By Diane Schmidt, About.com Guide
Although the dining room is less complicated to pack than the kitchen or bathroom, as its usually composed of large furniture pieces, it still has it's quirks and details that can add a little more complication to the process.
The dining room also includes your most fragile china and crystal stemware. Carefully wrap each item in paper then place them in dishpack boxes with cellular dividers.
Also make sure that any items of high-value are placed on the "High Inventory Form" so that they receive the proper valuation. High-value is considered at a value of $100 per pound.
Step One: Sort, Select and SimplifyLike all rooms, the dining room needs to be sorted and simplified as much as possible. Go through each drawer in the buffet, determine which pieces of furniture will be moved and what in the hutch should stay or go.
Step Two: Pack FragilesWrap china and glassware individually, using several sheets of plain wrapping paper. For a full-detailed step-by-step guide, check out How to Pack Stemware. Also, refer to the step-by-step guide to packing fragiles, with pictures and detailed information.
Here are some additional tips to ensure your fragiles arrive safely:
Use a lot of plain wrapping paper - don't be shy!
If you want to save money, use shredded paper to line the inside of boxes and to fill any gaps or holes.
Bubble wrap will provide protection against bumps and rattles.
Always clearly label boxes with "FRAGILE - THIS SIDE UP."
Pack plates and platters vertically into boxes to avoid cracking and breaking.
Layer pieces in boxes with larger items such as plates and platters on the bottom. Use several layers of newsprint or bubblewrap or shredded paper on top to provide adequate cushioning before adding the next layer.
Bowls, saucers and small serving plates can be placed on top of the bottom layer.
Pack glasses and cups using this step-by-step guide.
Step 3: Silver & FlatwareWhen packing silverware and other silver pieces, make sure each piece is enclosed in newsprint to prevent tarnishing. To protect silver pieces from tarnishing, they should be completely enclosed in newsprint or plastic wrap.
Silverware or flatware can be wrapped by group or kept in their box. If using the box, make sure it's taped closed, then wrap it again in bubblewrap, several sheets of plain paper or linen item such as dishtowels, pillow cases or bathtowel.
Step 4: Lamp Bases, Rugs, Vases and More
Step-by-step guide to packing lamp bases
Step-by-step guide to packing lamp shades
Step-by-Step guide to packing pictures, frames and mirrors.
You may want to have your rugs professionally cleaned before you move them. Roll rugs then secure them with plastic ties, then place them in large, plastic bags. Your moving company or moving supply store can provide you with bags that are large enough to accommodate your rugs. If in doubt, have the moving company pack your more expensive area rugs.
If you need to pack a chandelier, ask the moving company for a special box or have them pack it for you if its of high value. Chandeliers are very difficult to secure and are very easily damaged.
Step 5: FurnitureSecure all doors and drawers in cabinets to ensure they don't open during the move. Large pieces can be shrink-wrapped by the moving company or a professional packing company. This is highly recommended for hutches and cabinets with glass doors.
Table leaves should be wrapped separately in towels or linens. Table corners can be protected from nicks and bumps by purchasing protective corners from your moving supply store. Table legs should be removed if possible. Make sure you store any nuts, bolts and screws in a plastic bag that you can tape to the underside of the table.
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