Worried that your fragile items might not survive the trip to your new digs? Relax. Pack fragile items safely by following some simple packing tips.
To get started, all you need are the right tools. The following moving supplies are musts for moving fragile objects:
•Newsprint
•Packing or masking tape
•Markers
•Bubble wrap
•Cardboard boxes
•Styrofoam peanuts
•Stretch plastic wrap
Glassware and china
When it comes to packing fragile plates or collectibles, the key is to give each item individual attention before stowing it away in a box.
Start by preparing a cardboard box, securing the bottom with packing tape. (Wooden boxes are also good options.) Use as small a box as possible for the items — even if that means you’ll use three smaller boxes to pack your entire china collection. Smaller boxes are lighter, and therefore easier to carry. If you’re packing stemware, get a special stemware box from a moving store. These boxes provide individual slots for glasses.
Next add a shock-absorbing layer of bubble wrap to the bottom of your box. Then wrap each individual fragile item in bubble wrap or newsprint. (Use blank newsprint for your glasses and dishes. Since it doesn’t have ink on it, it won’t stain or dirty your china.) Stack the wrapped items in your box — heavier items on the bottom, lighter items on the top — taking care not to overstuff it. Finally, pour in Styrofoam peanuts to fill up empty spaces and provide secondary cushioning.
After you tape up your box, mark it as fragile. You may even want to wrap it with red fragile tape (available at large moving stores) to make it easily identifiable. Professional movers will save these fragile boxes for last. If you’re moving yourself, do the same. And for truly priceless fragile items, transport them in the car where you’ll have more control over the bumpiness of the ride.
Mirrors and artwork
The glass in framed artwork or mirrors can shift around during a move, so it’s best to tape it. Apply masking tape in a star pattern on the glass to prevent sliding and safeguard against injury should the glass break during transit.
After the glass is secured, protect corners from dings with Styrofoam corner protectors (available at moving stores) or wrap the entire piece in bubble wrap, if possible.
If you plan on transporting your artwork in the car, the bubble wrap may be all the protective cushion you need. However, if you plan to pack fragile art or mirrors on a moving truck, buy an artwork box or crate. These slotted boxes prevent pieces from rubbing together.
Electronics
When it comes to moving fragile electronics, their original containers are the best protective packaging. But if you can’t find the original boxes, you can still pack electronics safely. Choose a box that’s slightly larger than your component, and layer it with bubble wrap or Styrofoam peanuts before and after inserting individual pieces.
Before you pack fragile electronics, make sure they’re empty of CDs or DVDs. And when it comes to your computer, back up all of your important files just to be safe. Don’t forget to secure any of the moving parts on your components with stretch plastic wrap. While you’re at it, make unpacking easier by labeling any wires or adapters before you put them into a box.
Furniture
Stretch plastic wrap is your best friend when it comes to moving fragile furniture. Wrapping the plastic around your furniture protects against dirt and scratches. It also prevents drawers from sliding out.
Before you load your fragile furniture on the moving truck, make sure you’ve covered its legs or casters. These delicate pieces are susceptible to breaks, so guard them with bubble wrap. Load these heavy items on the truck first and cover them with furniture blankets to provide cushioning.
Unloading
Pack fragile items safely and securely, and there’ll be no regrets when you unload. A little planning can also make the process go by quicker: take a moment to label each box’s final room destination when you pack, and you’ll know exactly where it should end up in your new place without having to open the box.
