How to Pack Your Home for Shifting

Packing materials you need

• Cartons in small, medium and large sizes — heavy things go in small boxes.
• Bubble wrap for glass, crockery and electronics.
• Stretch film to protect furniture and mattresses from dust and rain.
• Strong packing tape and a thick marker for labelling.
• Plain packing paper. Avoid newspaper directly on crockery — the ink can stain.

Kitchen

• Wrap every plate and glass individually and stand plates on their edge, not flat.
• Fill empty space in boxes with paper so nothing moves.
• Seal liquids (oil, sauces) in zip bags or pack them separately.
• The gas cylinder must be disconnected and handled as per your gas agency’s rules — do not pack it with other goods.

Electronics

• Use original boxes if you still have them.
• Photograph cable connections at the back of the TV and computer before unplugging.
• Keep remotes, cables and chargers together in one labelled bag.
• Wrap screens with soft cloth first, then bubble wrap. Never put pressure on the screen.

Furniture

• Dismantle beds, tables and wardrobes where possible.
• Put screws and bolts in a small bag and tape it to the furniture it belongs to.
• Wrap corners and glass panels separately.

Clothes and books

• Use suitcases and bags for clothes — it saves cartons.
• Pack books in small boxes so they stay easy to lift.

Label every box

Write the room name and a short list of contents on at least two sides of each box. Mark boxes with glass or electronics as “FRAGILE” and “THIS SIDE UP”. Number the boxes so you can check that all of them arrived.

Never pack these in the truck

• Jewellery, cash and important documents — carry them yourself.
• Medicines you need daily.
• Flammable or hazardous items: fuel, paint thinner, firecrackers, chemicals.
• Perishable food, plants and pets.

Short on time?

Professional packers bring all materials and pack a full home in a fraction of the time. Ask for packing to be included in your quote.