The materials we see most often during moves are no surprise: Boxes, Tape & Shrink-wrap.
Like most Americans, you’ve probably seen variations of these. And as professional movers, we can guarantee that we have, too. That’s also why we can tell you that not all are created equal. Allow us to share the reasons we use the same materials we offer our customers.
Corrugated Cardboard Boxes
Considering the options out there, some customers ask why we use corrugated instead of plastic bins. That’s a great question! In our professional opinion, corrugated offers the best combination of characteristics for several needs. They are:
Corrugated Weights
Some corrugated boxes are designed to surround items that are light-weight in order to protect from exposure to dust and debris. These boxes typically have smaller flaps and may even be “self-sealing” with adhesive tabs. Other boxes are designed to carry small, heavy objects. These types of boxes will commonly have robust flaps and may even have interior corner braces to ensure the contents can be handled safely. For most moves, there is a standard weight of corrugated materials we specify. This is based on the structure of the box as well as the target maximum weight we expect it to carry.
Corrugated Flexibility
Corrugated also offers the added benefit of flexibility. As professional movers, we look first at what’s being placed inside the box to ensure its stable. After that, we consider how it’s being packed in a truck and transported. Some items inside a box will be less delicate than others and we want all boxes to arrive in good condition (along with the contents). Corrugated offers the ability to flex slightly and absorb a degree of stress without transferring that stress to the belongings, inside. Plastic is much more likely to crack or break, exposing the packed materials to potential damage. Using corrugated boxes allows us to handle customer items with the highest degree of respect and safety.
Corrugated Recycling
Unlike its plastic counterparts, corrugated boxes are eco-friendly and easily recycled once they have reached their lifespan.
Packing Tape
Nearly all of us have seen some version of packing tape in a 2 or 3-inch width roll. Our movers use dispensers (often referred to as “tape guns”) to allow for clean application. Murphy Movers will not pack boxes with thin cellophane tape or other, less-reliable materials.
No Wimpy Tape
There are two lesser-known things that can make a move go bad, quickly…and both are poor-quality packing tape. First, tape that’s too flimsy or not sticky can cause all kinds of problems. Even corrugated boxes that fold shut and are heavyweight will require packing tape. Because you’re going to rely on that tape to hold your boxes firmly shut, do yourself a favor and buy the good stuff. As a second measure of safety, use more than one strip of tape to secure the bottom. The cost of good quality materials is a very small expense when compared to the value of your prized possessions and heirlooms.
Paper Sheet Pads
Clean paper sheets help cushion and protect against dust, dirt, minor nicks and scratches during moving. Many smaller items will be wrapped in paper sheets before being placed in moving boxes. Larger items may be wrapped in paper for additional protection such as wood or fragile furniture, pictures and mirrors. Use caution when choosing recycled newspapers or magazines. Light-colored items such as fine china can be damaged by newsprint ink so be sure to check any recycled paper for ink before wrapping.
Bubble Wrap
Plastic bubble wrap can often be reused to wrap small items before placing in boxes. Use caution when wrapping items made of leather or wood because plastic can trap moisture leading to mold or mildew damage if not unwrapped quickly enough after your move. Movers will typically use paper or breathable fabric moving blankets instead of plastic for this reason.
Movers Blankets
The big blankets Movers use are made of a fabric blend and are reusable. These cushioned pads help protect furniture from scratches and scuff marks when moving. Antiques may be wrapped in blankets before being stretch wrapped.
Shrink-wrap
Similar to plastic wrap used in a kitchen, shrink-wrap is used to cover items like furniture. When preparing household moves, we often see amateur crews simply place couches and bed frames as-is, inside a truck. Your furniture was made to rest INSIDE the home. When purchased, it often arrives packed and there’s every good reason to expect your professional movers to handle it with at least the same respect the store did. We use shrink-wrap for large appliances and other uniquely shaped items as well. It helps to ensure large pieces arrive safely.
When you’re looking for a moving company to deliver the very best for you, contact us at Murphy Moving and Storage. You’ll see the difference a quality mover can make! Our goal is to make your next move, your best move.