The Ultimate Packaging Guide: How to Pack Like a Pro for Your Move
Moving home is more than just shifting boxes from A to B; it's about ensuring your life’s possessions arrive in the same condition they left. At Mr Reliable Removals, we’ve been helping families across London and the South East move since 2004, and we know that the secret to a stress-free move starts with the packing.
If you’ve opted for our Packing and Removals service, you can sit back and relax. But if you’re tackling the boxes yourself, here is our expert guide to packing like a professional.
1. Source High-Quality Materials
Don't rely on old supermarket crisps boxes. They aren't designed to stack and often collapse under pressure.
Double-Walled Boxes: Use these for heavy items like books and kitchenware to prevent the bottom from giving way.
Acid-Free Tissue Paper: Essential for wrapping delicate china and glassware without leaving marks.
Heavy-Duty Tape: Cheap tape loses its stickiness in cold or damp conditions. Invest in professional-grade packing tape.
2. The Golden Rule: Weight Distribution
A common mistake is filling large boxes with heavy items.
Small Boxes for Heavy Items: Books, records, and tinned goods should always go in smaller boxes.
Large Boxes for Light Items: Use your biggest boxes for pillows, duvets, and clothing.
The 20kg Limit: As a rule of thumb, if a box is too heavy for you to lift comfortably, it’s too heavy for the move.
3. Packing the Kitchen (The Hardest Room)
The kitchen is usually the most time-consuming room to pack due to the sheer volume of fragile items.
Plates on Their Side: Never stack plates flat on top of each other. Pack them vertically (like in a dishwasher) with plenty of bubble wrap or paper between them to absorb shocks.
Stemware: Wrap wine glasses individually and pack them "rim down" in cell-divided boxes.
The "First Night" Box: Pack a box with your kettle, tea, coffee, and a few mugs. You’ll thank yourself the moment you walk into your new home!
4. Labeling for Efficiency
Don’t just write "Kitchen" on a box.
Detail is Key: Write "Kitchen – Daily Plates/Bowls" or "Bedroom 1 – Winter Jumpers."
Label the Sides: When boxes are stacked in the van or your new hallway, you won't be able to see labels on the top. Label at least two sides of every box.
Ready to Make Your Move?
If the thought of packing is already giving you a headache, let us handle it. We offer full and partial packing services tailored to your needs, backed by 20 years of experience and over 1,400 five-star reviews.
Get a Free Quote Today or call us on 07940 878032 to discuss your move.
