If you plan to pack yourself..... Some helpful information From M & E Transportation
If you decide to do the packing yourself, you automatically assume a major portion of the responsibility for the success of the move - including that of having everything properly packed and ready for loading when the moving van arrives. All packing must be completed by the evening before moving day...only the things you will need that night and the next morning should be left for last minute packing. Allow yourself several weeks to complete the packing.
In addition, your packing will be expected to meet specific standards. This means complying with the principles of good packing as outlined here, as well as following the suggestions relative to items that should not be included in the shipment. Your van personnel will inspect each box to make sure that articles are properly packed prior to loading. If it is determined that your cartons are susceptible to damage, the driver may refuse to load those boxes until they are re-packed or removed from the shipment. There is, of course, a charge for packing services performed by Stevens.
Good packing means:
Getting Ready Prepare a convenient place to work and gather all packing materials in one location. If there is a spare room available, consider setting it up as your packing headquarters.
A large table covered with a heavy blanket, or mattress pad makes a good, firm work surface. It may be helpful to have a second table nearby for soon to be packed items.
You will need packing cartons, newsprint (unprinted newspaper for wrapping), bubble wrap, tissue paper, packing tape, a felt marker,scissors sand newspapers. The printed newspaper should be used for outer wrapping or cushioning only. The ink always rubs off, and can become embedded in your dishware. When using newspaper, be sure to wash your hands frequently to avoid rubbing the ink on the items you handle.
Have a pencil and notebook handy, and make a list of the boxes as you pack them.
What types of cartons should you use?The boxes you use to pack your household goods are important in more way than one. Make sure the cartons you use are suitable for transporting your goods in order to minimize damage. Also ensure that you are not packing boxes too heavy as they can break open, or too light as they can crush as they are stacked in the moving van. Use only durable cartons constructed for the packaging of items. You may purchase your cartons from us. M & E Transportation can review your needs and deliver appropriate cartons to your home.
1.5 cubic foot cartons (the book or small carton)
This is the smallest of the general-purpose containers. As a rule of thumb, the smallest and heaviest items are generally packed in the 1.5 cubic foot carton. Such items would include:
3.0 cubic foot carton (medium carton)
This is the workhorse carton. Smaller and heavier items are usually packed in these containers. Some examples are:
4.5 cubic foot carton
As the size of the container increases, the weight of the individual items going into the container should decrease. This carton is another of the workhorse cartons. This carton should be considered for the following:
6.0 or 6.5 cubic foot carton (Large carton)
This is the largest of the general-purpose cartons. This carton should only be considered for the lightest and bulkiest items such as:
Dishpack (Barrel or Dish Barrel)
This is the safest of all the cartons because of its extra-strength, multi-layer construction. All breakable kitchenware, china and crystal should be packed in these cartons for safety. Occasionally, lamp bases, small antiques and brick-a-brac are also packed in dishpacks.
Mattress Carton
Just as mattresses and box springs come in different sizes, so do the cartons for shipping them in. Standard sizes are crib, twin, double, queen and king. Other than the beds in a residence, be aware, that some waterbeds, futons and sleep sofas may also require cartons for shipping. For king size beds, double check that the box springs are either king size or two singles.
Mirror Carton As with mattress cartons, mirror cartons come in a number of sizes. Many mirror cartons pieces can be fitted together to offer a great deal of flexibility for such items as: pictures, mirrors or small glass table tops.
Wardrobe CartonsThese are the largest of the standard cartons and will either be stand up or lay-down (usually used for international). The cartons are constructed in such a manner that hanging clothes will remain hanging during the move. You may want to consider the wardrobe for shipping drapes and curtains (neatly folded and on hangers) to help reduce wrinkling during shipment.
OtherThere are specialized cartons for very specific needs, such as golf club cartons, bicycle cartons, grandfather clock boxes and crates. The ultimate specialty carton is a crate, which is for extremely fragile pieces, such as marble and glass. These cartons are built to order and need to be ordered prior to your move. Ask your representative for details.
Crating sometimes you may have a special item that requires a custom crate for added protection. M & E Transportation has the ability to design and build one for your specific needs. This is done for a small fee.
So let's get started...A Checklist of the Basics
Ready, Set, Pack!
China & Glassware Professional packers use a dish pack carton for china and glassware. Place plenty of cushioning material in bottom of carton. Then wrap each piece individually using several sheets of paper. Start from the corner, wrapping diagonally, continuously tucking in overlapping edges. After wrapping each piece individually, then wrap four to six in a bundle with a double layer of newspaper. Place these bundled items in the carton in a row, standing them on edge.
The larger china and glass plates, platters, and other flat pieces are excellent as the lowest layer in the box. Smaller plates, saucers and shallow bowls could make up a second layer. Wrap and pack in the same way as larger items, making sure to rest them in the box upright, using sufficient cushioning.
Surround each bundle with crushed paper, being careful to leave no unfilled spaces. Add two or three inches of crushed paper on top of the bundles to protect rims and make a level base for the next tier. Always remember, the heavier pieces go on the bottom!
Stand shallow bowls on edge in the carton and deep ones (such as mixing bowls) nested two or three together, upside down on their top rims.
Wrap sugar bowl lids in tissue, turning them upside down on the bowl before wrapping them together. Place sugar bowls, pitchers and similar pieces upright in the carton, being careful to cushion firmly. Complete the layer as for plates.
Cups and glassware should be wrapped in a double layer of paper and placed upside down on rims in a row on an upper layer within the box with all the handles facing upward in the same direction.
Silverware Loose flatware may be wrapped either individually or in sets, in clear plastic or tissue. If the silverware is in a chest, you still may want to wrap the pieces individually and replace in the chest, or fill in all empty spaces in the chest with tissue paper or paper toweling. Silverplate or Sterling SilverSince air causes silver to tarnish, all silver pieces should be c completely enclosed in fresh, clean tissue paper or plastic wrap. Holloware, including bowls, tea sets and serving dishes, should be carefully wrapped as fragile items and packed the same as china. Books Because books are heavy, be sure to use small cartons. Pack on edge, alternating bound edge to open edge. Pack books of same general size together.
Lamps After removing the light bulb, wrap the base, harp and bulb separately, in newsprint, (never use newspaper) and place together in a carton, filling spaces with crushed paper. Carefully wrap each shade in three or four sheets of fresh tissue paper, a pillowcase or large lightweight towel. More than one lamp or shade can be packed in a carton if properly protected. Large, Tiffany-style lamp shades and chandeliers should be crated by Stevens Worldwide Van Lines. Glass Table Tops, Marble Slabs, Mirrors, Paintings, etc.Leave it to the professionals. It is best to consult with your move coordinator about obtaining custom made cartons or crates for these types of items. All are easily damaged. Glass may shatter; marble slabs can crack at veins. Paper should never be permitted to touch the surface of an oil painting. Clothing Footwear may be left in shoe boxes and placed into large cartons. Or, wrap each shoe individually, then in pairs. Footwear should be cushioned to avoid damage occurring to high heels or ornaments. Do not pack heavy items on top of shoes.
Clothing may be left on hangers and transported in Stevens' wardrobe cartons, which can be purchased from your booking agent. If wardrobes are not used, each garment should be removed from the hanger, folded and placed in a suitcase or a carton lined with clean paper. Some lightweight clothing such as hose, lingerie and sweaters may be left in dresser drawers.
It is recommended that you take any furs or high-value items with you, rather than packing them for transportation on the moving van.
Linen and Bedding
Because they are lightweight, these items can be used for padding delicate items or folded and packed in larger cartons. Line the box with clean paper, and place the linens in a large plastic bag for protection. Place in cartons and label appropriately.
Special mattress cartons in various sizes are available from your Stevens representative. Pillows may be placed in dresser drawers or packed in cartons.
Draperies, Curtains and Rugs Draperies and curtains may also be folded and packed in larger cartons, lined with clean paper. Another alternative is to place on hangers, and pack curtains and drapes in a wardrobe carton. Leave rugs on the floor for the moving company to handle. If they have just returned from the cleaners, leave them rolled. Carpets will be rolled and secured prior to placing them on the moving van. Photographs and Valuables If possible, carry all valuables and photos with you to destination. If you must pack photographs, wrap framed photos with padding and cushioning, and like your dishes, stand them on edge in the box.
Photographs are best protected in photo albums, which should be wrapped and packed in separate cartons. Loose photos should be packed in separate cartons and protected from moisture or possible water damage.Take the time to properly pack your irreplaceable items.
Small Appliances Small clocks, radios and similar items can be packed in the same carton, or in with the linens. These items should be wrapped individually, using several pieces of paper, and should be placed in the packed carton with plenty of crushed paper. Larger Appliances Pre-move preparation is required for many major appliances. All appliances must be dry before loading. Be sure to discuss with your Stevens' representative. Tools Hand tools may be left in toolboxes, the spaces filled with crushed paper, or the tools may be packed according to general packing rules. Always use small cartons because the tools are generally heavy.
Long handled garden tools, as well as brooms and mops, should be bundled together securely. Attachments should be removed from power tools and packed separately.
Food Take only those things you are sure will travel well. Do not take anything perishable. In the winter months, do not take anything that may freeze and burst. For long distance relocations, we recommend giving away canned and perishable foods and replenishing your supply upon arrival at your new home.
If you decide to take pantry items, remember to seal the open boxes of dried or powdered foods such as rice, macaroni and cereals with tape. Small containers of herbs and spices, condiments, gelatin, flavorings, etc. should be placed together in a small box before packing into a larger container. Cover holes of shaker type containers and seal with tape.
Since canned goods are heavy, the amount placed in one carton should be limited. It is good practice to place these canned items on the bottom of a box containing several other light items.
Moving Day Carton If you are traveling by car to your new destination, be sure to pack a "Moving Day Box." Place your last minute items in the box, along with things you'll need right away at your new destination. Keep a folder with all of your moving paperwork with you at all items. You may want to take along:
Non-Transportable Items (DO NOT PACK)
Loss and Damage Protection Be sure to discuss valuation coverage with your Steven's moving representative. In the event an item does get broken, you'll want to be sure that you have adequate coverage to repair or replace the item.
Happy Moving!
Feel free to share this or print this for easy reference when it comes time to moving!
Jim Tutton
Sales Manager
M & E Transportation
(253) 222-8595
M & E Transportation is a licensed and bonded moving company in the state of Washington and
an agent for Stevens Van Lines
Moving companies provide a variety of services for a range of fees. It is a good idea to talk to more than one mover to compare services. Some tips for choosing a qualified, reputable mover are:
Ask friends, family and co-workers about their experiences with the movers they have used.
Contact consumer organizations such as the Better Business Bureau iand Chamber of Commerce in your area.
Choose a moving company which is a licensed in your state to provide House Hold Goods moving services and have all agreed to abide by the terms of our published tariffs. They also have voluntarily agreed to abide by a Code of Conduct that requires complete disclosure of information to consumers, written estimates of charges, timely service and prompt response to claims and complaints.
Reputable movers are always licensed with the DOT. Check your mover's license certificate or call the Department of Transportation in order to make sure the license is up to date.
Local trade associations maintain high standards and can give you detailed information about business and practices.
Make sure you have done a complete evaluation of your needs. Choose the extent of services you will require and make sure that you offer the same information to each company. This will make comparing estimates easier.
Make sure all your communications and negotiations with your mover in writing. You should have a clear understanding of all rates and charges that will apply, the mover's liability for your belongings, pick-up and delivery schedules and claims protection.
Be sure to understand the type of estimate your mover is offering you. An "Estimate" is not a guaranteed price unless it says it is. This is extremely important!
Why is it so important to not trust your moving needs to just anybody....
As a home owner or even a renter, you have spent many years acquiring many pieces of furniture, artwork, dishes, etc... Why trust it to the lowest bid. Just like any SERVICE you buy, you get what you pay for. Think about it, You get three estimates on a move, and all three estimates are different. How do you decide? Ask lots of questions. What are you getting for the rate that was quoted to you. Is the lowest bid going to provide the proper equipment or even personal to do the job correctly and with a specified time frame. Is the lowest bid lower because they are not paying into insurance for their employees and bonds in case of accident or injury. Why is it lower. Ask Questions!!
Why is the highest bid the highest. Are they adding an extra person to the job that does not necessary, are they doing not need packing of clothes that are in a dresser that will not break if they remain while moving locally. Ask Questions!!!
When hiring a moving company to move you to your new home it is not always about the price. Examine the rates that are being charged and understand what services the company is go in to provide to you. And when you do meet with the different moving companies make sure you are telling each company the exact same thing that you are requesting.
Making sure each company is giving you an estimate same required service (ie, moving the same amount of furniture and other items) will increase your chances of not having such different estimates. When it comes move day you not want to have any surprises. Make sure that you have everything in writing on what services will be provided and what items will be moved or not moved.
Bottom line is make sure you ask lots of questions and understand the answers that are given. You should always receive a written estimate and a list of items you are asking to be moved. This will prevent any company suggesting you pay more, when it comes to move day.
Good Luck!
Jim Tutton
M & E Transportation
(253) 222-8595
We are new to Activerain. Not sure if this is the right place for us, but we figure that REALTORS could always benefit from a relationship with a quality mover to refer or ask questions of.
It is our promise to assist you in helping your clients. With tight closing dates as buyers move in and sellers trying to move out, stress can become great. Coordinating moves and helping home owners reduce the time it takes to move their valuable belongings is what we do best. The value in the move far out weighs the cost. Even if you just want us to move a few large items or do a full pack and move we are qualified to provide a elite service to your clients.
Call on us at any time. We are a licensed and bonded Moving Company in Lakewood, WA adhering to the guidelines of the Washington State Utilities and Transportation Commission.
I look forward to assisting in anyway possible. I will also be growing a national network of reputable movers so that if you need a reccomendation in another region I would be more than happy to help you find another quality, professional mover.
Jim Tutton
M & E Transportation
(253) 222-8595
jrtutton@comcast.net
Providing professional moving services to those needed to move from one home to another. We are a licensed and bonded company utalizing the most professional movers and equipment.
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