Why Professional Packing Makes or Breaks Your Move
The vast majority of items damaged during a move aren't broken in the truck — they're broken because they were packed incorrectly before the movers ever touched them. At GorillaMoves, our crew sees the same packing mistakes on nearly every job. The good news? They're all completely avoidable. These 10 professional packing tips are the same techniques our team uses on every move across the Fraser Valley and Lower Mainland.
1. Use the Right Box for Every Item
Not all boxes are created equal. Use small boxes for heavy items like books, dishes, and tools. Use large boxes for light items like pillows, linens, and lampshades. Overloaded large boxes are one of the top causes of box failure and back injuries on move day.
2. Never Leave Empty Space in a Box
Empty space in a box allows items to shift during transport, which causes breakage. Fill every gap with packing paper, crumpled newspaper, or clothing. Shake the box gently — if you hear movement, add more filler until everything is snug.
3. Double-Box Your Most Fragile Items
For your most delicate pieces — fine china, crystal, heirlooms — use the double-box method. Pack the item in a correctly sized inner box with padding, then place that box inside a larger outer box also surrounded by padding. This creates a second layer of shock absorption.
4. Wrap Every Plate Individually and Pack Them Vertically
Plates survive moving far better when packed on their edge rather than stacked flat. Wrap each plate individually in packing paper, then stand them vertically like records in a crate box. Stacking plates flat concentrates all the weight on the bottom plates — a recipe for cracks.
5. Use Wardrobe Boxes for Hanging Clothes
Wardrobe boxes with the hanging bar keep your clothes wrinkle-free and save you hours of ironing after the move. They're especially worth it for suits, dresses, and formal wear. Ask GorillaMoves — we supply wardrobe boxes as part of our professional packing service.
6. Photograph Electronics Before Disconnecting
Before disconnecting your TV, stereo, or computer setup, take a clear photo of all cable connections from the back. This eliminates the guesswork when reconnecting at your new home. Label each cable with masking tape and a marker to match the port it came from.
7. Secure Drawers with Stretch Wrap — Don't Remove Contents
For dressers with lightweight clothing contents, there's no need to empty the drawers. Simply wrap the entire dresser in stretch wrap (plastic wrap) to keep the drawers closed during the move. This saves significant packing time and eliminates an entire category of boxes.
8. Protect Mattresses With Mattress Bags
Mattresses are expensive and difficult to clean. A mattress bag (available at any moving supply store for under $10) keeps your mattress clean from dirt, moisture, and scuffs during the move. GorillaMoves brings mattress bags on every job — ask your crew to use them.
9. Pack a Separate "First Night" Box
Pack one clearly labelled box — or better, a large backpack — with everything you'll need for the first 24 hours at your new home:
- Phone and laptop chargers
- Toiletries and medication
- A change of clothes for each family member
- Coffee, kettle, and a few snacks
- Kids' favourite toy or comfort item
- Basic tools: screwdriver, Allen key, scissors
Load this box last so it's the first thing off the truck and goes directly to your bedroom — not into storage.
10. Label Every Box on the Side, Not the Top
When boxes are stacked, the tops are hidden. Always write the room name and contents on the side of the box in large, clear letters. Use a bold marker — not a pen — so it's readable from across the room. This alone cuts unloading time in half because our crew can place every box in the right room without asking.
When to Let the Professionals Pack for You
If packing feels overwhelming — or if you have fragile antiques, large artwork, or specialty items — GorillaMoves offers a full professional packing service across the Fraser Valley. Our crew brings all materials, packs your entire home efficiently and safely, and ensures everything is labelled and inventory-tracked. Get a free packing and moving quote and let us handle the hardest part of your move.
