How to Pack and Move the Kitchen
Posted on 30/07/2012
The removals and packing process for the kitchen is probably one of the most time consuming parts of a relocation. A kitchen is a very specific kind of area, because not only do you have many small pieces like cutlery, plates and glasses, many appliances and electronic devices, but there are also the larger pieces of furniture like the kitchen table and chairs. On top of all that, your kitchen cupboards and counters might have to be taken apart, if they are being transported to the new location. It isn't so much a question of how long it's going to take, more a question of where to even begin.
1. Start by taking all of the cutlery, plates, glasses, cups and utensils, wrapping them in paper and bubble wrap (or whatever type of packaging you decide will be best for keeping everything still and saving your fine china from cracking or breaking. Pack these in as little space as possible - one box should be enough. To do this, put all of the forks, spoons, knives and the like in a single bundle, tie it securely and place it in the corner of the box. Lay the largest plates at the bottom box, the smaller on top of then and the bowls at the very top. Put one glass inside another and generally do as much as you can to save space. When the box is full, do not forget to fill any crevasses with paper or something similar, to prevent the items from shifting during the move.
2. Next, do the same for your pots and pans. You may need more than one box, because these pieces are bigger and more irregularly shaped and will not fit together as well. If you have any other small items to pack, you may want to stuff them in the gaps.
3. Next come the appliances. Now, for small appliances, it is always best to pack them in their original packaging, including Styrofoam fittings. If this isn't an option, pack these in generic cardboard boxes, taking care that the box is as small as possible and cushioning the appliance so that it doesn't shift or bump around. Remember to never handle any appliances while they are plugged in to avoid injuring yourself All cables should be coiled and tied securely and all batteries taken out.
4. For the furniture, you should make sure that each piece is securely wrapped in plastic or otherwise shielded from damage and wear and tear. Remove any removable parts and pack them separately. Make sure everything takes up as little space as possible. If you've hired a company for the removals, this is where their services should start.
5. Finally, it is time to move and/or take apart any big pieces of furniture, cupboards, kitchen sets, etc. This is also the time to uninstall any large appliances like a dishwasher for example. Keep in mind that the fridge is supposed to be unplugged and cleaned a few days in advance in order to defrost. Unless you have a friend, who is also a mechanic, do not attempt to do any of this without professional help. The employees of a proper licensed moving company have experience doing this, so why toil alone, when you can rely on the professionals? After all, it's better to be safe than sorry.
