One of the most stressful parts of moving is trying to make sure your most prized possessions do not get damaged in the process.
This could include expensive china, vases, artwork, electronics, or any other valuable items.
As a company with over four generations of experience in the industry, we’ve seen our fair share of valuable items.
This extensive experience has given us valuable insight into the best ways to keep your belongings safe. Here are 7 helpful tips for moving delicate/fragile items.
1. Decide What You Need to Keep
Before even beginning the packing process, it’s important to take some time to decide what things you actually want to keep. For example, many people own a set of expensive china, but it has never seen the outside of their cupboards.
If this is the case, you might want to consider decluttering and perhaps selling any unused valuable items before you go through the trouble of moving them. Here are some websites that make the selling process extremely simple:
Who knows, you might just end up with some extra cash in your pocket!
2. Use The Proper Packaging
Once you decide what you’re going to keep and what you’re going to sell, it’s time to begin the packing process.
In order to protect any of your delicate items, it’s crucial that you use the right packing containers and materials. Depending on the item, different packaging may be required. For example, china barrels are constructed out of double-walled cardboard to help keep china and glassware safe.
There are also special boxes for breakable items like T.V’s and mirrors.
For a full list of the different packing materials that exist and their recommended uses, please visit this page.
3. Label Your Containers
Labeling your boxes is a great way to make sure they are handled with the utmost care.
Boxes containing any delicate materials should have labels such as “DELICATE” or “BREAKABLE” on the sides and top.
When labeling boxes, make sure all words are large, legible, and written using a thick marker or pen.
This is especially helpful if you are getting help with your move from people who might not know about the delicate items that are getting transported.
4. Don’t Over-pack
Over-packing is one of the biggest contributors to damaged property during a move. It can be tempting to pack your boxes as full as possible so you can make fewer trips to and from the moving truck.
But when you’re moving fragile items, it’s best to adopt the mindset of less is more. Try to place your most valuable or breakable items in separate boxes, or at least use plenty of packing paper within each box.
5. Notify Movers Which Boxes Require Special Attention
If you’re anxious about movers handling boxes containing fragile items, feel free to warn them which boxes require special attention.
Most moving companies employ professionals who are trained in the best ways to handle these types of items and they will gladly take extra care with your precious belongings.
6. Wrap Items Individually
If you just place several fragile items in the same box with no wrapping or packing paper, there is a high probability that they will be damaged in transit. Bumps on the road or sharp turns can cause these items to make contact with each other, resulting in chips, scratches, or other imperfections.
To avoid this, make sure all items are wrapped individually.
7. Take Your Time!
Lastly, take your time when moving fragile items.
It’s far better to spend a few extra minutes packing each box now so that you won’t be left picking up the pieces of your breakable belongings later!
Need Help Moving Your Delicate Items – We’ve Seen it All!
Western Moving has over four generations of experience helping customers move their delicate and fragile items. We’ll make sure your possessions are protected and arrive at your new home in one piece. Contact us today to learn more!
