Embarking on a move involves careful consideration, especially when it comes to packing specific and unique items. Whether dealing with large appliances, cherished electronics, or valuable possessions, a well-thought-out approach is essential to ensure their safe transition. Certain items, due to their size, shape, or unique nature, require special care to ensure a secure journey. Employ these suggestions for packing TVs, appliances, and other specific items to safeguard them during the moving process.
Packing Appliances
Small appliances and utensils: Wrap and place them in sturdy boxes with heavier items at the bottom.
Major appliances (refrigerator, stove, freezer, washer, dryer, etc.):
- Have an authorized serviceman disconnect and prepare these for transport.
- Defrost, clean, and dry your refrigerator and freezer before the arrival of the JW Cole & Sons Inc. moving team.
Packing Specific Items
Barbeque Grills
Wrap grates and briquettes separately in a newspaper (or place briquettes in a grocery bag). Put them in a box and cushion with paper to minimize movement.
Bedding
Fold and pack pillowcases, sheets, linens, and towels in clean, medium-sized boxes (3 cube). Pack blankets, quilts, and comforters in large boxes (4.5 cube). JW Cole & Sons Inc. furniture movers will disassemble and set up most beds in your new home.
Books
Pack standing on edge in small boxes (1.5 cube) and alternate the direction of the bindings with each layer. Keep the box weight under 50 pounds.
Canned and Non-Perishable Foods
- Pack upright in small boxes, with no more than 24 to 30 cans per box.
- Wrap glass containers and boxed foods individually and pack them in small boxes.
- If you wish to leave food behind, JW Cole & Sons Inc. of Florida can assist you in donating it to Move for Hunger.
Cars and Motorcycles
Drain fuel to near empty. Disconnect the motorcycle’s battery. Ensure the automobile has sufficient antifreeze.
Clocks
Remove or secure the pendulum.
Clothing
Place dress clothes on hangers inside wardrobe boxes. Fold and pack other clothing in clean boxes.
DVD and Blu-Ray Players, Gaming Systems, and CD Players, and Turntables
- Pack these items in their original boxes if available. Otherwise, refer to the owner's manual for proper packing.
- Wrap DVD players, CD players, and turntables with an old blanket and place them upright in the box.
- To stabilize the laser on your CD player, replace the transport screws (usually located on the bottom of the unit).
- For your turntable, stabilize the platter to secure the changer and tonearm by tightening the screws located on the top of the turntable.
- Label the packing boxes as "Fragile" and "This Side Up."
- Pack high-value items in the presence of your JW Cole & Sons Inc. Van Operator or packing crew for identification and inventory purposes.
Drapes and Curtains
- Hang drapes over crossbars in wardrobe boxes or fold and pack them in clean boxes.
- Remove curtains from rods, fold them, and pack them in boxes.
Electronic Media (DVDs, Blu-rays, CDs, Software Discs, Records, Audio Cassette Tapes, and Videotapes)
- Line the bottom of a small box with shredded or crushed paper. Pack media in protective sleeves or cases if available.
- Alternatively, wrap them in tissue paper or plastic wrap to prevent scratching.
- Stand CDs, software discs, and records on edge in boxes (do not lay flat).
- Support both ends with a hardback book or layer cardboard for a snug fit.
- Fill in with paper as needed. Mark the box as "Fragile."
- For proper preparation of home theaters and large electronics, consider using a qualified third party. Your local Atlas mover can connect you with a specialist.
Firearms
- Notify JW Cole & Sons Inc. of Florida if your shipment includes long guns or other firearms.
- Firearms must be unloaded, have legible serial numbers, and be packed in the presence of JW Cole & Sons Inc. Operator.
Home Theater Systems, TVs, Surround Sound, and Entertainment System Components
- Utilize the original packaging when available. Refer to your owner's manuals for specific instructions.
Lamps and Lampshades
- Remove bulbs, harps, and shades, and roll up the cord.
- Pack lamps with bedding or wrap them separately and place them upright in clean, tissue-lined boxes.
- Wrap the harp and finial (top ornament) with packing paper and tape inside the box containing the shade.
- Wrap shades in tissue, not newspaper, and place them upright in large, tissue-lined boxes.
Mattresses
- Typically, JW Cole & Sons Inc. Professional Van operators and crew will prepare these items, ensuring they are fully wrapped, transported, and stored flat.
- Avoid standing them on end to prevent layer separation.
- JW Cole & Sons Inc. of Florida offers affordable boxes for thick or memory foam mattresses if extra protection is desired.
- Protect mattresses by covering them with old sheets or mattress covers and wrapping them in plastic. Mark the box as "Lay Flat – Memory Foam.
Microwave Ovens
- Remove loose articles from the oven, such as cookware, glass or wire shelves, and carousels.
- Wrap these items and place them in a separate container.
- Tape the door shut in an X-pattern to protect the glass.
- Use the original manufacturer's box if available; otherwise, follow the instructions below for packing personal computers.
Mirrors, Paintings, and Pictures
- Inform JW Cole & Sons Inc. of Florida if you have valuable paintings requiring special care.
- Wrap small mirrors, pictures, paintings, and frames in unprinted newspaper or paper pads and place them on edge in boxes or mirror boxes.
- Avoid using printed newspaper in contact with paintings as ink may smudge or damage the art.
Personal Computers (PCs, Scanners, Printers, Etc.)
- Pack them in the original boxes if available.
- Otherwise, use strong, corrugated boxes and place protective padding inside the bottom of the box.
- Wrap the item with a blanket or protective pad and place it in the box.
- Add extra padding between the box and the computer.
- Wrap detachable cords separately, label them, and place them in a plastic bag. Put cords between the padded computer and the box.
Rugs
Allow your JW Cole & Sons Inc. Professional Van Operator and crew to handle the rolling of large rugs.
Silverware
- Wrap each piece in cloth or low-sulfur-content paper to prevent tarnishing.
- Wrap the silver chest in an old blanket or moving pad to prevent scratching.
Tools and Lawn Equipment
- Pack hand tools in small, sturdy boxes.
- Wrap valuable tools separately.
- Drain oil and fuel from gas-powered tools, such as leaf blowers, trimmers, and chainsaws. JW Cole & Sons Inc. of Florida, does not transport flammables under any circumstances.
Waterbeds
- Drain the mattress completely.
- Grasp the internal baffle with the external vinyl and fold the mattress 20 inches at a time. Adjust folds to avoid creases across individual baffles.
- Avoid placing the mattress in contact with sharp or pointed objects.
- Consult your owner's manual or inquire with JW Cole & Sons Inc. of Florida if you have any questions.
FOR ADVICE ON PACKING SPECIFIC ITEMS OR TO HAVE THEM PACKED, YOU CAN ALWAYS CALL YOUR LOCAL ATLAS MOVER.
As you prepare for the journey ahead, remember that the key to a successful move lies in the details, especially when handling specific and unique items. JW Cole & Sons Inc. of Florida is committed to making your transition as smooth as possible, and by following the guidelines outlined in this guide, you can ensure the safety of your possessions. From delicate artwork to high-tech electronics, this comprehensive approach ensures that every item reaches its destination securely.
Ready to Make Your Move?
Based in Fort Myers, Florida, JW Cole & Sons Inc. of Florida is a dedicated family-operated business with extensive experience. Since 1985, we’ve provided top-tier and cost-effective services to families in Southwest Florida, proudly serving Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Naples, Lehigh Acres, and Estero. Our partnership with Atlas Van Lines ensures that your local moving needs are handled with utmost professionalism and attention to detail.
Contact JW Cole & Sons Inc. of Florida today at 239-694-3400 or fill out our convenient online form.
