Author: Niki M.

How to Pack Household Goods Safely for Your Move Overseas – Keeping an inventory in Mind for your Manifest

• Always use strong boxes to pack fragile items
• Make sure the bottom of the box has additional tape to prevent opening when lifted
• Wrap all fragile items individually in bubble wrap or packing paper
• Corrugated boxes that can be closed shut are highly recommended to secure your belongings
• Plan on using lots of strong packaging tape, labels and markers to clearly identify the content being places in various boxes – this helps with your Manifest and at unloading
• Try and use blank newspapers, plastics or bubble wraps to fill the empty spaces in the cartons

• Remember to unplug all electronics
• Refrigerators should be unplugged 24 hrs prior to loading as they need to drain of excess water and ice
• Remove the inner table in a microwave oven so it does not move inside and break the glass door
• Check the device manuals for all appliances for any special instructions and place all manuals in a folder for Customs
• Double pack electronics with glass screens safely to ensure they do not break

• Fragile crystals, bone china and ceramic kitchenware needs to be packed in bubble wrap
• Glass containers and sharp cutlery should be wrapped with extra packaging
• Place paper between all plates/bowls/cups and dinnerware to prevent chipping and breaking
• Wrap cutlery and utensils together in tight bundles and bubble wrap before putting in boxes
• Wine glasses/ vases / crystal pieces etc, should all be double wrapped in paper and bubble wrap

• Ensure the edges are fully covered to prevent chipping
• Remember to protect the surfaces with a bed sheet to prevent scratches
• This furniture will probably be double stacked in the truck and container so all surfaces must be well protected

• Vehicle(s) will need to be carefully loaded, drained & disconnected and properly strapped with heavy duty straps
• Books can be packed in corrugated boxes – don’t over pack large boxes as books are heavy. Pack in multiple small boxes
• International sized bags could be used to pack clothes and shoes
• Wardrobe boxes with hangers are available 
• Photo frames can be packed by placing packaging paper between multiple frames
• Lampshades are especially fragile and should be packed well to withstand the pressures of container moves
• Fine art, pianos, and musical instruments all have unique requirements for packing

1. Make sure you have all your household goods packed thoroughly, either by yourself or a professional moving crew
2. Make sure you carefully manifest each and every box in detail while it is being loaded for smooth sailing through Customs at the Port(s)
3. Carefully unpack the goods upon arrival at your new destination.