Packing Tips

How to Pack China and Glassware

When packing for a move, we recommend using a dish pack — an exceptionally sturdy corrugated carton of double-wall construction — for china, glassware and other fragile items less than 18 inches in size.

How to Pack Books

If you are preparing to pack your book collection for a long distance move, you may first want to evaluate how much of the collection you personally value. When you’ve identified the books you are taking with you, you’ll want to find a sturdy, medium-sized box to keep your books safe and manageable. Expensively bound volumes or those of special sentimental value like picture albums should be individually wrapped before packing.

How to Pack Food

Pack only food items you are sure will travel well. Keep in mind that there are laws that prohibit movers from transporting some types of perishable goods, so check with your United agent before packing your food.

How to Pack Shoes

You may be tempted to toss all of your shoes into the bottom of a box when packing for an upcoming move. This not only puts them at risk for physical damage, but also makes it that much more difficult to unpack when you arrive at your destination. There are several important things to remember when packing your shoes for a move.

How to Pack Softgoods

Blankets, sheets, tablecloths and towels are susceptible to damage during transit and storage. Wardrobe boxes are ideal for moving curtains and draperies. Area rugs should be vacuumed and cleaned prior to a move.

How to Pack a Mirror

Large mirrors require special preparation and a padded carton to ensure safe travel. You should attempt to find a special flat box or glass carton sized specifically for your mirror when purchasing boxes.

How to Pack Lampshades

After removing the light bulb and lamp harp, wrap the base, harp and bulb separately in newsprint. (Use paper pads for large lamps.) Place them together in a carton, filling spaces with crushed paper.

How to Pack Small Appliances

Items such as clocks, small radios and other small appliances need to be packed with plenty of padding to keep their delicate electronic components safe from damage. Each appliance should be wrapped individually and packed in a carton cushioned with crushed paper.

How to Pack Silverware

Your silverware deserves special care when packing. You’ll want to carefully pack silver to protect precious metals and ensure sharp knives and forks don’t injure movers during handling.

How to Pack Your Computers and Electronics

Computers and tablets contain valuable work-related, personal and financial data most of us cannot afford to lose. Naturally, you want to safeguard it from loss or damage.

How to Pack Your Clothes

Specialty wardrobe boxes with built-in racks are available to transport hanging clothes. These are your best bet if you want clothing to arrive at your destination wrinkle-free.

How to Pack Wine Bottles

Wine is an investment that can be easily lost if mishandled during a move. Proper preparation and packing can minimize the risk of damage and spoilage, helping your wine be moved safely.