A well-packed box can be the difference between broken items and safe and secure ones. Packing properly for an overseas move can also ensure that you save some money on the cost of shipping. Here are seven tips for packing like a pro for your overseas move. 

 

Trim What You’re Bringing 

The less you bring, the easier it will be to ship, and the less costly your move will be. Before you begin packing determine what you can sell, donate, or store. When making a choice between items consider whether an item has monetary or sentimental value, and if it does, consider gifting it to a friend or family member instead of shipping it. Figure out which items can be easily and affordably replaced when you arrive at your new destination, and whether the item is restricted where you are moving.

   

Don’t Skimp on Packing Supplies 

Purchase boxes that are built to withstand a long journey. The same goes for packing supplies like tape and wrap. Use extra tape on the corners and the sides of your packages, particularly when you are working with boxes containing fragile items like electronics that will need maximum protection. You can purchase moving specific tissues, poly chips, bubble wrap, and cardboard dividers to prevent the shifting of your items. 

 

Pack Strategically 

Heavy items should be placed in smaller boxes to reduce the strain on the bottom of the box. With items like books that fit into a big box, resist the temptation to overpack, as they are quite heavy. Label boxes so it is clear to anyone moving them which way is the top. For added protection consider layering packing material at both the bottom and top of your boxes. Tape all manuals to the items you are moving to keep them together, so you’ll have them handy when you unpack, and reference these specific manuals to see if there are any device-specific recommendations for moving.

 

Other Tools Necessary 

Having shipping labels with clear writing on them ready to affix to your boxes will save you countless hours with a marker, writing everything by hand. Consult with the experts for their recommended packing techniques for unique items such as artwork or musical instruments. 

 

Specific for Kitchens 

  • Place paper between plates, bowls, cups, etc. to avoid cracking and chipping of items 
  • Wrap cutlery in bubble wrap before placing in your box 
  • Double wrap fragile items like wine glasses or vases in a thick bubble wrap to prevent breakage 
  • Unplug appliances before moving them (some, like fridges, need to be unplugged at least 24 hours before they are packaged) 
  • Double wrap your microwave plate outside of the microwave itself to avoid it breaking against the microwave door in transit 

 

Call on a Friend 

If you have friends or family members coming to visit you early on in your move, consider asking them to bring a suitcase filled with off-season items before you’ll need them. This is particularly helpful for bulky items like winter coats and boots. Just don’t forget to pay them for any additional baggage charges they may incur on their flight. 

 

Know When to Rely on an Expert 

If you have extra money in your budget, consider hiring a moving company to pack your items for you. If that isn’t an option, consider getting an estimate on boxes and materials necessary so they can supply you with the appropriate packing equipment that they’d use to make it an effective ‘do it yourself’ job. 

 

 Orbit International Moving Logistics Ltd.: Your International Moving Expert

 We have over a decade of experience moving customers around the world. Some of our customers like us so much, they’ve used us more than once. Why did they come back to Orbit? Our customer service is what sets us apart – customer service representatives answer every question, no matter how small, and our moving crew shows up on time with all the materials they need to get the job done correctly the first time. To learn more about Orbit, call us at 416-661-4228.