a PlayStation.

How to Pack Accessories for Moving

  • How to pack necklaces for moving.
    • The best way to pack necklaces for moving is with a travel jewelry organizer. They are made specifically to transport jewelry and keep everything pristine.
    • Another option is using the straw or inside of a toilet paper roll method. With this method you string the necklaces through the straws or paper rolls and clasp them so that they don’t tangle.
    • You can put the rolls or straws with the necklaces into large zip type plastic bags and pack them in small boxes lined with packing paper or bubble wrap.
    • Fill any empty space in the box with packing paper and tape the box.
    • Label and remember to write FRAGILE. If it’s going on the moving container, and not with you, consider labeling the box with something less valuable like toiletries to deter theft.
  • How to pack shoes for moving.
    • Nice pairs of shoes should be packed in their original box whenever possible. If packing them with other items you can purchase shoe bags to protect them from being damaged.
    • Everyday shoes can be stuffed with socks, rags, or packing paper to prevent crushing and packed in a sturdy medium or small box.
    • Don’t make the box too heavy and remember to put the heavier items on the bottom.
    • Tape and label the box.
  • How to pack watches for moving.
    • Watches are best packed in its original case when available. You want to protect the watch from abrasion and moisture.
    • If you don’t have the original case you can roll some bubble wrap or packing paper in a ball and put in the wristband and then wrap the entire watch in bubble wrap. Pack in a small box lined with crumbled packing paper.
    • Fill any empty space in the box with crumpled packing paper.
    • Tape the box, label, and use red fragile tape or write FRAGILE on the box.
    • If the watches are going on the moving truck you can label them something not valuable such as toiletries to deter theft.
  • How to pack belts for moving.
    • You can roll belts into a spiral and secure with rubber bands or hair ties. Use small packing paper lined boxes. Fill any empty space in the box with crumpled packing paper, tape and label.
    • You can also hang belts on belt hangers or regular hangers and hang them in wardrobe boxes if you have them.
  • How to pack books for moving.
    • You can buy special book boxes, which are thicker than traditional boxes so that they can hold the extra weight of the books.
    • If you don’t have book boxes you can use regular small boxes and secure them with an extra layer of tape at the bottom.
    • Pack the books flat or upright to protect the spine and pack them evenly to prevent shifting in the box.
    • Never pack books on the spine or fore-edge down because it can damage the books.

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