Packing Supplies and Solutions

Packing up your delicate items can be daunting when it comes to moving. You want to make sure that your picture frames and other breakable items are securely cushioned enough that they will make it from one location to another. Even if you’re just storing your pictures and frames, you want to make sure that they are kept in a safe place where they won’t be damaged by different temperatures or other heavy boxes placed on them. There are five different types of shipping supplies that are a necessity when it comes to packing your delicate items. They are a thick blanket, mirror box, packing tape, packing paper and bubble wrap. By following the steps below, you can ensure that your most precious treasures will be kept safe, secure and easily accessed.

You will want to get a thick blanket and lay it down on a flat, dry surface. Lay your picture frame in the middle of the blanket and wrap up each end until there is sufficient padding to protect your frame. You can also use a mirror box to place the picture frame in. They usually sell them at supply stores like PackagingSupplies.com. Make sure that the box is slightly bigger than the frame. You can store smaller picture frames in the box as well, you will just need to make sure that you individually wrap each frame very well. You can also wrap your picture frames with packing paper. Make sure that you wrap the frame several times to create a fairly good cushion and secure with packing tape. After you’ve wrapped it with wrapping paper, use the bubble wrap to cover the picture with even more protection. This will prevent it from bouncing and rubbing on other items. When you go to place your pictures in a bigger box, place some wadded-up packing paper in the bottom of the box. Lay your frames in the box and fill any extra space with packing paper. Make sure that they can’t easily move around in the box and if the box gets bounced by the moving truck, your frames aren’t going to take a beating. Finally, tape the box shut and mark it as “FRAGILE” in large letters. This will let whoever is moving the box know that they should be very careful.

If you find yourself pressed for time and aren’t able to take all of the necessary steps to make sure your picture frames are kept safe for travel, you can schedule a pick-up. You just simply let them know that you’re storing fragile items and they will do the rest of the job for you. They will arrive at your house with the necessary tools and items to wrap each picture frame. They will intentionally transport it to a secure temperature-controlled storage facility that will keep them safe. In addition to storage, they also create an online photo catalog so you can view your inventory and remember what you have in storage.

If you are planning on moving from one house to another, chances are you will need packaging supplies. Moving from a home wholesale is big work, even for someone who does not possess a lot of items. After all, unless some things are going to be thrown away, everything will have to be packaged properly and efficiently to be able to transport it.

Before deciding on packaging, the first thing that needs to be done is to decide what exactly is staying and what will be going. This may require multiple walks around with a note pad. Once all things that are going have been listed, then it will be time to start making lists according to size and weight. This will be the most important determining factor when deciding what kind of packaging will be required. If there are any fragile items, then they will need their own packaging material.

The most common packaging material are boxes. The good news is that getting your hands on them is relatively easy. There are many ways to get them and one of the most popular ways to get your hands on some will be to ask the store you regularly visit. Furniture stores is a great place for boxes too, especially the big kind. Usually, they will be more than happy to part with a bunch of them, for free! Sometimes friends are also a good source for used boxes. Boxes come in many different sizes but the most common ones are the corrugated boxes. Even if you have to purchase a few they tend to be cheap, and they come in several different sizes.

When doing the packaging, try to put the same type of item in each box as much as possible. For example, a box used to transport books should be only or mostly contain books. This way, the space within the box can be used at maximum efficiency. If fragile material is being shipped, then bubble wrap and packing peanuts will be needed. Tape will also be needed, and it is always best to go with good quality tape. You do not want something that will break, especially when transporting fragile things.

Some people like packing according to each room. So, for example, pack the living room stuff and keep them together, then bedroom items and so on and so forth. This will make keeping track of things a lot more efficient and less time-consuming. If a rented truck is being used, plan carefully what is going on the truck. As with packing the boxes, the truck also needs to be filled properly to maximize efficiency.

Then there is the matter of the new place you are moving into. All the things you own may fit well in the present house, but that won’t necessarily be the case in the new place. If possible, take a look at the new place and figure out where things will go. If there are any doubts about things not fitting where they are supposed to, then putting them in temporary storage will need to be considered.

In order to ship something, you need many different size boxes depending on the object. If you are shipping a present, clothing is minimal weight. If you are shipping books, the weight is heavier. Office supplies demands a big box while envelopes can be shipped in a smaller box that fits them all. You need tape to tape the box shut. Creative shipping ideas can be found at the post office with many different package sizes. Small envelopes can work for earrings. Bubble wrap is for fragile packages. Shrink wrap can also be used for glass packages.

If you are shipping a technical device, you need to use plenty of plastic to wrap it in. Boxes are the key to your success in shipping a technical device. Envelopes can fit phone chargers very well. Laptops need to be wrapped in plastic and put into a box so that it ships safely. Desktops require a big box to be put in. When you ship delicate technology like headphones, it needs to be wrapped in bubble wrap. There are many kinds of protective paper that you can wrap your supplies in. Shipping envelopes come in many shapes and sizes from small, medium and large.

You need labels to label your box while as well you need tape to shut the envelope or box. Bubble wrap can come in a roll or as inflatable packaging. Film is another way to wrap objects. Stretch wrap covers your package completely. CDs and DVDs can be put in DVD packaging such as jewel cases, which are then placed in bubble wrap and a big envelope. When you ship your merchandise in bubble wrap it protects the merchandise from damage during shipping and handling. For taping an item sealed in an envelope, you can use tape such as gummed tape or packaging tape. Duct tape is another form of tape that can be used to ship a package.

A cardboard box is often the way many items are shipped to a customer. To ship arts and crafts, a small envelope can fit the design. Many different size boxes are available in the case of clothing or t-shirts. Shoes demand a big box and to wrap it in bubble wrap. Manila envelopes serve to mail papers in or checks. Other envelopes serve to mail forms to customers. Bags can be good for clothing as well as books give or take the size of the package. A well-wrapped package needs to be sealed with a lot of tape.

The package has to be completely shut with tape. A box also has to be sealed shut with tape. Bubble and foam works to make sure the package doesn’t shift around inside the box. Computer equipment is quite fragile and requires a lot of bubble foam. Medical supplies need to be wrapped in bubble wrap give or take their level of possible fragility. It is easy to break technical equipment if it is not wrapped up properly. Lose fill works for making sure computer equipment doesn’t shift in place.

Shipping a package takes extra care to ensure it reaches the destination without any issues, especially if it contains items that could be damaged in shipping. This applies whether it is a company shipping an item or a person using a shipping service or the postal mail. The good thing is there are many items that can be used to protect the items inside of a packing box.

Then there are Packaging Supplies that are used when moving to protect household items that may be broken in transport. Some packing materials for packages can be used, but in other cases, it takes extra care. Then there are special items whether shipping or moving that will require special packing material to ensure it is safe and to avoid damage from the material used.

The materials made to pack items whether household moving or sending a gift to someone include:

• Air Bubble Wrap: This is a clear plastic that is a double sheet with pockets of air in circular bubbles. It can protect glass and other items during shipping to avoid breakage and keep the surface safe from scratches. This is a material that is good for odd shaped items since it can be wrapped in any shape.
• Polyethylene Foam: This is a thin foam type of packaging material that can be used for both moving and sending packages. It can be used to absorb shock between dishes and other breakables in household moving and to wrap breakable items or flat items such as a computer monitor for shipping.
• Air Pillows: These are pillows made of thin plastic wrap filled with air to insulate the item and fill space within the packing box. It can be used to secure items wrapped with bubble wrap and polyethylene foam sheets.
• Styrofoam Peanuts: These are a peanut shaped foam that can be used to fill the empty spaces in boxes to absorb shock during transport and to keep objects in the packing box from moving around.
• Styrofoam Sheets: Sheets of foam are often used to line a packing box to keep the items inside safe and can be used directly on flat objects to keep them safe from breaking.
• Acid-Free Archival Paper: This is a type of tissue paper, which is acid-free and used for packing artwork and pictures since other types of Packaging Supplies could cause damage to these items. After the acid-free paper is used then bubble wrap or polyethylene foam sheets can be used for added protection. Large artwork or pictures sheets of Styrofoam sheets may provide more added protection.

These items cover packing boxes to keep the contents secure and the different uses. They can be purchased locally or on the internet at a variety of online stores and are essential whether the package is being shipped or it will be transported during a move. The other thing that will be necessary is packing tape to secure the packing supplies that are used to protect the contents of the package. Whether using polyethylene foam sheets or bubble wrap it will need to be secured around the objects being packed to keep the material in place. The only exception is when moving a household and using polyethylene foam sheets between dishes, each dish will not need the sheet secured if piling the next dish on top. The other hint for packing is to place protective peanuts, airbags or bubble wrap on the bottom of the box prior to placing the items in the box.

Knowing how and why to pack are essential ingredients that must always accompany your plans during packing. Before having an idea of putting something inside your suitcase, you need to look out for the weather and if possible predict your destination weather pattern. The prediction will give you an idea about the kind of clothes you will need to pack and any space for your shipping supplies. When you set off to a tropical destination, you will anticipate a hot and a sunny atmosphere which calls for simple dresses, while warmer attire will suit you for your nights there.

Make a list of Items
Making a list requires a proper plan with your destined place in mind while sorting out whatever you need to wear for all your days there. You need to factor in pieces that are mix and match alongside other extra pairs of undergarments or even extra pair socks whenever you need. After sorting out these pieces, you can write them down on a book (preferably) and then commit to ticking each item as you place inside your suitcase. As a point of concern, you also need to set aside an extra set of clothing items just in case your luggage gets misplaced; you can always find a solution.

Pack from Bottoms Coming Up
Shoes and other bulky items such handbags should be positioned the very bottom. In case you are carrying a piece, make sure that your heaviest bits are placed next to the hinge just next to the lid. For a luggage piece that is on the wheel, ensure that the big pieces are at the bottom and always above the wheels. After placing the heavy bits, you can use the spaces between them to pack your items such as undergarments, bathing suits, and socks.

Fold Them Up
It is always a misleading idea that when you roll your clothes, they can always fit into your suitcase. In the real sense, items that get folded nicely can fit the luggage and maximize the available space. Therefore, you need to preserve the first layer on top of the shoes for the thick fabrics such as woolen garments, khakis, sweaters, and others. As you are packing these items, leave a gap at the center of the suitcase for later use. If there are any spaces around the edges, you can use them for items such as an extra storybook or even your hairbrush

Your care products
Personal products and your other fragile items must be placed in some padded case. For this case, you can keep it at the center of the luggage where they are safe from spillage around the suitcase. In case you are flying, you need place liquids in a tightly packed container and in clear bag that is visible for inspection.

The Upper Layer
The upper layer requires minimal luggage due to weight issues. In this case, you can consider delicate and light fabrics like linen, silk or even cotton. Additionally, if you have more fragile items such as silky blouses or shirts, you can wrap them in a tissue paper and place them between the sturdy clothing to ensure they are safe from damage.

Final Thought
You need to carry your list of items as it will be helpful when unpacking your shipping supplies and even packing once your traveling days are over.

Step #1, Start Searching For A Mover As Soon As You Can

Affordable and high quality moving companies are often booked in advance. In order to book them for yourself, you should begin your search for a moving company as early as possible. Even if you cannot book a high quality and affordable moving company, you can still qualify for early booking discounts from other movers.

Starting your search early will also give you more choice. As you approach your moving date, some moving companies may be booked and unavailable. So start in advance, to get a possible discount and have more choice.

Step #2, Ask Your Friends, Family And Colleagues For A Recommendation

One of the best ways to know whether a moving company provides good service at a low price is by asking people you know. You will be surprised by how many people use moving services. Ask questions about the quality, price and professionalism. Personal recommendations are a very accurate way to find out what the service and price of a company really is.

Step #3, Look At Online Reviews

If you cannot find anyone with a recommendation for a moving company or want some additional feedback, then look at online reviews. Look at multiple customer reviews and scrutinize them carefully. Do not just look at one review and think that it reflects on the company a whole. You should also look at moving review sites. Examples include MyMovingReviews and the general review site, Yelp. You can also look at the Better Business Bureau score to get a feel for how good and reliable the company is.

Step #4, Get A Moving Estimate Done For Your Home

Over the phone or over the email estimates are notorious for being wrong and way of the mark. They are more of an approximation than a real estimate. If you want to get a real idea of how much a move will cost you, then get an estimate done. The benefits to getting an estimate done for your home is that the price will be much more accurate since the movers will actually see what needs to be moved. They will also calculate additional expenses such such as packaging supplies you may need. Another benefit to getting an estimate is that the price they quote you should not change dramatically if you do decide to use their service and buy packaging supplies from them.

Step #5, Comparison Shopping Applies To Movers As Well

As when you are purchasing any product or service, shop around and compare prices. Compare the different quotes or estimates you have got. Select the lowest ones or the ones that best fit your budget and needs. Then confirm and decide which one you will go with. Don’t just choose the first mover you come across. Comparison shop and you will save big.

Step #6, Look For Government Licensing And Association Membership

Movers that transport items across state lines or from one state to another need to have a USDOT (United State Department of Transportation) license. If you are moving to another state, make sure you have a mover with this kind of licensing. Most quality movers are also a member of the American Storage and Moving Association. While it is not mandatory to be a member of the association, it is a sign that the moving company is legit and meets certain minimum standards.

Step #7, Negotiate Your Way To A Lower Price

You can always try bargaining around with moving companies in an attempt to get them to lower their price. If you want to use one company, but their price is higher than another company, let them know of a competitor offering a lower price. If you have a budget that you cannot go over, then ask them if they are willing to knock their price down in order to gain your business.

The emotional response to moving is that of a wide array. Moving from one chapter to another is an exciting process. However, opening one chapter means closing another. So, individuals may have feelings of sadness while moving as well. Moving is also a daunting task especially if you are not familiar with the process. You do not know what to expect the first time. Moving out is more than just placing items in boxes. It can be time consuming and strenuous. Each time you relocate you will become more aware of what works best for you. If you are planning on moving out for the first time you may want to keep in mind some helpful tips about steps that may make the moving process easier.

1. Budgeting is Key to Relocation Success.

Living costs money. As a newbie in the financial world it is essential to maintain a comfortable budget. Budget necessary bills such as phone, car, insurance, etc., and make certain you can afford your typical lifestyle while paying for your new apartment. Life will become increasingly stressful without a budget available. Furthermore, you do not want to be evicted from your brand new location. This also includes budgeting for the move. Assess the amount of professional assistance you can afford, the amount of cost for shipping supplies, and the amount for rental trucks. Financial balance is key to success. Remember never to purchase any item or service you cannot afford.

2. Ensure a steady job.

If you are planning on living in a new apartment the only way to maintain ownership is to pay rent. You need money to pay rent. Therefore, you need a job. Finding a secure job is wise. A young professional may want to consider starting an entry level career that allows room for growth.

3. Finding the “right” place to live matters. 

When deciding to move out for the first time it is important to expend time and effort when searching for the best apartment that fits your needs. When selecting a location you may want to consider your likes, hobbies, and the proximity to your workplace.
You may also want to weigh the option of a roommate. Having a roommate makes a situation more affordable, and this may be helpful during your first apartment experience.

4. Employ moving professionals.

The moving process is stressful; hiring moving professionals would certainly eliminate a large degree of the packing process. Furthermore, professionals would likely save time in the moving process. If you can afford a professional it is suggested. Utilizing professional movers may eliminate a need for shipping supplies, rental trucks, and extra physical strain.

5.Seek your parents’ advice.

Mom and dad have likely relocated many times before. So, they would be able to help you navigate relocation with ease. Do not be apprehensive about seeking their advice.

6. Teach yourself good habits before relocation.

Start budgeting and cleaning prior to a move forming positive habits you will likely maintain once you are at your new place.

7. Make a cleaning schedule.

If you create a schedule you are more likely to stick with the activity. There is more accountability with a cleaning schedule.

8. Party!

Having a house party is a fun way to commemorate an occasion.