Most people who move are so happy to finally arrive in their new home that they may overlook chipped dishes or a scratch on the dining room table. But there’s no reason your household items should become victims of the move. With a little care and planning, your household items will arrive in perfect condition.

The following are packing tips to keep in mind when packing large items, packing small items, and packing awkward items.

Packing of large items:

• Tie the bed frames together with tape or string, then label the pieces so they are easy to put back together.
• Fill drawers with tightly wrapped clothes or breakable items. Cover them with a blanket or furniture pads and string securely.
• Remove the table legs, pad and tie them together. Put the nuts and bolts in a bag and tape them under the table.
• Empty, defrost and empty the fridge, freezer and dishwasher. Clean the interiors and put the accessories in bags. Place towels between the sides of the washer to prevent it from spinning and tape any moving parts. Cover with blankets and tie up.
• Use the original packaging for computers, televisions and electronic devices, or buy boxes specifically for electronic devices.

Small Item Packing:

• Put your microwave, VCR and other small appliances in boxes and pad with crumpled paper.
• Pack books flat in small boxes, alternating the bindings. Try to keep each box under 30 pounds.
• Pack hanging items, such as clothing and drapes, in closet boxes. Leave small items in the drawers.
• Wrap fragile collectibles in bubble wrap and tape them down.
• Pack the CD’s upright and shelter them with newspapers.
• Stack pots and pans and quilt them with paper.
• Put all the kitchen items you will need right away in a separate box and label them appropriately so you know which one to unpack first.
• Wrap dishes individually in bubble wrap and never stack them flat. Place plates on saucers at the edges, and place cups and bowls around them.

Packaging of awkward items:

• Wrap the arms and legs of the chair with bubble wrap. Slip covers on chairs or buy chair bags to protect them.
• Loosen the handlebars on the bikes and turn them sideways. Cover chains and pedals to keep grease off other items.
• Wrap small items, such as mirrors and artwork, in newspaper and pack them in mirror boxes. Cover larger pieces with cardboard, tape and place along the sides of the truck or inside cabinet boxes.
• Remove heavy patio furniture. Put the nuts and bolts in a bag and tie them up.
• Roll up rugs and secure with string or tape.
• Place the plants in plastic bags with air holes and then in boxes. Water them before you go.
• Wrap sharp edges of tools and wear enough protection to prevent injury. Tape off the long-handled tools and place the smaller ones in boxes.
• Drain gasoline from all lawnmower and edger tanks and check for oil leaks.
• Use medium-sized boxes for garage and attic items like spray paints, brushes, and car waxes. Discard oily rags or anything combustible.
• Keep pets in a pet carrier up front with you. Ask your vet for suggestions on how to make his movement less traumatic.

Use these packing tips to pack large items, pack small items, and pack awkward items.