Shipping Tips

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.

Disassembling the Crates
Disassembling a crate is simple— there are no tools required and assembly is easy and fast. Download instructions on crate assembly here.



Assembling the Crates
Assembling a crate is simple— there are no tools required and disassembly is easy and fast. Download instructions on crate assembly here.



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. 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, and 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.

"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:

 Fuels / Oils  Paints / Varnishes
 Insecticides  Liquid Bleach
 Matches / Candles  Perishable Goods
 Live Plants  Pets
 Propane  Paint Thinners
 Aerosol Cans  Cleaning Chemicals
 Fire Arms or Ammunition  Food in Glass Jars
 Pressurized Tanks  Firewood

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