Prefer not to leave your phone number?
No problem!
Schedule an Appointment at your Convenience
(Only email is required)
Schedule an AppointmentOr Call / Text
800-333-3434
By:
Last Updated: Oct 19, 2023
Prioritize proper packing and cushioning, invest in quality packing materials, and use custom crates when needed. Hire professional movers to ensure a productive transition.
Moving often feels like a nerve-wracking experience, but the stakes can feel even higher when it comes to delicate items. Whether relocating across the city or undertaking an interstate move, the thought of damaging your fragile possessions on course keeps you on edge.
Chances are you own some delicate items. Here is the big question: How do you ensure your grandmother’s antique china or that fragile piece of glass artwork survives the transit unscathed? Don’t worry! Our expert tips will make moving a breeze.
Carefully pack delicate items and employ our expert tips to make the experience as hassle-free as possible. We’ll unravel valuable insights and strategies on how to handle your delicate items so you can confidently embark on your interstate move. Let’s get started.
In this article
Planning and preparing lays the foundations for your interstate move. Fragile objects demand extra care and cautious handling; thus, prepare yourself early and avoid the last-minute scramble.
Before diving into packing, make a list of your delicate belongings. These may include fragile glassware, electronics, antiques, fragile artwork, porcelain figurines, and anything that demands gentle handling.
Once you identify your stock, sort and group them, such strategies ensure overall protection since you’ll deal with similar items in one box.
No rush! Take time to plan and strategize.
It is important to choose your packing materials wisely. Think of it as a suit of armor for your fragile items. Don’t skimp; invest in high-quality products. High-quality materials distinguish between your delicate objects arriving in one piece or pieces.
Splurge a bit on:
Explore options from your nearest stores or acquire from reputable online retailers (like Amazon).
However, the most optimal source for such necessities lies with specialized cross-country movers. You can rely on these experts to provide you with a thorough understanding of your needs.
Safeguarding your fragile treasures is just like wrapping a precious gift. It’s all about the protection layers utilized for each item. Bubble wrap and packing paper or peanuts are essential to keep delicate items safe.
Think of packing layers or packing peanuts as your unsung hero. It’s your first line of defense that cradles your delicate items and shields them from jolts, shock, and bumps. Use more padding to create a cozy nest in the box for your fragile possessions.
Bubble wrap is your trusty sidekick, your go-to for extra cushioning. Utilize it to wrap your items snugly and ensure they’re cocooned securely without room for movement. You don’t want them to collide and break.
Choosing the appropriate boxes for your delicate items is like finding that one perfect puzzle piece to fill in. Don’t just take any old or thrown box and use it; it’s vital to get the fit ideally.
Don’t stick to one box size; consider an assortment. Which one will fit the sizable fragile mirror? Can a box mailer fit my grandpa’s souvenir? Where will I roll and put my artwork? These are the questions you should ask yourselves while purchasing the boxes. Talk to the store attendants to help you sort a variety of boxes.
Don’t pack carelessly; consider the weight of different fragile items. Pack heavy items in small boxes to manage the weight and ensure proper stacking. For lighter items, utilize large boxes to maximize the space of your boxes without overloading them.
If you’re relocating on a tight budget, you’ll probably acquire card boxes to save some money. It’s okay; however, you need to be more careful since these boxes have their limits. Overpacking them is like pushing the car beyond its horsepower. The box could get torn before or after loading with your cherished items.
We strongly encourage you to invest in heavy-duty, sturdy boxes. The last thing you want is a damaged box; with these, any weight can be handled, and extra protection provided.
On the flip side, under-packed boxes can be a real hazard. You shouldn’t leave a room where the items can wiggle and bump into each other. Use packing peanuts or paper to fill the empty spaces and keep everything snug.
For plates, glassware, and dishes, wrap them with bubble wrap and secure them with packing tape. Keenly pack them vertically (due to their platform to reduce surface area) in specific boxes.
You should aim to create a shock-absorbing fortress in the box. For that case, place crumpled packing paper beneath, between, and on top of these pieces.
If you can find some dish packs, it would even be better. These are designed with thicker walls and provide the best shield for your fragile dishware.
If you’ve delicate electronics, packing them with utmost care should be a priority, especially considering their value and importance.
First and foremost, don’t take chances without backing up your digital data. Messing up and losing all the data with a click or a disconnect is possible. If you don’t know how to handle them, please outsource long-distance movers with such expertise or hire electricians to help you handle them.
If you’re worried about rewiring everything correctly, take a picture before you unplug the electronics. Visual cues will guide you in rewiring, replugging, and reconnecting everything afresh.
If you still have the original electronic boxes, you’re lucky. Use them to fit and protect them perfectly.
Custom crates are your top-tier solution to move items that require high protection, like antiques or fine art.
For practical use, identify such items and take measurements to ensure they fit snugly in the crate. Look for professional crate builders. Share with them what you’re moving, and provide the measurements so they can build your crates
Once you get the crates, securely pad each item, seal them tight, and label them accordingly.
Dealing with oddly shaped and large delicate items is like fitting a square leg in a round hole. You just can’t find the right box to fit them.
How about you improvise a DIY clever solution? First, give them a bubble wrap hug. Ensure you cover all the angles and edges while wrapping. Don’t leave any vulnerable area exposed.
Second, provide flexible cardboard support. Place them on a pliable cardboard. Form a makeshift closure by gently bending them until they meet. For large pieces, use extra cardboard to sheath the entire delicate object.
Third, seal the entire package sturdy with your packing tape. Don’t miss an edge.
Make it clear what delicate items are contained in several boxes. You’re likely to have some people helping you; labeling will keep your helpers on the same page and prevent mishandling.
Reinforce box corners and seams with additional tape to ensure the boxes can withstand pressure during transit.
Doing everything right sometimes takes work. You have a lot to handle, and it’s easy to get engrossed in one area and overlook minor strategies. Why not hire best long-distance movers for your move?
Professional movers have the experience, efficiency, equipment, and expertise to execute any move you need. You can now relax and care for your new location and other needs.
Set enough time and research different moving companies within your reach. Consider evaluation criteria (like distance, the size of your belongings, additional services, and insurance) to ensure you land a reputable company.
Request multiple quotes and compare their service costs. Utilize the moving cost calculator on their website to assess the moving costs and match them with your budget.
Despite the company’s insurance coverage, you could also look for additional third-party insurance for more safety.
During transit, load your delicate items separately. Don’t keep the heavy items on top of lighter items; it won’t end well. On the moving track, you can add some extra cushioning (soft padding, blankets, or mattresses) to secure them in place and minimize collision.
When unloading, prioritize them first and unload them in an orderly manner.
If possible, transport them on a separate truck to minimize the risk of accidental damage.
Some of your delicate items might slip out or break as you pack, carry, or unload. You must be cautious to ensure safety and minimize further injuries and damage.
You need a strategic plan for adequate packing. Don’t focus solely on packing and remember you’ll have to get the items out. Pay attention to labeling during packing for easy unpacking.
After unpacking, assess recyclables (in case damages occur), discard damaged ones, and keep the packing materials for future use. If you have insurance coverage, inspect the damage and file your claims.
Proper handling, care, and safe transportation of delicate items can significantly minimize potential damages. You’re the only one who can ensure the overall protection of your precious items. For this reason, prepare in advance, track any potential issues, pack thoughtfully, and prioritize safe transit.
Lily is a skilled writer with over a decade of experience in the moving industry. Having worked for several moving companies and brokers, she has gained extensive knowledge of the ins and outs of the industry. With her personal experience of moving several times, she understands the challenges that come with relocating and can provide invaluable insights to her readers. Her writing style is informative, engaging, and relatable, making her a go-to source for all things moving-related. Trust her to guide you through your next move with ease.