It’s important to take your time when packing and stock up on the right supplies to prevent damages. Start packing as early as possible so you don’t have to rush. Investing in the proper supplies will also make a big difference.
Also, be sure to always mark fragile items very clearly and specify which end something should be carried and stored so there are no accidents.
The following are the most at-risk items for damage during a move and how you can protect them.
At-Risk Items During a Move
Glassware, China, and Pottery
All your fragile, breakable items are at high-risk of damage during a move if they aren’t properly packed and handled. This commonly includes glassware, china, and pottery. You should use thick, small boxes for these items which you can buy inserts for that will keep glasses and dishes protected. Use thick packing paper and bubble wrap to keep everything secure and fill in gaps to prevent shifting during transit.
Mirrors
Both the glass and frame of a mirror can get scratched, chipped, or shattered without the right care. The best solution is to use boxes that are made to fit the size of your mirror. Wrap the mirror in packing paper and bubble wrap, then fill in any gaps in the box with paper. If you can’t find boxes of the correct size, wrap the mirror in bubble wrap and heavy moving blankets and tightly secure with tape or string.
Paintings and Artwork
The last thing you want is one of your valuable pieces of art ruined during a move with a hole or scratch. Like mirrors, wrap the art in packing paper and bubble wrap, then use moving boxes that are close to the size of the piece. Fill in any gaps with paper to prevent shifting. If you have a particularly valuable piece of art, you may want to consider hiring professional packers (which is a service we offer) or a special art removal company to take care of it for you.
Electronics
Your electronics are some of your most valuable possessions, so it’s important to keep them safe during a move. A good rule of thumb is to keep the boxes your electronics originally came in since they were specially made to protect them. Otherwise, carefully wrap everything with packing paper and use bubble wrap on particularly fragile items, like televisions. Be sure to dust off TV’s and computer monitors before packing them, as even small dust particles can scratch the screen. Also, label all the wires so you remember what goes where when you install it in the new home.
Furniture
Furniture often takes the brunt of the damage as it’s moved through hallways and doorways and around tight corners. Not only should you wrap all your furniture in shrink wrap and moving blankets, but it’s a good idea to also cover doorways and staircase railings with blankets for extra protection.
Plants
Plants can be tricky to move if they shed leaves easily. For house plants, stop watering them a couple of days before the move so they’re less likely to make a mess, then put them in boxes with air holes to keep them safe and oxygenated.