- When full, no carton should weigh more than 23 kg or 50 lbs. or be so large it will obstruct your view when being carried.
- Do not use garbage bags for packing. They tear easily and offer no protection.
- Cushion cartons with crushed newsprint at the bottom, between layers, at the top and in all empty spaces.
- Heavier items should be placed in the bottom of cartons with lighter and the most fragile items at the top.
- Wrap each fragile item separately.
- Very small items – e.g. salt and pepper shakers, stoppers, knicknacks, should be wrapped in colourful tissue and packed in smaller boxes so they do not get lost.
- Do not over or underfill cartons – the tops should close flat with nothing sticking out. Bulging and underfilled cartons are subject to damage when other cartons are stacked on top of them.
- Seal all cartons with strong tape.
- Label every carton on the top and sides – include name, contents and room. You may wish to keep a corresponding detailed list of contents in a notebook for your reference at destination.
- Use masking tape to attach small pieces and screws to where they belong. When removing kitchen racks from the walls, keep the screws with them – you will have to re-use the same screws at destination. You may wish to place such things in a carton marked as a “set-up carton” for this purpose.
- If it is necessary to pack a liquid, such as a medical prescription, fasten and tape the lid securely, seal into a plastic bag and place upright in a carton to prevent spilling.
- Never leave heavy, breakable, hard items in drawers. Best practice is to remove all items from drawers and pack in cartons, including clothes and linens. For safe transportation the contents of drawers, chests, dressers, trunks etc., should be packed into cartons.
- For safe transportation the contents within filling cabinets should be packed into cartons.
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