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Local Expert: Advice for back-to-school packing
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Anonymous user Tue Nov 30, 1999 00:00:00 PST
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0 responses 0 comments Moving the kids out of the nest doesn’t have to be difficult.
Whether it’s across town or across the country, it’s time to start thinking about packing up the kids for another school year in academia’s hallowed halls.
While it can seem like a daunting task at first, with a few packing tips you and your kids will be able to look forward to those last few days before the nest clears out.
When it comes time to pack, make sure to use strong, sturdy boxes. New and unused ones are the best, but if recycled boxes are the only ones available, take the time to reinforce the corners and seams with strong packing tape.
A good rule of thumb is to pack so that the contents can survive a tumble from one foot up, as this will more than likely happen at least once.
Remember, a good move starts with good boxes!
While it may seem like a good idea to pack as much as possible into one box — fewer boxes equals fewer trips equals an easier move — but avoid this pitfall! Large boxes tend to get too heavy when packed to the gills, and they become too awkward for one person to carry.
And while there will be some items that will require two people to transport, it’s best to limit boxes to a size and weight that one person can carry.
If the move is across country, shipping a student’s possessions may be an option, especially with airline restrictions on weight, number of bags and what passengers can and cannot pack. If this is an option, be sure to check with the dormitory for the exact shipping address, and if they can even accept large packages on behalf of the students.
Ground shipping will be the least expensive option, but be sure to leave plenty of time for the packages to arrive.
Move-in day can get a bit hectic with cars, parents and boxes as far as the eye can see.
If you must use recycled boxes, remove or black out all existing labels, including old shipping labels, and be sure to clearly label your child’s boxes to differentiate them from the other boxes, otherwise those prized possessions and memories from home might end up at the wrong place. 
And don’t forget the kids once they are already moved in. Sending a nice care package with fruits and candies might be just the pick-me-up they need mid-semester.
But be advised that many states have regulations about sending produce and live plants over the state line.
Information on what items can be shipped and where can be found on the Department of Agriculture’s Web site: www.usda.gov
Fanny Lin is the owner of PostNet in Bakersfield. For more information, visit: www.postnet.com
Local Expert is a forum for local business owners to write once a year about their area of expertise. If you are interested, call 716-8630.

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