Packing tips

If you choose to pack by yourself, please read Ottawa Pro Movers' tips on doing it right:

1. START

   Go from the least vital to most used items. Start packing rooms like the dining room and office before the kitchen and bedrooms. Decorative items that won’t impact the practical workings of the home like wall art are a great starting point.

2. GO SMALL

   Put fragile items in small boxes, and don’t let the weight of the load crush your valuables.

   Remember to pack tightly and to the top to avoid the shifting or rubbing of box contents. Fill the empty spaces with crumpled wrapping paper.

   Don’t overload the box so as to allow proper closing.

   Overfill boxes increases the likelihood of accidents during transportation.

3. FRAGILE

   Mark the boxes with glassware and drink-ware as FRAGILE on the side of the boxes to make sure the movers see the marking.

   Fragile items, such as your china, glasses, and mugs, should be wrapped individually in wrapping paper or bubble wrap. Avoid placing heavier items on top of them. This will help avoid damage to the fragile items.  If you’re looking for a cheaper and a greener way to wrap your glasses and mugs, use your clean socks or other soft clothing items.

4. M-L-XL

   Use larger boxes for voluminous items, such as duvets, winter coats, plushies, pillows, and cushions

5. LIQUIDS

   It’s best to gather all your liquids and place them in a plastic container.

   Secure the lids with wrap or tape to prevent leaks, or put plastic bags, ziplock bags, or cling wrap over spill-able items.

   Ensure the boxes are positioned upright to prevent spilling.  Mark “THIS SIDE UP” on the side of the box.

   Try to make a separate box for your oils, vinegars and cooking sauces, and a different box or two for the cleaning supplies.

   If using plastic bins, ensure proper lids, and is better to secure them with tape.

6. LIGHTS OFF

   For lamps, big and small, disassemble, wrap, and put them in a box. Make sure that the shades are packaged separately from the lamp, and also be sure that your bulbs are securely wrapped.

7. WEIGHT COUNTS

   Don’t overload the boxes, especially with heavy items such as books. Our movers are strong guys, but still human.

   Make sure the boxes are properly sealed and are not overflowing, as this will allow proper stacking of the boxes in the truck and prevent the scattering of your belongings during the move.

8. ELECTRONICS

   For electronics, take a photo of all the cables connected to the TV, printer, router, etc. You will appreciate the photos once you start to restore the connections.

   All electronics and screens must preferably be packed in their original boxes of custom made speciality boxes.

   Use blankets and large towels to add an extra protection layer to your electronics.

   Never place electronic devices or small appliances with any liquids in the same box.

9. ART LOVERS

   Valuable paintings, sculptures or special items may require custom made crates for transportation, so make sure to arrange that before transportation.

10. LABELING

    Each box or container should be labeled on each side with a marker or an actual label detailing the room location, the contents of the box and numbering. This will ensure proper placement in your new home, as well as that you have the exact number of boxes that you left with when you arrive.

11. BUNDLE UP

    Don’t leave any loose items. The best way to preserve your belongings is by boxing them.

    Once in a box, the item is better protected and the the boxes are stackable to allow for a more efficient usage of space in the truck.