One of the biggest concerns many people have when they are packing for a big move is whether or not their fragile items are going to make it through the move safely. Maybe it’s a set of china you love, a teacup collection from your grandmother, or a gorgeous vase you purchase on a long-ago vacation.
Whatever your precious items might be, our residential moving team has 10 tips to help you properly pack those items so they arrive in perfect condition to their next destination.
#1. Use the right packing materials when packaging fragile items
How to properly pack fragile items? Gather the right supplies to pack fragile items. Use the correct materials for each object. Packing a fragile item like glassware is different from packing a television.
What are the essential packing materials and supplies to keep on hand?
- This material is used to fill empty spaces within boxes. Packing peanuts protect items in boxes by absorbing shocks and vibrations.
- Choose the right size of bubble wrap.
- Furniture pads and padded inserts are great for protecting larger, more fragile items such as heavy furniture. They can also protect glassware or other large objects. These pads keep items in the right place.
- Paper is a simple, affordable way to pack glassware and fragile items. Many people will use newspaper instead of packing paper. It can, however, leave marks on your goods.
#2. Put glass and ceramics in small boxes
Vases, china cups or other fragile glasses can be safely stored in small boxes. Wrap each item in bubble wrap or packing paper before placing it in the small box. The more tightly you pack each box, then the less space the items have to move around during transit.
#3. Label boxes as “fragile”
When packing fragile items, you’ll need to mark the box “fragile”. You should write “fragile”, in large letters, on the sides of the box so that anyone can see it.
Consider buying a sharpie in black or red to make your “fragile label” stand out. Consider purchasing different tapes, like red or pink to draw attention to breakable boxes.
#4. Place the heaviest items at the bottom of the box
You would never place a carton of eggs under a bag of dog food when you go grocery shopping. This same principle applies to packing fragile items when moving. When you begin to pack your boxes, place the heavier items at bottom, and the lighter, more delicate items at top. When you load your moving truck, use the same principle.
Consider using portable storage containers to store your breakables. You will have more time to pack your breakables without having to hire professional movers.
#5. Wrap items and add protection
Wrap fragile items carefully in packing paper, bubble wrap or tissue paper. Use towels or blankets to cover picture frames and TVs. Use tape or bungee cords to secure blankets and towels around larger items. This will ensure that they have the best chance of arriving intact.
#6. Stack fragile items if you can
Items that are fragile, such as plates and bowls, can be stacked to reduce the chance of damage. Place a piece of solid cardboard at the bottom. Then, stack packing paper or bubble wrap between each bowl or plate. Seal the stack of 4-5 bowls or plates with packing tape.
#7. Use original packaging for TVs and monitors
It’s time to make use of the original boxes that came with your TVs, monitors and other electronic devices. Original boxes will help protect your electronics during a move.
If you threw the original boxes away, start by removing the cables and wrapping the screen in bubble wrap. Label each item so you can track it during the reassembly.
Bubble wrap should be used to protect all screens, as they are very fragile. Cover the bubble wrap using a thick blanket or towel and secure the bubble wrap to the item by a cord or rope.
#8. Disassemble bulky furniture
If you are trying to pack your home up quickly, you may be tempted to skip this step. But be sure to take apart large and bulky furniture before moving them. This makes it easier to move the furniture through the door frame and onto and off of the moving truck. Wrap each piece of furniture in bubble wrap, and then secure it with tape.
If you’re moving a mirror, you can use bubble wrap to sandwich between the layers of cardboard and inner and outer layers of a mirror. The same method can be used to pack fragile artwork and paintings. These items should be kept upright when moving.
#9. Fill hollow items with packing paper
Use packing paper (not newspaper) on vases, jars or canisters to prevent cracks. If it’s safe, you can stack individual wrapped items, like mixing bowls and glasses, together to save on space. This is not a good idea for identical glasses, as they may get stuck. Fill the empty spaces in boxes with packing peanuts or towels to keep things from moving.
#10. Use bubble wrap and cardboard dividers for glasses
Separate glassware with cardboard dividers, or use special boxes. Special boxes are needed to protect glasses from breaking due to their shape and pressure point. Wrap the stems of wine glasses in bubble wrap, then wrap them all in paper and finally bubble wrap.
If your items are heavy and large, you can either use larger bubbles or wrap them in multiple layers. When packing glass, you can never be too careful, especially if the item is sentimental or valuable.
MOVING? Contact Abe Lincoln Movers today
If you need help packing fragile items, our expert moving team can assist. Our team can even help you with packing fragile items.
We have completed countless moves throughout the Chicagoland region, treating each customer’s belongings like our own. We offer transparent pricing that won’t impact your budget and take pride in our excellent customer service.
Contact us at any time for a free moving quote!