It's time to get down to work and start the upheaval of moving with the minimum of fuss. Once you get stuck in, it will be easier than you think! What to Pack? That is the Question. Through the years you've compiled quite a collection of absolutely useless things that, for some reason or other you've decided to keep. We'll now it's time for the "8 is enough" rule. Usually if you find something that you have not seen or used, in more than the past 8 months, do yourself a favour and let that item go. Either find it a good home, donate it to charity, or sell it outright. Packing Packing materials: cartons & porta robes can usually be supplied by the removalist company if you are packing yourself, or if you are having your home professionally packed, the packers will supply all materials required. However, extra things that might be required are: bubble wrap; paper (newspaper is generally not recommended as the ink comes off); packaging tape; and marker pens.
When filling your boxes make sure you are optimising the space used, but DO NOT over fill boxes as they must be closed. Remember to use smaller boxes for books as they are very heavy, and larger boxes can't hold the weight. For fragile items it's better to over wrap, and fill excess space with paper and bubble-wrap. There is plenty of room, so don't be scared to use extra boxes. Your possessions are important. Furniture In most cases your removal company will do everything, however shelves, timber or glass should be placed together on the bottom and secured. Doors on units, wardrobes, TV Cabinets, etc; should be fastened. Any collapsible item should be flattened. Beds should be dismantled where possible. Clothes can be left in drawers if travelling direct. However if items are to be stored or freighted overseas these should be emptied. Wardrobes should be empty as well. Loose items such as: large pictures, lamps, vases, etc; will be packed by the removalist but smaller lamps, etc can be packed in boxes.
Pendulum Clocks should be fastened, batteries should be removed from any item in case of leakage. All items should be removed from: Desks, Filing cabinets and any type of office furniture.
All wall hangings, i.e.: plant hangers, spice racks etc should be removed before the removalists arrive. Billiard Tables Cue racks must be removed from wall, balls should be stored in box so they remain secure. Musical Instruments All stools to be emptied. Organs to be collapsed where possible. Pianola reels have to be removed before transportation. Any movable parts should be secured. A good idea is to tape any important attachments to the item in a secure place. Drum Kits should be dismantled. Plants Remove excess water from plant pots. On larger plants such as palms, etc; leaves can be tied together to avoid damage. Smaller plants can be trimmed back. Please remember that they do not travel well over long distances. All garden accessories such as ceramic pots, ornaments, etc; should be collected and placed together. Garden Equipment All tools, etc; should be tied together in bundles; wheelbarrows cleaned; all motorised equipment must be emptied of fuels; and any miscellaneous items should be cleansed of garden residue. Electrical We have a specific section for computer moving, but all other electrical goods need to be handled carefully to ensure safe arrival in your new home.
If you have the original boxes and packaging, you are in luck. However like most of us that didn't keep these boxes, proper packaging will make sure your electrical equipment arrives safe and sound.
It is important to place your padding i.e.: bubble wrap, newspaper, etc, on all sides (bottom, left, right and top) of your electrical devices. Make sure that there are no empty spaces inside your box so as to avoid any jarring during transportation. White Goods All your major appliances including: washing machines, dryers, freezers refrigerators, etc; should be thoroughly clean and dry; and any hoses disconnected before transport. Drawers and shelves should either be removed or properly secured. Microwave ovens: make sure that you remove the plate and pack it separately. Miscellaneous Items Garage items such as mechanical equipment should be handled in the same way as electrical, except for items that have fluids in them such as oil and gas. All such devices should be drained of any fluids and properly stored. Flammable goods CANNOT be carried under any circumstances. BBQ to be dismantled where possible. Hoses to the gas bottles be removed, grit trays should be emptied, cleaned and removed. Gas Bottles MUST be emptied. Overseas All items being sent out of the country must be itemised and declared for customs purposes. It is a good idea to keep an inventory of each box and number the boxes as you go. You won't be able to remember everything! A valuation is also required, there are restrictions in certain countries on medications, so it is best to carry doctors certificates to explain the use of any medication carried.
Packages must have a declaration on the front along with the delivery address and the sender. These articles should be insured; however, your courier will advise you of these details.
No aerosol or pressurised cans such as: lighters, hairspray, paint, etc; of any description can be carried. Computers Most people worry that their valuable computers will be damaged during their move. Thankfully, its simple to transport your computer. Here's some basic tips:
1. Save your Important Files
You would be surprised how many people forget to do this. A useful way to locate your most important files is to keep them with your program disks (operating system software, business software, and of course, games!)
2. Cables and Wires
When you are about to disassemble your computer, have by your side masking tape and a pen. As you un-plug each wire, write on a little piece of masking tape what each wire is for, and simply wrap it around each individual plug. That way, when you move in and go to plug-in your computer, it should be a piece of cake.
3. The Monitor and Printer
Find appropriate sized boxes, if you don't have the originals, along with good insulation: for example; bubble wrap or polystyrene that absorbs the wear and tear of moving. Once in place tape the boxes and they are ready to move.
4. Computer Tower/Hard Drive
Your computer tower/hard drive is the life-blood of your computer world. Relax! Just like your monitor and printer, if you have the original box, you have no worries. If not, purchase a proper sized carton and insulation material. Make sure that your tower is completely surrounded (bottom, left side, right side and top) with padding ie; bubble-wrap or polystyrene. This will keep your tower/hard drive safe during the move.
5. Miscellaneous
Joysticks, mouse, keyboards, etc. All of your computer gadgets and associated materials should be placed in one carton, so you do not have to worry about where to find any of these important items. Same routine. Find an appropriate sized carton with insulation for safe moving. Label all cartons with a marker pen indicating it's contents. Pets Moving the family pet is no different than making sure your human loved ones arrive quickly and safely. Your removalist company wil answer any queries you may have but here are some hints;
Depending on where your are moving to and the distance, it is a good idea to check local laws regarding pets.
Prior to your move, a visit to your veterinarian is advised to ensure your pet is healthy. A copy of your pets' records can be obtained or forwarded to a veterinary office in your new location.
While many of us do not like to place our pets in travel cages, it is the absolute safest mode of transportation for your beloved pet.
Of course for local moves, it makes the most sense to move your pet with you on moving day. Pets have the same capacity for stress as humans, so it is wise to pay as much attention to, and reassure your pet as you would any member of your family!
Moving a pet long distances can be a stressful event for both the pet and yourself. The majority of people choose to move their pet with them in the car. Our little friends do not particularly enjoy long car rides. So, needless to say, multiple stops will have to be made for bathroom breaks, walking breaks and accident breaks.
When moving extremely long distances, the most effective method of transportation is hiring a professional pet transporter. They will handle all facets of your pet's move to make it as quick and as stress free as possible. | 
