Your salesperson would be happy to arrange a full or partial packing service tailored specifically to meet your needs. If, however, you elect to do all or some of the packing yourself USA Express Moving has developed the following packing information to help your international move go smoothly.

Whether moving across the country or around the globe, packing your belongings for shipment is essentially the same, with a few very important differences. When moving internationally most items of an organic nature cannot be moved. This includes houseplants, food, pet food, gardening supplies, chemicals, etc. Also, some destination and/or transit countries do not allow or place strict limits on the importation of alcoholic beverages, firearms, ammunition, electronics, etc. Another thing to consider is differences in infrastructure - electrical voltage, transmission frequencies, etc. may not be compatible with appliances purchased for use in the U.S. At USA Express Moving, we strongly recommend contacting your Sales Consultant to discuss limitations specific to your international destination.

Although packing is primarily the application of common sense, you can realize great savings in the cost of packing and save yourself time and effort at destination by planning and organizing in advance. Here are some simple steps to follow:

  • Sort out those items you have been meaning to get rid of and get rid of them!
  • Items that should not go in the moving container include cash, jewelry, furs, important papers and other valuables
  • Remove all items from large chests, armoires, dresser drawers, filing cabinets, etc. and pack them into appropriate cartons. Items left in furniture, chests, or cabinets could cause damage during shipment and frequently make the piece unsafe for shipment.
  • Think about the things you want to be packed together. Packing similar articles together will make unpacking easier. If you know the layout of your new home, organize your possessions and label the cartons according to the room in which they will be placed at destination. If you do not have this advantage, label the cartons according to contents and the room in which they were packed.
  • Be sure to dispose of any items of a hazardous nature such as cleaners solvents, paint, aerosol cans and ammunition. These items cannot be moved!



Using the proper materials can save you time, money and effort. The following is a list and description of the materials needed to protect your possessions when packing.

Book Carton (1.5 cu. ft.)

A small, easy to handle carton designed for heavy items such as books and records. Care must be taken so that the box does not become too heavy for handling. Extremely old or valuable books should be individually wrapped.

Medium Carton (3 cu. ft.)

This utility box has a wide range of uses for smaller items throughout the home. It is ideal for small appliances, tools, nonperishable food or clothing.

Large Cartons (4.5 to 6.5 cu. ft.)

Useful for lighter weight, bulky items such as linens, pillows, and large toys.

Dishpack

An especially sturdy carton for fragile items including china, glassware, figurines, and sculptures. This carton is often reinforced with cellular inserts to further protect such things as crystal stemware. All pieces of china and glassware should be individually wrapped in unprinted paper and properly secured with additional paper padding. Dishes should be positioned on end to lessen the chance for breakage. Each carton should be labeled "Fragile - This End Up."

Upright Carton

Typically used for lamps, statuary and other items that require a special size.

Wardrobe

Portable closet. Clothes remain on hangers to stay clean and minimize wrinkles.

Mirror/Picture Cartons

Telescoping cartons fit each mirror, picture, or glass table top exactly.

Packing Paper

Only clean, unprinted paper should be used for wrapping and padding.

Packing properly will eliminate damage during handling and shipment. Packing can, however, take considerable time. Start early, use the proper materials, and don't hesitate to call us with any questions you may have on properly packing your items for shipment.