If you’re approaching the daunting task of packing up the house for a move, it’s hard to know where to start. Putting your life in boxes can even be a little scary.
Yet packing doesn’t have to be such a chore when you take the time to do it well. Protect your valuables and fragile items when you wrap and pack with care.
Check out these pro tips for keeping your breakables safe during a move.
Breakables You May Not Consider
Moving is a hassle, which may be the reason fewer Americans choose to take that step. Start early, take time to walk through the house before the packing frenzy, and take note of breakable items. After you start packing everything else, it’s easy to rush through and hastily pack your breakables.
Look for fragile items you might not ordinarily consider to be delicate, but that might need special protection during the move. There’s a certain sense of emotional loss when you move, without breaking special items and compounding the problem. Glassware and dishes are no-brainers, but wooden figurines and other antique items are delicate, too, even if they’re not made of glass.
Best Packing Material
Bubble wrap makes excellent packing material. Buy rolls of bubble wrap at the home improvement store or shipping supplier. Or save bubble wrap in the months leading up to your move, although you may not collect enough to wrap everything.
For a full list of packing items, here’s a handy list. Newspaper and packing paper are essential tools when packing fragile items.
Specialty boxes like dish packs are ideal for packing things like plates. If you aren’t using specialty boxes, make sure you have plenty of bubble wrap and packing paper for wrapping items and providing a cushion for your items in the box.
Everyday items like dish towels, pillows, and blankets can also be used for padding and protection inside the box.
Wrap and Pack Like a Pro
Some fragile items require slightly different packaging techniques, but the primary approach is the same.
Plates and Glassware
Wrap the fragile item in a layer of paper, then in multiple layers of bubble wrap. Secure the wrapping with tape. For glassware, also tuck paper inside the glass for added protection.
Prepare your small or medium-sized box by reinforcing the bottom with packing tape. Then on the inside of the box, place a good layer of bubble wrap or crumpled packing paper on the bottom for cushioning. Set the wrapped items in the box and fill the remaining space snuggly with packing material.
Pack plates vertically and use cardboard in between to make sure they have the cushion they need.
Glassware is typically smaller, but heavier when stacked. It’s okay to layer the items in the box. Make sure to place the heaviest glasses on the bottom and the lighter ones on the top. Place a piece of pliable cardboard in between each layer.
Close the box and give it a little shake to make sure there is no movement. If shifting occurs, open the box and add more packing material. Then seal the box with packing tape and label it “Fragile.”
Furniture and Other Items
Other delicate items are harder to work with, especially if they don’t fit in conventional moving boxes. For furniture, protect each piece with moving blankets and covers to prevent scratches and dings.
To pack a TV, use the box it came in. If you don’t have the original box, ask your moving company or check at a local supply store for the appropriate size. Televisions are challenging to move safely and require special attention.
Be Your Own Packing Expert
Whether it’s grandma’s china or the expensive bed frame, you scrimped and saved for, wrap and pack each of your delicate items with care. These tips will help you preserve your items, so they’re as good as new when you reach your new home.
If you’re still concerned about protecting your breakables, get help from the professionals. Here’s everything to expect from a moving service like Browning Moving and Storage.