Follow these helpful tips for packing, preparing for moving and sending your precious possessions to your short haul or long-distance destination.
Start by requesting a free moving or shipping quote, using the form on this page. Simply complete and submit the “Get A Free Crate Rate!” form.
Most of these supplies can be ordered through YOU CRATE™. Just place your order for the supplies when you purchase your crate(s) and everything will be delivered direct to your door. The most popular items are included in packages, to make it even easier for you to order the right amount and sizes. For your convenience, please use the Box Estimator to determine just how many you will need.
General Packing Tips
Pack as much as you can into boxes. This will provide greater protection for your belongings and will make loading your crate(s) much easier. Unusually shaped items take up more space and make loading more difficult.
Packing and padding your items are keys to having a successful move. Don't skimp on packing supplies. They are far cheaper than broken or damaged belongings. Check out the wide variety of boxes and packing supplies that YOU CRATE™ offers. Please keep in mind that R+L Carrier trailers are not air-ride.
Start packing several weeks before your move date, taking it one room at a time. Begin with things you use less frequently, such as books and knick knacks. Pack each room in separate boxes and label each box with its contents.
Reinforce the bottom of all boxes with tape. Fill each box to its capacity, using paper or fillers to eliminate empty spaces. The top and sides of each box shouldn't bulge, nor should they cave in when closed.
Pack heavy items, such as books, in smaller boxes. Keep the weight of each box down to a manageable level.
Leave lightweight linens and clothing in their drawers. Pack extra linens, pillows and stuffed animals in large garbage bags and tape closed. Plan to use these bags as cushions or fillers in your crate.
Disassemble any items you can. Be aware of items with sharp corners or projections and keep them from puncturing or scratching other objects.
Pack your valuables and essentials separately and plan on keeping these items with you.
Furniture Moving Tips
Wrap with blankets or bubble wrap. Secure padding to furniture. Do not use tape directly on wood or painted surfaces.
Remove legs from furniture if possible. Place wing nuts or screws in envelopes or plastic bags and tape to underside of furniture.
Coat fine wood furnishings with wax to protect against scratches.
Place sofa cushions and pillows in bags to use as pads or fillers in the crate.
Move dressers with contents in drawers to avoid repacking. Secure drawers from opening during transit.
If you are moving a piano, consider hiring a specialist to pack and load it.
Electronics Moving Tips
Whenever possible use original shipping boxes for computers, printers and other electronic items. You might even consider double boxing. Follow manufacturer's instructions for moving when available.
Immobilize moving parts and remove all detachable cables and wires. Color code or label wiring for easier reinstallation. Tape electrical cords to back of appliance to prevent plug damage and wrap each piece with bubble wrap.
CDs and software do not survive high temperatures. If you are shipping your goods during the warmer seasons, consider keeping these items with you.
Major Appliances Moving Tips
Clean and dry all appliances at least 24 hours before your move date. Consider using empty space in your appliances to move lightweight or crushable items.
Remove broiler pan and racks from your oven. Tape burners or coil elements to the top of your stove and tape down all knobs.
Disconnect and empty all washing machine hoses and store them inside the machine. Immobilize the tub with a brace or by placing towels between the tub and sidewall.
Tape electrical cords to each appliance and tape all doors and lids closed.
Dishes and Glassware Packing Tips
Wrap breakables in tissue paper and use newspaper to fill extra spaces in boxes.
Pack plates on their edges. Consider using pot holders and dish towels to cushion the bottom and sides of your boxes.
For greater protection, consider purchasing extra "Dish Saver Kits".
Fine silver should be wrapped in cloth or silver paper.
Lamps and Decor Packing and Moving Tips
Remove all bulbs and shades from lamps. Pack in sturdy cartons labeled "fragile".
Wrap each wall hanging individually with bubble wrap, blankets, or towels. Pack flat items on their edges.
For large mirrors or pictures, cover both sides with bubble wrap and heavy cardboard, then bind with tape.
Lawn and Garage Items; Packing Tips
Drain all gasoline and oil from lawn mowers, weed eaters, chain saws and other equipment.
Empty propane tanks from barbecue grill and properly purge hose. Secure lid and immobilize moving parts.
Strap long garden tools together into a bundle. Pack heavy power tools into small sturdy boxes and fill spaces with newspaper.
Recommended Supplies
Most of these supplies can be ordered through YOU CRATETM. Just place your order for the supplies when you purchase your crate(s) and everything will be delivered direct to your door.
various size boxes
cardboard
plastic sheets/tarp
blankets
padding/bubble wrap
newspaper/wrapping paper
box/shipping tape
scissors/pocket knife
small tool kit
sandwich bags (to hold appliance/furniture hardware)
gloves
The most popular items are included in YOU CRATE™ Advantage Kits, to make it even easier for you to order the right amount and sizes. For your convenience, please use the Box Estimator to determine just how many you will need.
"Do Not Ship" List
Your shipment should not include anything that is poisonous, flammable, corrosive or perishable. Such items include, but are not limited to, the following:
various size boxes
