Moving Tips

Here are a few tips to ensure that you and your family have a smooth and stress-free move. These tips can also help you to save time and money. Don't forget to call us for a free quote at (604) 980-3333!

Check your Home Insurance Policy

Talk to your home insurance provider. A portion of the value of your goods may be be covered during your move. You may want to consider purchasing extra coverage if needed.

Packing Tips

Econo Moving & Storage offers an array of packing supplies. See the list of items on the Box Supply page.

Make sure that you have enough boxes when you begin packing, and have a few set aside for moving day. Start by gathering all of your packing supplies, boxes, scissors, tape, newsprint, tissue paper, labels and felt markers. Find an area to work from, such as the dining room, or a spare bedroom. Spread out a protective cover on the dining room table, or on the floor to create a working station. Pack one room at a time, and then move on to the next. It is easiest to keep packed boxes out of the way in a designated room. Pack like things together so they will be easier to find, and more delicate items will not get damamged. Make sure to clearly label each box, and label 'Fragile' if neccessary.

Taking the time to be organized and prepared will ease the stress of your upcoming move. Start by packing seasonal items, such as Christmas ornaments and last season's clothes. Pack any extras of certain items you may have, such as stereos, bathroom items (toothpaste, shampoo, etc.), or anything you may not be using. Make sure to label them with the room destination, so you don't have to open them up again before the move.

Designate one box for each member of the family, and each room of the house. These boxes will be for items that will be needed immediatly upon arrival of the new residence. These can be items such as linens, toothbrushes, tools, etc.

Labelling and Keeping Inventory

When packing, clearly label the destination of the box with felt marker. If possible label the boxes with specific colours so it is easier to determine the room destination when the movers are unloading.

It is also a good idea to number the boxes. While you are packing write down the box number and the key items that it contains. This will make is easier when you are first unpacking and looking for something specific.

How To Pack Specific Items

China
Wrap fragile items individually with newsprint or tissue paper (use sturdy boxes). Place larger items, such as plates on the bottom, and then pile smaller items on top and around the sides. Place extra packing paper on the bottom of the box and around the sides.

Books
It is best to use small, strong boxes for books. When packing, alternate binding edge and open edge to prevent the pages from getting interlocked and damaged. Wrap delicate books in newsprint or tissue. Tape the box well when finished.

Clothing/Drapes/Linens
Clothing, drapes and linens can be folded and placed in a large box. Dresser drawers can also be used for soft and light items. If possible, fasten the drawers so they do not open during moving.

Foods and Liquids
Use as much of your food items before the move, so you will have less to pack. Ensure that all boxes, containers, and shakers are sealed with tape to avoid spilling. Wrap glass canisters in newsprint, or tissue, so they do not break during moving. When packing spices and canisters, pack like items together so they are easier to find.

If you are packing liquids, make sure they are tightly sealed and taped around the lid. If it is possible, place these items in a plastic bag and then in some sort of a rubber container.

Small Appliances
Drain any small appliances with a reservoir, such as a coffee maker or an iron. Wrap small appliances in newsprint (wrapping the cord separately to avoid scratches), and place in a meduim sized box with newsprint on the bottom. Tape securely.

Computers
Before packing your computer, back up all software and personal files onto an external hard drive or DVD. Keep all manuals with the computer to make reconnection easier after the move. Remove ink cartriges from printers and place in a sealed plastic bag. Wrap the computer in several layers of newsprint, and place in a sturdy box. Tape securely and label 'Fragile.'

Mattresses
We offer Queen and King sized mattress covers. See our Box Supply page. Mattress covers help protect the mattresses from stains and damage during the move.

Pictures & Mirrors
We also have two sizes of Mirror/Picture boxes. See our Box Supply page. Large pictures and mirrors should be packed in special Mirror/Picture boxes to protect them. For smaller ones, wrap them in a few sheets of newsprint or tissue and place vertically on the edge in a box.

Keep Important Items on Your Person

It is important to keep valuable, sentimental items, such as silverware and jewelry, with you. Also, keep important papers and medication with you. Important papers would include passports, birth certificates, bank records, bills, etc.