How To Pack Fragile Items For Your Next Move

Moving is a pain, but the only thing that makes it worse is when you arrive at your destination and start unpacking, only to find out that your family's precious heirlooms have been smashed in the back of the moving truck. It's a devastating scenario, but one that is completely unavoidable if you prepare for the move the right way.

1. Less is More (and Vice Versa)

One of the biggest errors that people make before their residential moving experience is stuffing every box to the brim. Furniture movers see it all the time: big, bulging boxes that are overpacked and have uneven edges, usually secured with several layers of tape. Instead, commit to putting less inside of every box, and using more boxes than you think are necessary. Stuff packing material in the open space around your belongings to keep them from shifting around during the move. Also, remember that cardboard boxes don't last forever either; if you're relying on old boxes to carry your most precious belongings, you'll be sorely disappointed when they fall apart in transit.

2. Wrap Certain Items Individually

Some things can just be thrown into a box with everything else, but plates, lamps, and other breakable items need to be wrapped separately and placed inside boxes with similar items. Most residential moving companies offer packing as a part of their furniture moving services, so if you're unsure about certain items, let them handle it for you.

3. Consider Climate Control

If your move takes longer than a day, consider upgrading your truck or storage unit to one that's climate-controlled, especially if you're moving during the hot summer months. Moisture can get inside of the plastic and ruin your leather and wood items, so make sure you keep it at even temperature unless you're going straight to your new location within a day or two.

4. Use Different Packing Materials

Sometimes, bubble wrap just won't do the job. Though it's perfect for filling up extra space inside of boxes to keep them from jiggling, residential moving experts will use a variety of material to secure your belongings, such as cardboard, packing paper, and even blankets. It really depends on what it is you're trying to move: packing paper and bubble wrap can help with overall shock absorption, but an extra layer of cardboard wrapped around the fragile item can help secure it in one place to keep from bouncing around the box. Examine your setup and improvise to come up with the best overall solution.

For more tips, reach out to a residential moving company near you.