Simple guidelines for safe packing  

Keep boxes or cartons to a reasonable weight, if possible under 50 pounds so that one person can carry them. 

Package fragile items carefully and only store fragile items (e.g. glass and crockery) in boxes, not in furniture, as it is sometimes necessary to turn furniture sideways when carrying it or for transportation in the van. 

Provide plenty of padding to absorb shock. 

Use boxes that are strong and do not bulge out or in. Ensure boxes are fastened shut. 

As far as possible fill boxes as it helps strengthen them and optimises storage space, used scrunched up newspaper, other paper or towels to fill boxes if necessary. 

Do not mix fragile and non-fragile items. Pack fragile items together and label the box fragile.               
                                              
Guidelines for effective packing

Pack items together for each room and label your boxes clearly. 

As you pack, store boxes in the hallway or in rooms near the front door, so that they are close to the van. 

Start by packing the items you use least often and leave the items you use the most until last. 

Ensure that any boxes of things you will need on the day you arrive stand out from other boxes.