What Not to Pack in Boxes When Moving: An Expert's Guide

Moving can be a stressful experience, and it's important to know what not to pack in boxes when you're getting ready to move. Household cleaners, lighter fluid, matches, acid, gasoline, paint and paint thinner, car batteries and other batteries, aerosols, and pool chemicals should all be avoided when packing boxes for a move. These items can give off dangerous fumes when mixed with other chemicals in the back of the moving truck, and the high temperatures in the back of a moving truck can cause these chemicals to become harmful or even fatal gases. Lighter fluid is also highly flammable and should not be packed in boxes.

Foods and plants can die or spoil during transit, so it's important to empty the refrigerator and freezer for at least 24 hours before packing them. Keep the appliance doors open to allow the appliance to dry and prevent mold and odor growth. Boxes that weigh more than 50 pounds should also be avoided. A box that is too heavy can compromise the integrity and stability of the box when transporting it and can cause injury to carriers attempting to lift it.

Smaller boxes should be used for books, files or canned goods. It's important to remember that large cardboard boxes are not designed to hold heavy items, while small boxes are designed to carry or store lightweight things. Labeling your moving boxes is also important. This will help you save time and frustration after the move.

When packing fragile items like photos, tape an X over the glass to reinforce it and hold it together if it breaks. Then wrap the pictures in paper or bubble wrap and place them in a frame box with a piece of cardboard between each framed piece to protect them. Certain valuables should always be kept close to you during a move, while other items should be left to professionals to pack them to prevent injury and breakage. Keeping a brightly colored folder with tab dividers or a folder for your moving checklist will help you keep all your documents in one place.

Finally, make sure each pet in the family is microchipped, labeled, and has a backpack full of food, medicine, treats, and toys so they can be taken care of wherever they go during the move. By following these tips, you'll have less to pack, less to move, less to unpack, and you'll start your life in your new space with a clean slate.

Polly Amescua
Polly Amescua

Food nerd. Social media ninja. Unapologetic pop culture lover. Wannabe web maven. General pop culture advocate.

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