Cardboard boxes are great for some items, but using plastic containers can be a great option for a lot of your items.  What’s great about plastic containers is that they are reusable, not more hassle of purchasing boxes every time you move.  Second, they are easy to stack!  Lastly, paper products can absorb moisture over time, and plastic is a great alternative.

When storing a refrigerator or freezer, it's important to ensure that it's thoroughly dry and that the door is left slightly open. You can store some goods inside these appliances as well, but make sure to take note of anything you place inside. Additionally, you can stack boxes on top of stoves, refrigerators, and freezers, but prior to packing them, be sure that the stoves and cooking equipment are clean and dry.

When packing glassware, it is important to take certain precautions to prevent breakage during transportation. Begin by placing a layer of padding at the bottom and top of each box that will contain glass items. Each individual glass item should be wrapped carefully. Nest cups and bowls together, and stand plates, saucers, and platters on their edge. Wrapped glasses should be placed near the top of the box, and any open spaces should be filled with packing paper to ensure that the items do not shift during transportation. Make sure to label all boxes containing glassware and avoid placing heavy items on top of them. Read our blog post more on packing dishes and fragile items.

When packing, it's important to use small boxes for heavy items such as books and tools. Make sure to limit the weight of all cartons to 30 lbs. or less for easier handling. Avoid stacking fragile items on top of other items or boxes as this increases the risk of breakage. Additionally, do not store heavy items higher up as it may cause boxes underneath to give out and result in heavy items falling.

When storing your furniture, it is best to break it down as much as possible.  This means taking the legs off the tables and breaking down headboards.  This will also help you store your furniture vertically and will give you more space.  You can use old blankets, sheets, or other furniture covers to help keep your furniture from being scratched or getting dusty.

When packing books, it's important to keep them flat to protect the spines. Avoid placing boxes directly on concrete floors, as this may lead to moisture absorption. Instead, use pallets or skids. Fill all empty pockets in each box using packing material. To prevent damage, don't pack fragile items in the same box as books. Also, avoid overloading boxes.