Why packing decides the day
On many local moves, the biggest variable on moving day isn't the furniture. It's the boxes. A house where everything is packed, sealed and labeled moves quickly. A house where the crew arrives to find half-packed rooms and open drawers moves slowly, and on an hourly move that costs real money. Packing is also where most breakage starts: a box that's too heavy, too light or badly cushioned is the box that gets damaged.
Full or partial packing
- Full packing. The moving company packs everything, usually the day before the move or on the morning of a small move. It costs more, but it's fast and consistent.
- Partial packing. The company packs the hard parts, such as the kitchen, glassware, artwork, mirrors, lamps and electronics, and you pack the easy ones: books, clothes, linens and toys.
- Self-packing. You pack everything. It's the cheapest option, but it takes longer than most people expect.
Materials
Moving companies use boxes in standard sizes, packing paper, bubble wrap, dish packs with cell dividers for glasses, wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes, mirror and picture cartons, and mattress bags. Packing materials are usually charged separately, either per item or as a package. Ask what's included, and whether unused boxes can be returned.
Fragile items
- Dishes and glasses. Wrapped individually and packed on edge in dish packs, with crushed paper top and bottom.
- Art and mirrors. Wrapped and packed in picture cartons or custom crates for valuable pieces.
- Lamps. Shades packed separately from bases.
- Electronics. In original boxes if you kept them, otherwise padded well; photograph the cable connections before unplugging.
Labeling
Every box should say which room it goes to and, ideally, what's in it. Mark fragile boxes clearly, and mark which way is up. A box marked "kitchen" lands in the kitchen; a box marked "misc" lands wherever there's space.
What you pack yourself
If you pack boxes yourself, the mover may be responsible only for the outside of the box, not for what's inside, unless the damage comes from mishandling. Ask how the mover handles damage to items you packed. That's a reason to have the company pack the most fragile and valuable things.
Unpacking
Some companies also unpack: emptying boxes, placing items on shelves and in cabinets, setting up beds and taking away paper and boxes. Full unpacking costs more but gets a kitchen working the same day. Partial unpacking, such as the kitchen and bedrooms only, is common.
Debris removal
Packing paper and empty boxes add up quickly. Ask whether the mover takes them away and whether there's a charge.
What not to pack in the truck
Medications, documents, keys, chargers, valuables and a change of clothes belong in a bag that travels with you. So do the things you'll need on the first night: bedding, toiletries, a few dishes and a kettle or coffee maker.
Questions to ask
- Do you offer full and partial packing, and what's the difference in price?
- How are materials charged, and can I return unused boxes?
- How do you pack dishes, art, mirrors and electronics?
- What are you responsible for in boxes I pack myself?
- Do you offer unpacking, and will you take away the boxes and paper?