How to Pack Books

When moving comes you need to consider well what to pack and how. Amongst the most important and valuable items in your home are the books of course. I have created this article to help you pack your books for moving and if possible save some money as well. On first sight it looks like a simple task but there are some tricks that are good to know.
 

Informing yourself how to pack books for moving is one of the things to do before moving.

 

If you are moving to another state it will be convenient for you to pack and take everything before moving day so you have enough time to prepare. But if you are moving to a smaller distance you can leave the heaviest books at your friend or relatives’ place when getting organized to move and pick them up after the moving is over and the moving day has passed.

 

Before starting the packing of books, it is a good opportunity to reevaluate the books you would like to keep. Keep in mind that books can be heavy and it will increase the weight of your load, thus increasing your transportation cost. Consider selling some books at a yard sale, donating them to charity, or selling to a secondhand bookstore.

 

Close the boxes and seal them tightly with sturdy packing tape. Seal all box edges to prevent moisture and other damaging conditions from entering the boxes. Use heavy black markers to label the boxes.  Place the boxes off the floor on pallets or racks with several inches in between them, and several inches away from the walls. This will allow adequate air circulation. Do not place the boxes close to exterior walls, because moisture can be absorbed from the outdoor air. Do not stack the boxes, and don't stack anything else on top of them.

 

 

How to Pack Plants

In our mobile society, it is common for folks to move in pursuit of their careers, or if they are lucky, to a climate better suited for their orchids!   Several times over the last few years the question has come up, "How do I pack my plants for moving?"

Having moved my own collection five times, this is one area in which I can claim expertise!  I also employ these techniques for shipping to my customers, and frequently get complimented about the packing and great condition of arriving plants, so it must be OK...

Before moving day, make sure that all your plants are allowed to go with you. There are strict state and international guidelines established under the Department of Agriculture that often don’t allow certain types of plants to cross state lines. Most of these, however, could be cleared with proper labeling and specifications, such as the name of the name and address of the shipper and receiver, botanical name, quantity and the state or foreign country of origin. If you have concerns of how to prepare the shipment, the non-profit organization, the National Plant Board, provides updated information on the regulations and requirements for each state, as well as a list of other groups that specialize in plant inspection and travel.

Be sure to remove the plastic and water your plants as soon as you arrive. If you transplanted them, it is best to wait a week or so before repotting or planting them. Rushing your plants could stunt their growth and harm them. Slowly introduce them to their new environment and note their progress. Check the soil in your new home, the weather and temperature, and nurture them accordingly. Remove dead leaves and, if necessary, provide them with plant food. Observe them periodically for several weeks until you’re sure that they’re finally safe and settled.