Preparing Household Items

To guard your household goods against damage that could be caused by fire, explosion, or leakage in the van:

Dispose of flammables such as fireworks, cleaning fluids, matches, acids, chemistry sets, aerosol cans, ammunition, etc.

Drain fuel from your power mower and other machinery, and discard partly used cans of oil, paint, thinner or any other substances that may leak.

Carefully tape and place in individual waterproof bags and jars of liquid you plan to take with you, such as prescription medication.

Refillable tanks must be purged and sealed by a local propane dealer. Discard non-refillable propane tanks, which are used for barbecue grills.

Have rugs and draperies cleaned. Leave both wrapped when they are returned from the cleaners.

Obtain a written appraisal of antique items to verify the value. Avoid waxing or oiling wooden antiques (and fine wood furniture) before moving because some products may soften the wood, making it vulnerable to imprinting from furniture pads.

Third-party servicing will likely be needed before moving such items as hot tubs, large-screen televisions and some exercise equipment. Talk to your moving company about PRE and POST move servicing of washer, dryer, grandfather clock, satellite dish, waterbed, etc.

Think twice before dismantling your outside TV antenna for moving: a new one may cost less than moving the present one.

HELPFUL HINTS

Refrigerators

Defrost and thoroughly dry your refrigerator before moving. This is very important. The doors should be left open several hours to air after defrosting. All pans, trays, crispers, shelves, or removable parts should be removed and wrapped separately. Have your refrigerator serviced. Motor may have to be bolted down before moving. Do not plug it in at the new home until it has been unbolted. Talk to your mover to arrange this service.

Stoves

Must be disconnected prior to pickup. Be sure gas lines are shut off tight and capped, if possible. For electric ranges, if the coils are loose, they must be removed with griddles, deep fryers and removable parts, then packed separately.

Air Conditioners

Consult your authorized dealer or service man on your particular model. Some sealed units should be bolted down.

Dryers, Electric or Gas

Check with your service man. Motors may need to be checked and secured. Your mover can arrange this service for you or recommend a reliable service company.

Freezers

These appliances must be completely defrosted on or two days prior to moving. They should be dried and aired to avoid musty odor. Safety of contents cannot be guaranteed so it is best to empty your freezer and plan meals that will use up perishable contents. Check with your service man to be sure the motor is bolted, if necessary.

Sewing Machines

These do not need special servicing for local moving. For long distance, the driver will stuff paper in and around the machine and place paper between the lid and base to prevent rubbing.

Television Sets

Some sets require that they be checked before moving. Some color TV’s must be serviced both before and after moving. Television antennas should be removed from rooftops and disassembled.

Washers

Automatic washers must be serviced by an authorized service man. Motors should be checked and secured, tumbler action protected and fastened in place. Talk with your mover to arrange this service.

© American Moving and Storage Association. Used with permission.

* Global Shipping specializes in relocations including, but not limited to, shipping to Hawaii, moving to Hawaii, shipping from Hawaii, and moving from Hawaii.