If you've decided to rent a moving truck and haul your items yourself, then it pays to learn a bit about properly packing a moving truck. It's not quite as simple as just tossing everything in the back and driving to your new place. Pack items incorrectly, and the first sharp corner you take could cause thousands of dollars in damage to your possessions. To prevent such catastrophes, adhere to these principles when packing your moving truck:

Rule 1: Place heavy items against the back wall, and evenly against the sides.

Items like dressers, beds, and dining room tables should be placed against the back wall of the truck, when possible. This arrangement will make it easier for you to steer the truck. When you run out of room against the back wall, try to divide items evenly between the two sides of the truck. You want approximately the same weight on either side of the truck. This will reduce leaning and pulling when you steer, making sharp corners (and resulting damage) less likely.

Rule 2: Make sure the dresser drawers are against the wall.

Put dressers in the truck with the open sides of the drawers facing the wall. They should be nearly touching the wall. This way, if you slam on the brakes or swerve to the side, the drawers won't slide out and fly across the truck. No, taping the drawers shut is not enough, as the tape may rip under the extreme force exerted on the drawers if you stop or turn suddenly.

Rule 3: Wrap the packing straps around your items as you go.

Most moving trucks have straps that attach to the walls. As you load items, wrap these straps around them to secure them to the walls. Do this a few items at a time, rather than waiting until the end, as you may not be able to secure all items if you wait. To use the straps, attach one end to the metal bars on the truck wall, put the strap across the items you're securing, and hook the other end to another metal bar. Pull the loose end of the strap to tighten it as much as possible.

Rule 4: Stack boxes to an even height.

If one stack of boxes is stacked higher than the others, the top boxes will shift and tumble during your drive. Keep all stacks of boxes even to avoid this issue. You may have to take a box or two in the cab of the truck with you if there is not a place to securely place it.

For further assistance, contact a local moving company, such as E-Z Moving & Storage.

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