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Comprehensive technical guide to packing and wrapping for home relocations

Expert advice for safely preparing large homes, garages, and appliances for moving
By · March 6, 2025
Comprehensive technical guide to packing and wrapping for home relocations

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Properly packing, wrapping, and unplugging household items and appliances is critical to ensure their protection and functionality during relocation.

Below is a comprehensive, detailed, and technical guide on effectively preparing household appliances and items for a safe and damage-free move—particularly suited for larger 4+ bedroom properties with garages, sheds, and additional storage areas within South Africa.

Pack and wrapping tips for your household items

Select the right packing materials

Use high-quality packing materials, including bubble wrap, packing paper, foam cushioning, sturdy cardboard boxes, and specialised containers. Ensure materials are robust enough to handle varying South African weather conditions.

How to label and mark your boxes

  • Label your boxes clearly with detailed content descriptions.

  • Mark boxes containing fragile items boldly as "FRAGILE" and heavier boxes distinctly as "HEAVY."

  • Use permanent markers and ensure that your handwriting is clear and legible.

  • Colour-code boxes according to destination rooms to streamline unloading and unpacking.

  • Indicate the box orientation with "THIS SIDE UP" arrows.

Detailed packing guidelines

General household items

  • Wrap dishes individually with bubble wrap or packing paper and then stack them vertically in sturdy boxes.

  • Secure smaller items and delicate pieces using bubble wrap, foam padding, or packing peanuts.

Electronics and entertainment systems

  • Disconnect and label your cables clearly. Pack your cables separately or secure them neatly to each device.

  • Use original packaging if available or specialised electronic boxes with anti-static padding.

Garage and shed items

  • Drain fuel from petrol-powered equipment like lawnmowers and generators to prevent leaks or hazards.

  • Pack sharp tools securely, wrapping sharp edges individually. Pack them in robust toolboxes to minimise injury risk.

  • Store hazardous materials such as paints, solvents, and chemicals separately in clearly marked containers.

Outdoor and garden items

  • Dismantle garden furniture where possible and wrap each component individually.

  • Secure garden ornaments and pots using robust padding and heavy-duty boxes.

Packing and wrapping your appliances

How to prepare your appliances

  • Refrigerators and freezers: Defrost, clean thoroughly, and dry completely. Secure doors shut with tape or stretch wrap.

  • Washing machines and dishwashers: Drain hoses fully and secure the drum with transportation bolts to avoid internal damage.

  • Ovens and microwaves: Remove internal trays and racks and pack these separately. Appliances should be spotless and fully dry.

How to wrap your appliances

Wrap each appliance with moving blankets secured by industrial-grade stretch wrap, ensuring comprehensive protection against damage.

Unplugging and appliance handling

Electrical safety

  • Always disconnect appliances by switching them off at the socket and unplugging them from the power source.

  • Neatly coil and secure cords using packing tape or cable ties to avoid damage or hazards.

Special considerations

  • Engage a qualified professional to safely disconnect your gas appliances and securely cap your gas lines.

  • Clearly label disconnected hoses, attachments, and parts for easy reconnection.

Technical considerations for challenging removals

Removing doors and frames

Carefully remove and securely store door hardware and frames to accommodate the movement of large items.

Window removals

Consider professional removal and reinstallation of windows or frames when navigating oversized furniture and appliances out of the property.

Hoisting and rigging large items

Employ professional movers who are experienced in hoisting techniques and can use technical moving equipment, such as specialised lifting straps, rigging equipment, and harnesses to elevate large furniture or appliances safely through upper-level windows or balconies.

Additional technical considerations

Important documents and valuables

Secure vital documents (identification, property deeds, financial records) in waterproof and clearly marked containers. Transport valuables and important documents personally to ensure their safety.

Final inspection and property checks

  • Perform a thorough walkthrough, checking each room, garage, and shed to ensure nothing is overlooked.
  • Verify that your appliances and electronics are fully disconnected and that all packed items are marked clearly and ready for transport.

Following these detailed technical guidelines ensures a streamlined, safe, and efficient relocation experience, effectively managing complexities associated with larger moves across South Africa.

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