PACKING

Proper packing is essential to a successful move.  Packing is an extremely important aspect of relocation and if you leave packing to the last minute you’re almost certain to regret it. There are plenty of boxes and containers specifically designed for packing all sorts of items from dishes to sports equipment. It’s wise to consider using these specially designed boxes or utilizing the help of a moving professional to do the packing for you. If you choose to pack it all up yourself though, be sure to wrap everything carefully and tightly and place lighter items on top of the heavier ones. It’s an invaluable idea to mark the outside of all boxes with a short list of their inner contents or the name of the room that is their final destination while doing your own packing.

We have a new packing guide in the works and will make it available to you soon.  So, as always, check back with us frequently!……

Below are a few suggestions if you decide to do the packing yourself, however please know that we will still be there to advise you and answer your questions:

• Get more strong packing boxes than you think you will need.
• Reinforce the bottom of each box with at least one strip of packing tape.
• Pack boxes firmly to prevent the contents from shifting during your move.
• Use clean, white crumpled up paper for padding.
• Separate all items with paper to prevent scratches.
• Place heavier items in the bottom of the box and lighter items on top.
• Use towels, linens, curtains, etc. to pad boxes of fragile items.
• Remove lids from ceramics and wrap each separately.
• Seal open bottles with tape before packing to avoid spills.
• Use an extra large box for lampshades and cushion them well.
• Remove bulbs before packing lamps.
• Put hardware from disassembled furniture together in plastic bag.
• Leave clothes in dresser drawers and hang clothes in wardrobe boxes.
• Wrap very small items in bright colored tissue so they won’t get lost.
• Place pictures in boxes between sheets and blankets for added protection.
• Plates and record albums should be packed on end vertically – not stacked.
• Remove bulbs before packing lamps.
• Make a master list of all household items and personal belongings.
• Number boxes when they are packed and sealed.
• Label each box and its room destination.
• Write the contents of numbered boxes on your master list.
• Pack room-by-room, keeping similar items together.

When moving and packing take these simple precautions to protect your appliances from damage during your move.

• Clean and dry washing machine. Disconnect and drain hoses.
• Unplug clothes dryer and clean the lint screen.
• Remove grease from the stove top/range/oven.
• Dry out refrigerator and freezer, especially those with an icemaker.
• Remove any glass trays from appliances. Pack them separately.
• Clean small appliances, fill empty space with paper and wrap separately.

Let me know your opinion and experiences.

80 years and still movin!

……Dan

What thoughts or experiences can you share with us?   Email us at dansblog@usantini.com

If we put your input on our website you will automatically receive a 10% discount on your move with U. Santini.  Just include your first name only, your city and state and a your valid email address.

Moving to a new home is stressful even when it is a well thought out and positive choice. There is much to plan and arrange, deadlines to meet and other people involved. We often find ourselves standing in empty rooms thinking, “What now?”

The first tip is for the moving process itself; to ensure that the move is easy and stress-free, so when you get to your lovely new home you can focus on the next twelve tips below.

Whether you are moving from city to city, to a new state, or internationally, let the professionals handle it. Call a full service moving company to neatly pack and handle your belongings. When hiring moving and packing companies check their reputation – do they have a reputation of integrity, security and on-time delivery? Professional movers & packers can offer ideas to assist you in your new home or apartment. Our knowledge comes from years of vast experience.

Now let’s talk about what to do in your new home.

1. First thing to do is to celebrate. People are often so busy with the move and with the gazillion things they need to do that they often forget to celebrate the moment. So the very first thing to do is to smile, celebrate a new home. Here’s from us at U. Santini: CONGRATULATIONS! We wish you the very best in your new home!
2. Call the new utility companies and service providers. Hopefully the service name has been transferred already but it is important to verify this. Ensure service is in your name to avoid potential liability. This also allows you to check what date the bills will come due, when the garbage is picked up and will prevent these from becoming delinquent.
3. Gather the family and put together an Emergency Action Plan. Walk through your new home and decide on escape routes in the event of fire, where to go when tornado, earthquake, or other natural disaster hits. Be specific and plan for weather that is common for your region.
4. Create a first aid and emergency kit. Include phone numbers for your new neighborhood police and fire departments as well as 911.
5. Locate off switches and circuit breakers. Show everyone in the household how to use them.
6. Check for smoke detectors and verify the batteries are charged. Test the detector. Do not go to bed without working smoke detectors in your new home. This will ensure your and your family’s safety.
7. Contact creditors, magazines and other involved parties. Give them your new address to avoid delays.
8. Conduct a deep cleaning of all surfaces. Even if the new place has been cleaned, many hands have touched surfaces and furniture.
9. Change the door locks. If you are renting, most landlords will allow this at your own expense. The peace of mind is well worth the cost.
10. Send your new contact address and telephone number to everyone on your personal contact list. Include a photo of your new home for friends and family.
11. Go grocery shopping and stock the refrigerator with easy-to-prepare foods such as sandwich fixings. This will come very handy in the first few days, as you are still getting used to the new house, where you keep everything, new neighborhood, etc.
12. Install window coverings if they are not already up. Privacy is important and this will help you avoid curious neighbors or potential thieves to eavesdrop on you.

With these things done, you can relax a bit and enjoy arranging your new place to suit your unique style.
The right movers are more than just transporters. Whether you are looking for a long distance moving company, packing services, apartment moving companies or just full service moving, we are your first and only stop. Call today for a personal consultation. We are the preeminent movers in Brooklyn because we deliver and we care. Our reputation of over 80 years speaks for itself.