At Carneys Full Service Movers, we sell professional-grade packing materials including boxes, shrink wrap, padding, and specialty cartons at our Sparks office. Proper packing is one of the best ways to protect your belongings during a move. If you have questions about how to pack a specific item, give us a call or stop by — we’re happy to help.

Start with Quality Packing Supplies

Using the right materials makes all the difference when moving fragile or valuable items. We recommend:

• Strong corrugated moving boxes with lids
• Specialty cartons for mattresses, mirrors, and hanging clothes
• Shrink wrap and protective padding
• Packing paper and tissue paper
• Foam peanuts or styrofoam pellets
• Corrugated paper rolls for fragile items
• Heavy-duty packing tape or twine
• Labels and markers for organization
• Plastic bags for small hardware and cords
• Scissors or box cutters
• A notebook for inventory tracking

Avoid weak grocery or liquor store boxes whenever possible. Food boxes can carry insects or contaminants and often lack the strength needed for moving.

General Packing Tips

• Pack heavier items in smaller boxes
• Use crumpled packing paper to fill empty spaces
• Clearly label fragile boxes
• Keep boxes organized by room
• Do not overload boxes
• Seal all cartons securely with packing tape
• Keep important documents, valuables, and medications with you during travel

Packing Dishware

When packing plates and dishes:

• Use a medium dish pack or sturdy box
• Line the bottom with crumpled packing paper
• Wrap each plate individually with packing paper
• Stack plates vertically on edge rather than flat
• Add cushioning between layers
• Tape wrapped bundles securely

This same method works well for saucers, bowls, and serving dishes.

Packing Cups & Mugs

• Wrap cups individually in packing paper
• Nest cups carefully together
• Tuck paper inside handles and open spaces
• Wrap delicate china or antique cups separately
• Use extra padding for fragile items

Packing Glasses & Stemware

• Stuff glasses with tissue or packing paper
• Roll each glass individually in packing paper
• Keep stemware upright in the box
• Place heavier items at the bottom
• Add cushioning between every layer

Fragile glassware should never be packed on its side.

Specialized Packing Tips

Bureau Drawers

Do not overload drawers. Remove valuables, liquids, breakables, and firearms before moving.

Food Items

Pack canned goods upright in small boxes. Avoid moving perishables or frozen foods during long-distance moves.

Clocks

Pendulum clocks should be secured properly. Grandfather clocks should be serviced by professionals before moving.

Drapes & Curtains

Hang drapes in wardrobe boxes or fold neatly into clean cartons.

Flammables & Combustibles

Do NOT pack:

• Gasoline
• Paint thinner
• Aerosol cans
• Propane tanks
• Other flammable liquids

Temperature changes during transport can create serious hazards.

Lamps & Lampshades

• Remove bulbs and shades
• Wrap shades in tissue paper, not newspaper
• Pack lamps upright with protective padding

Medicines

Seal containers tightly and keep important medications with you during travel.

Mirrors, Paintings & Pictures

• Wrap carefully and pack upright
• Use specialty mirror boxes for large items
• Tape an “X” across mirrors for added protection
• Never place newspaper directly against artwork

Computers & Electronics

Whenever possible, use original packaging. Otherwise:

• Use sturdy boxes with heavy padding
• Wrap cords separately and label them
• Protect screens and delicate components carefully

Silverware

Wrap pieces individually using cloth or low-sulfur paper to reduce tarnishing.

Tools

Drain fuel from power tools before packing. Use small sturdy cartons.

Waterbeds

Drain completely before moving. Fold carefully to avoid damaging internal baffles.

Barbecue Grills & Propane Tanks

Clean and pack grill parts separately. Propane tanks cannot be transported by movers.

Need Packing Supplies or Help?

Carneys Full Service Movers offers professional moving supplies and expert guidance to help make your move easier and safer. Stop by our Sparks office or contact us with any packing questions before your move.