It is an often repeated mantra that packing is probably the most important part of every removal. Well, this is mostly true. And while packing your regular household items before your move could be pretty stressful and strenuous, when it comes to preparing fragile or high-value items for a move can be even more complex.
What constitutes a high-value/fragile item
Just a few examples to give you an idea about the types of items that we are talking about here:
- China
- Cutlery
- Art
- Antiques
- Sensitive office equipment
- Decorative pieces
Those are not all of them, but more or less the same principles for packing apply to all fragile items. So, let’s move on to the actual guide.
Packing – what to do and what not to do
The first and more important step that you need to take if you want to ensure the successful transportation of your valuable and fragile items is to prepare well in advance. China and crystal, as well as art and other such items take quite a lot of time to pack, and it is never a good idea to rush things. So just start with the packing process as soon as possible.
The next thing to make sure is that you are supplied with the proper tools and materials. When it comes to fragile items, you do not have to be cheap. Just get durable double walled removal boxes, bubble wrap, scissors, packing paper etc. Make sure that you have enough of everything in all the right sizes. Professionals suggest that you estimate what amount of wrapping and boxes that you are going to require and then actually purchase 10 percent more of everything, just in case.
In order to be more specific, let’s see what the best ways to pack certain fragile items are. Plates are best pack in a vertical position. Use small or medium sized boxes and wrap each plate individually. Crystal and other glass items are to be individually wrapped with thick packing paper. When you put the pieces in the box, fill in any empty space with crumbled paper. As for art, and more specifically, paintings – put them in small or medium boxes (depending on the size of the piece itself) that you have lined with wrapping paper in advance.
Placing the already packed boxes in the van is another thing to take care of. Make sure that all boxes containing fragile items are clearly marked so that your movers know they are to be handled with extra care.
And one important reminder at the end
One thing that you should never forget is that if you feel overwhelmed by the preparations for your removal and you do not feel up to the task of packing your fragile items on your own, you can always count on professional services to get the job done for you. This will give you the peace of mind that you need that your goods will arrive at the assigned location safe and sound.