Truck Loading Tips

Loading is generally the largest challenge you will face during the move. The two most important things to remember are filling and weight distribution. Professionals pack by rows, bottom to top, and then front to back. Pack tightly from floor to ceiling and then from left to right. 

1. Start by loading heavier furniture and appliances at the front of the truck (the end near the cab).
2. Load dressers, chests, and desks with drawers facing the truck sides. This keeps them from opening. Wrap sofas in plastic and stand them on end to reduce the space used.
3. Place heavy boxes on the bottom. Boxes of about the same size, strength, and weight can be stacked. Load lighter items on top of heavier boxes as you go up.
4. Load items as tightly as possible to prevent shifting, rubbing, or puncturing during moving. Fill the spaces between items to prevent movement. Loose cushions, pillows, and blankets placed in plastic bags are great fillers.
5. Keep the rows as even as possible, filling space side to side and bottom to top. As each row is built try not to use odd pieces that stick out and disrupt the balance.
6. Tie strong rope around the furniture from one side of the truck to the other. Do this approximately every quarter of the truck’s capacity.
7. Repeat the procedure from front to back filling every nook and cranny. Tie the last row securely in place. Some shifting and settling is inevitable.
8. Place mattresses, box springs, bed rails, and other long flat items along the sides of the truck. 
9. The goal is to secure everything as well as possible. Load pictures and mirrors along the truck sides to prevent breakage. If possible pack them between mattresses and the box springs.
10. Some trucks have a special section for fragile items. Pack fragile items such as electronics in the overhead space above the cab.
11. Load a Survival Box of items (toilet paper and other necessities) you will need at the new house. Pack it where it comes off the truck first.
12. Keep a toolbox handy in case you have to remove doors and disassemble furniture. Pack the toolbox in the cab of the truck or next to the Survival Box.
13. Pad all furniture with blankets or bubble wrap. Secure padding to furniture. When possible, remove the legs from furniture and place all bolts/screws in a plastic bag and tape it to the bottom of the furniture. If you need blankets most charitable organizations sell regular quilts and blankets for a very reasonable price. Crushed card board also helps pad furniture.