Selecting Packing Supplies

When selecting packing supplies for your possessions, remember:

• Collecting clean boxes from your local grocery store can save you money.
• Check that the boxes are empty of insects and other pests.
• Use only sturdy, corrugated cartons with tops or flaps that fold shut.
• You can save old newspapers for packing material, but be aware that the ink may rub off and stain items. Jay’s recommends that you use blank paper (and we can supply it!).

Jay’s can supply (for a charge) proper cartons for your household items, including mattresses, clothing and mirrors. You may avoid damage to your possessions by using these specially made packing cartons.

Other packing supplies you might need include:

• Scissors and/or a sharp knife
• Plastic bags and labels for parts storage and identification
• Paper
• Heavy-duty packaging tape (11/2 to 2 inches wide) for sealing cartons — Jay’s does not recommend using duct tape or masking tape
• Labels and markers for identifying the contents of cartons

Before you begin packing

Choose a work area that is roomy enough to accommodate the larger cartons, and contains a sturdy table or work surface (Jay’s does not recommend your best dining room table!). Cover your table with a blanket or towels to protect it. Place a generous amount of neatly stacked packing paper on the table, and keep your scissors, tape, marking pens and other packing supplies nearby.

Now that you’ve got your packing supplies and work area ready you can start packing: click for how to pack and more tips.