One of the most challenging things about moving is the packing. It is a time-consuming process, but in order to prevent the risk of damages, especially to fragile items, it is important to take the time and pack your items correctly. Protecting your fragile items during the packing process will keep them safe during transportation and while the boxes are being loaded and unloaded. Here are a few tips on the best packing materials to use and how to pack fragile items and valuables:
Packing Materials
It’s easy to take shortcuts when you don’t have the correct materials on hand. Before you begin packing, you should have all of the packing supplies you will need to effectively complete the task. The packing materials you choose should be able to handle the shock and vibrations that often occur during transportation. Some of the supplies you will need include:
- Durable cardboard boxes or plastic bins with lids
- Bubble wrap
- Packing tape
- Permanent markers
- Tissue paper, newspaper and/or packing paper
- Peanuts, inflatable cushioning and/or towels
How to Pack Fragile Items
Before you begin, make sure to have plenty of space to work and have your packing supplies nearby. Categorize items according to type and size. For example, small items such as figurines are one group, while dinnerware is another group; avoid packing dinner plates in the same box as a vase. When packing:
- Glasses: wrap each glass individually with sturdy paper, such as packing paper. Stuff crumpled paper inside of the glass for extra protection. Line the bottom of the packing container with towels or several layers of packing paper. Layer the glasses in the box starting the heaviest items and using crumpled paper in between the layers.
- Plates: place a layer of bubble wrap in the bottom of the box and wrap each plate separately with bubble wrap. When placing the plates in the box, they should be packed vertically, not stacked! Remember, do not over pack the box. Once the box is full, stuff newspaper, small towels or bubble wrap on the sides and top of the plates.
- Glass or Porcelain Figurines: a great way to pack small items is in an egg carton. Make sure the figurines will fit snug in the egg carton and that the lid will close completely. If you have items that are oddly shaped or too large for an egg carton, wrap each item with bubble wrap and pack in the smallest box possible for the items to fit in. Cushion the bottom, top and sides of the box with towels, bubble wrap or newspaper.
Sealing the Box
Once the items have been properly packed and cushioned inside the box, make sure to seal the box with heavy duty packing tape. Using a permanent marker, write what items are in the box and clearly write the word “fragile” on the top and sides of the box. All boxes that are marked fragile should be grouped together and make sure to let the movers know that you have fragile items.
Before you begin packing and moving, it is important to take a complete inventory of all of your items, especially the fragile and valuable items. If you haven’t done so already, take photos of your valuables in case they are lost, misplaced, broken or stolen during the move. Although it is important to mark the boxes containing fragile items clearly, do not write the word valuables on any box or moving container. The best way to make sure your valuables are safe is to take them with you. But, if this isn’t possible, pack the items in a small box and label it with something that will help you remember what is in the box.
Whether you need help packing and/or moving, call the experts at Patriot Relocation Company when you’re ready to get your move started this spring!