How to load a U-Pack trailer or ReloCube

Getting ready to load

There are a few things to take care of before starting.
 

Have the right supplies 

From moving blankets and tie-downs to dollies and work gloves, having the right gear can make loading easier. 

Read Essential Tools and Gear for Moving Day for a helpful list of supplies to have on hand.
 

Decide if you need help

Depending on the size of the home and how much time you want to spend, you’ll want to have 1-3 extra people on hand to help. Not only will it take some of the work off your shoulders, but it will also streamline the process. 

Read Should You Ask Friends to Help You Move? for tips on deciding whether to ask friends or family for help. 

If you need additional assistance, we can help you find a loading crew in your area.
 

Prepare your home

One of the most important things to do is measure large pieces of furniture and find the best door to use when moving them. 

You’ll also need to clear an obstacle-free route from the door to the moving equipment, and put protective covering on the floors. Finally, be sure to set aside any items you’re taking with you, so they don’t get loaded by mistake.
 

Loading the equipment 

Here's what to know about loading a trailer or ReloCube, making the most of your space and staying safe while you work.
 

Trailer loading process

When you’re loading a U-Pack moving trailer, you’ll want to take advantage of the height and width since you’re only charged for the linear footage you use. 

1. Set up the ramp

Follow the directions for setting up the loading ramp. Make sure it’s properly positioned and secure before you use it. 

2. Load heavy items first

Place heavy furniture, appliances and boxes toward the front of the trailer, keeping the weight distributed evenly from side to side.

3. Work from floor to ceiling

Once the bottom layer is in place, stack lighter boxes and belongings on top. Try to keep your stacks level and stable. 

4. Place furniture strategically

Large items can take up a lot of floor space, so think about how you can position them efficiently. When appropriate, items like sofas and mattresses can be placed on their sides to free up space. Use moving blankets or padding to protect them.

5. Fill gaps as you go

Look for empty spaces between larger items. Smaller boxes and soft items can help fill gaps and keep things from moving around.

6. Protect and secure belongings

Use tie-downs as needed to help keep items from shifting during transit.

7. Give everything a final check

Before you're finished, check that nothing can easily fall or shift.

 8. Install the bulkhead (divider wall)

Once everything is loaded, follow the instructions to install and lock the bulkhead. This separates your shipment from the rest of the trailer.

9. Place the ramp in the trailer

After the bulkhead is in place, put the ramp in the trailer. Never load the ramp behind the locked bulkhead with your belongings.
 
 

ReloCube loading process

Because you're loading through a single end door into a more compact space, you'll want to think about how everything will fit in the ReloCube container before you put anything inside.

1. Start with large items

Place large furniture and appliances toward the back and sides of the container. Mattresses work well along the back wall!

2. Build from the back forward

Work your way toward the door. This lets you use the entire container without having to work around items you've already loaded.

3. Think vertically

Don't forget about the space above your furniture. Stack boxes and other belongings when it's safe to do so, putting heavier items on the bottom and lighter ones on top.

4. Use smaller items to fill spaces

Put boxes, soft goods and other appropriately sized belongings into gaps to make efficient use of the available space.

5. Secure items as you load

Use tie-downs to help secure furniture and other belongings that could shift during transit. Place moving blankets, padding or another protective material between the straps and the furniture to help prevent scratches, dents or other damage.

6. Keep the weight balanced

Distribute weight throughout the container.

7. Check the entire load 

Check that your belongings are protected, tie-downs are secure and nothing is loose or unstable.

8. Lock the Cube

Close the ReloCube door and secure it with your own padlock. Give it a quick check to make sure the door is closed completely and the lock is secure.
 
 

Additional loading tips

No matter which U-Pack equipment you're loading, keep these additional tips in mind:

• Keep similar items together. Grouping items by room or type can make unloading easier when you reach your destination.
   
• Keep frequently needed items accessible. If you’ll need something on your first night, load it at the back of the trailer where you can reach it easily.
   
• Protect flat items. Place pictures, mirrors, headboards and footboards upright between mattresses for extra protection.
   
• Think about what’s loaded near soft materials. Items with protruding metal or other sharp edges can puncture or damage sofas, mattresses and wood furniture.
   
• Don’t overtighten tie-down straps. Secure furniture and other belongings firmly enough to prevent shifting, but avoid applying so much pressure that the straps could damage the items.
   
   

Basic safety tips 

Loading can be physical work, so take a few precautions to prevent injuries and accidents.

• Ask for help with heavy or awkward items. Don’t try to lift or carry something by yourself if it’s too heavy or difficult to handle safely.
   
• Use proper lifting techniques. Bend your knees, keep your back straight and lift with your legs. Avoid twisting while carrying heavy items. Use this guide for more tips on lifting boxes and other heavy items.
   
• Use a dolly when needed. It can make it easier to move multiple boxes at once and reduce the number of trips you make.
   
• Wear appropriate clothing and shoes. Choose comfortable clothing and sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good traction. You’ll also want to put on leather gloves when handling large, heavy objects with sharp edges.
   
• Keep children and pets away from the loading area. Moving equipment and heavy belongings can create hazards for anyone not involved in the move.
   
• Take breaks. Loading can be physically demanding, so give yourself time to rest and stay hydrated.
   
• Be especially careful with gas-powered equipment. Drain fuel from motorcycles, lawn mowers, weed eaters and other gas-powered items before loading them, and keep them away from furniture and other belongings. 
   

Unloading at the new home

Once the equipment arrives, you’ll have three business days to unload your belongings. Follow the same tips for protecting floors, keeping walkways safe and moving heavy or awkward items safely. 

When your equipment is empty, give the service center a call to let them know you’re ready to have it picked up. 
 

Ready for your move?

Whether you’re still packing, getting ready for moving day or about to settle into your new home, these resources can help. 

• Moving checklist
   
• Packing tips
   
• Post-move tasks