If you’re planning to move, we understand how stressful it can be. From gathering the right supplies to keeping track of your moving timeline, both the packing and moving process can be tedious and overwhelming. Even the smallest details need to be carefully accounted for to ensure that the move goes off without a hitch.
The packing process shouldn’t be rushed, as it can protect your fragile and beloved items from becoming damaged during the chaos of the move. If you’re looking for guidance on the best way to pack your fragile items, keep reading for advice from our experts.
#1. USE THE RIGHT MATERIALS FOR PACKING FRAGILE ITEMS
How to pack fragile items starts with compiling the right materials. Different fragile items mean you’ll need different materials to safely pack them. For example, electronic equipment means you’ll need to use a different packing method than you’d use for your fine china or glassware.
Here are some basic supplies to have on hand:
- Packaging peanuts: This material is used to fill empty spaces in inboxes. Packaging peanuts are designed to withstand any shocks or vibrations in the box and can help protect the items inside.
- Bubble wrap: Simply wrap your items with a layer of bubble wrap and secure it with packing tape. Bubble wrap comes in different sizes so make sure to choose accordingly.
- Furniture pads or padded inserts: Furniture pads and padded inserts can help protect your larger fragile items such as furniture or larger glassware. The pads also keep your items in their proper place.
- Paper: Packing paper is a simple and affordable method of packing your glassware and other smaller valuables. Keep in mind that many people are tempted to use newspaper to replace packing paper, but it can leave behind marks on your items.
#2. PUT GLASS AND CERAMICS IN SMALL BOXES
Small boxes for fragile items are an ideal method for keeping vases, plates, china cups, or other glasses safe. Consider wrapping each item individually in packing paper or bubble wrap before you put it into the small box. The tighter you pack each box, the less room there is for the items to move during transit.
#3. MARK BOXES AS FRAGILE
Whenever you are packing fragile items, you’ll want to carefully label the box as fragile. Instead of writing only on one side or the top of the box, you’ll want to cover all of your bases. Make sure that you write it on all sides and in big letters so it is apparent to anyone that the box shouldn’t be dropped, smooshed, or handled roughly.
If you don’t already have a black or red sharpie, consider buying one to help your “fragile” label stand out that much more. You could also consider buying different tape such as red or pink to draw more attention to the breakable boxes.
#4. PUT HEAVIER THINGS ON THE BOTTOM OF THE BOX
When you go grocery shopping, you’d never put a carton of eggs underneath a bag of dog food. The same concept applies to packing. As you start to put your boxes together, you’ll want to place heavier items on the bottom and lighter, more fragile items on the top. The same philosophy holds when you are loading your moving truck.
Consider investing in portable storage as a separate space to pack your breakables. This will give you more time to organize the moving container without the added pressure or expense of paying for professional movers.
#5. WRAP ITEMS AND ADD PROTECTION
Make sure that you’ve carefully wrapped all of your fragile items in bubble wrap, tissue paper, or packing paper depending on what the item is. You can also utilize towels and blankets to wrap items like your tv and any pieces of art. To be extra safe, you can use tape or bungee cords to secure the blankets or towels onto the larger items so they don’t fall off during the move.
Once the items are wrapped, you’ll want to allow space between the items to slip in cardboard dividers. Fill in any excess space with styrofoam pads or packing peanuts to reduce the risk of damage. Remember, if you don’t want to wrap and pack items on your own, you can always hire a team that offers packing services.
#6. STACK YOUR FRAGILE ITEMS WHEREVER POSSIBLE
Fragile item storage like plates and bowls can be stacked together to reduce the risk of damage. Start by placing a strong piece of cardboard at the bottom of the box. From there, take packing paper or a piece of bubble wrap and stack it between each plate or bowl. Take 4-5 plates or bowls and seal the stack with packing tape.
#7. PACK TVS AND MONITORS INTO THEIR ORIGINAL BOXES
If you still have the original boxes for your televisions, monitors, and other electronics, now is the time to put them to use. Using the original boxes can help keep your electronics safe during the move.
If you don’t have the boxes, start by removing the cables and wrapping them in a layer of bubble wrap. Make sure to carefully label each grouping with a sharpie so you don’t lose track of where it goes when starting the reassembly process.
All screens should be carefully wrapped with bubble wrap as they are the most fragile component. Follow the bubble wrap with a thick towel or blanket and secure it onto the electronic with a rope or cord.
#8. DISASSEMBLE BULKY FURNITURE
If you have large, bulky furniture, make sure you take it apart before you move. This will make it easier to transport the pieces through the door frame and on and off the moving truck. Once you’ve taken apart the furniture into smaller pieces, carefully wrap each piece in bubble wrap and secure it with packing tape.
In the case that you have a mirror to transport, you’ll want to add a large piece of cardboard to the inner and outer layers, sandwiching a piece of bubble wrap between. Use the same system for packing fragile paintings and artwork. If possible, keep these items upright during the move.
CONTACT ALL EDGEWATER MOVERS TODAY
Packing fragile items may seem daunting, but with the above tips and guidance, the process isn’t as overwhelming as it seems. If you’re looking for hands-on assistance in packing fragile items, our team at All Edgewater Movers is here to help! We always offer straightforward pricing that will not impact your budget and we pride ourselves on our excellent customer service.
For a moving & storage quote, please reach out to us directly!
