Boxes

All loose belongings need to be boxed. You can do this yourself, pay the mover to do it all for you, or have the mover do partial packing (for example, pack only fragile items). Remember, in terms of insurance coverage, the mover is only responsible for damage to items inside boxes he packed, unless there is exterior damage to the boxes as a result of the move.

Recycled boxes are available free from local stores, but they should all be clean, strong and able to close. (During your move, the boxes will be stacked on top of each other.) You can purchase new boxes from L.A. Transport Moving Services Co. Some available are double-corrugated for extra strength and come in special sizes to make it easier to pack.

It is important to know how many boxes your move will require, both in terms of obtaining them and budgeting your time. Use the chart below to help you get an idea. (Keep in mind, however, that the longer you've lived in your home, the more stuff you will have accumulated.)

Estimating How Many Boxes You Need

Most people don't realize how much they have accumulated over the years until the truck is loaded.

Other Materials

Tape: Every box needs to be taped, top and bottom, with 2 - 2 1/2 inch gummed or masking tape to give it additional strength and prevent opening. You will need approximately one roll of tape for every 15 to 20 boxes. You can buy the tape from the hardware store or from L.A. Transport Moving Services Co.

Wrapping paper: Ordinary newspaper will do fine for this purpose, but be careful because the print will run. For items you want to keep clean, you can buy unprinted white packing paper from L.A. Transport Moving Services Co.. Blankets: Furniture should be wrapped in blankets for its protection. Leave this job to the movers. They will provide the use of blankets free of charge.

Original packing: Whenever it's available, use the original packing material for your electronic items (stereo, computer, etc.)