Summer is the most popular time for Americans to move. Whether moving a short distance or across the country, proper packing is your best insurance against property damage. It’s tempting to leave everything to the last minute. Unfortunately you can’t just throw your whole house into a beach bag and go. Better moves begin with proper planning.

The reality is that, transporting goods over today's highway systems will put your packing expertise to the test. Moving professionals offer the following advice for planning a successful and damage-free move.

Packing Tips

• Disassemble any items you can.
• Wrap sharp corners to prevent them from puncturing or scratching other items.
• Reinforce the bottom of all boxes.
• Pack one room at a time and label each box with room and contents.
• Mark boxes containing fragile items clearly with "Fragile". Load these boxes on top and secure in place.
• Fill unused space in boxes with paper or filler to prevent shifting.
• Move valuables, houseplants, swim gear, and necessities with you, not in the truck.

Furniture
Pad furniture with blankets or bubble wrap, securing firmly. Remove furniture legs when possible. Place wing nuts or screws in bags taped to underside of furniture. To protect against scratches, coat fine wood furnishings with wax.

Stand sofas on end and secure to minimize space used. Place loose cushions in bags and use as filler between pieces. Move dressers with drawers full to avoid repacking. Secure drawers from opening during transit.

Electronics
When possible, use original boxes for computers, stereos or televisions and follow manufacturer’s instructions for moving. Wrap each piece with bubble wrap or foam packing material. Immobilize any moving parts. Remove all cables and cords and label for easier reinstallation. Tape electrical cords to backs to prevent plug damage. Compact discs, video and cassette tapes will warp in a moving truck in hot weather.

Major Appliances
Disconnect and empty hoses for washing machines and place in the tub. Immobilize the tub with a moving brace or by placing towels/blankets between the tub and sidewall. Tape electrical cords to backs of machines to prevent damage. Defrost, clean and dry refrigerators/freezers days before moving. Utilize the interior space for lightweight or crushable items.

Dishes / Glassware
Each piece should be individually wrapped in sturdy boxes. Plates should be packed on edge not flat. Purchase "dish packs" for best protection. Wrap fine silver in cloth or silver paper.

Lamps/Wall Hangings
Remove bulbs and shades before packing lamps and place them in sturdy cartons, loading them on top. Wrap wall hangings individually with bubble wrap, blankets or towels. Place on edge in protective cartons.

These moving tips were provided by ABF U-Pack Moving and RealEstateABC.com