The Interstate Difference: It’s All About Vibration
Packing for a move down the street is easy. Packing for a 1,000-mile journey is engineering. On an interstate highway, your boxes will experience constant micro-vibrations for days.
If there is empty space in a box, items will shift, rub, and eventually crush each other.
The Golden Rule: Pack so tightly that nothing inside the box can move, even a millimeter. Shake the box—if it rattles, add more paper.
⚠️ Important Insurance Warning: Be aware that most moving valuation plans do not cover internal damage for boxes packed by the owner (known as PBO). By packing yourself, you often assume the liability for breakage. Before you start taping, please read our guide on [Moving Valuation & Coverage: Protecting Your Belongings].
Don't Use Grocery Store Boxes
Used boxes from the grocery store are often weakened by moisture or food residue (which attracts bugs). For a long haul, invest in professional supplies:
Dish Barrels: Double-walled cardboard engineered specifically to withstand crushing pressure. Essential for kitchenware.
Packing Paper: Do not use newspaper! The ink will stain your china permanently. Use clean, unprinted newsprint.
Professional Tape: Cheap clear tape peels off in hot trucks. Use distinct "Packing Tape" with strong adhesive.
Expert Techniques by Room
The Kitchen: The "Vertical" Rule
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The Mistake: Stacking plates flat (like pancakes). The bottom plates will crack under the weight of the stack due to road bumps.
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The Pro Method: Create a cushion of crumpled paper at the bottom of the box. Wrap each plate individually, then stand them up vertically on their edges (like vinyl records). Pack them tightly side-by-side. This creates a strong structural arch.
Electronics: The "Original Box" Rule
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Best Case: Use the original factory box and styrofoam. It was engineered specifically for shipping that device.
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Next Best: Wrap the TV/Monitor in bubble wrap, then cardboard, and secure it. Never lay a flat-screen TV flat inside the truck—the screen will crack.
Books: The "Small Box" Rule
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The Mistake: Filling a huge box with books. It will weigh 80+ lbs, leading to back injuries or the box bottom falling out.
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The Pro Method: Only use Small (1.5 cu. ft.) boxes for books. Pack them flat or spine-down. Volume equals weight—keep heavy items in small boxes.
Clothes: The "Wardrobe" Hack
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The Pro Method: Don't take clothes off the hangers. Use Wardrobe Boxes (portable closets). You simply move the hangers from your closet to the box. Suits and dresses arrive wrinkle-free.
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Dresser Drawers: You can usually leave lightweight linens (socks, t-shirts) in sturdy wood dressers. Important: Please empty all drawers for IKEA or particle-board furniture to prevent structural damage during transport.
Label for the Destination, Not the Source
Don't just write "Fragile." Be specific to help the movers place boxes correctly:
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The Room: (e.g., "Master Bed") — Tells us where to put it.
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The Contents: (e.g., "Books") — Tells us how heavy it is.
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"OPEN FIRST": For sheets, toiletries, and coffee makers you need immediately upon arrival.
Sounds Like a Lot of Work?
It is. A full home packing job typically takes 3-5 days for a DIYer, and one mistake can jeopardize your items.
Our professional crew can pack your entire home in just one day, ensuring every item is insured and secure. If you'd prefer to skip the cardboard chaos, explore our [Professional Packing Services] options to see how we can help.