Items that Need Special Care During a Move
Moving to a new home is an exciting time, but it also comes with the responsibility of safely transporting your belongings. While all items should be handled carefully during a move, particular possessions require special attention due to their fragile nature, high value, or sentimental significance. This blog post will explore a comprehensive list of items that need special care during a move and provide tips on ensuring their safe transport. By following these guidelines, you can minimise the risk of damage and enjoy a smooth transition to your new home.
Fragile Items
Fragile items such as glassware, china, ceramics, and delicate decorations need extra care during a move. Start by wrapping each piece individually with packing paper or bubble wrap. Even toilet paper rolls or paper towels can be used during the packing process.
Use sturdy boxes and place paddings, such as foam peanuts or packing blankets, at the bottom and between items to prevent shifting. One of the most common packing tips includes labeling the boxes as “fragile” to alert the movers and ensure they handle them cautiously. Additionally, consider using specialised dish packs or cell dividers for stemware or fragile dishware to provide added protection. If you don’t have these, you can ask the moving company to pack these items for you before you move to the new house.
Electronics
Electronic devices are sensitive and can be easily damaged if not handled properly. Before disassembling any electronics, take photos of the wiring setup to simplify reassembly. If possible, use the original packaging for each device. Otherwise, wrap each item in anti-static bubble wrap and secure it in a sturdy box. Fill any empty spaces with packing material to prevent movement during transit. Label the cardboard boxes clearly and indicate that they contain electronics. For valuable or delicate equipment, such as cameras or high-end audio systems, consider using shockproof cases or custom-made wooden crates for maximum protection.
Artwork and Mirrors
Artwork, paintings, framed photographs, and mirrors require special care to prevent scratches, cracks, or breakage. Start packing by using acid-free tissue paper to cover the surface of each piece to protect it from scratches. Place the items between two pieces of sturdy cardboard or foam boards, securing them with packing tape. Consider using mirror cartons or specialised art crates for larger details, which provide extra cushioning and protection. Clearly label the boxes as “fragile” and indicate that they contain artwork or mirrors to ensure careful handling as items are moved around the entire house or unloaded from the moving truck.
Antiques and Collectibles
Antiques and collectibles hold monetary and sentimental value, making their safe transport essential. Consult with professionals specialising in moving such items to ensure they are handled with the utmost care. Custom crates or specialty packing materials may be necessary depending on the item’s fragility and value. Document the condition of each piece before the move and take photographs as evidence for insurance purposes. Transport valuable antiques in your vehicle to maintain complete control over their safety if possible.
Musical Instruments
Musical instruments, such as pianos, guitars, or delicate brass and woodwind instruments, require special attention during a move. It is recommended to hire professional movers experienced in handling musical instruments. They possess the necessary expertise, equipment, and techniques to ensure proper packing and transportation. For pianos, professional piano movers will disassemble, pad, and secure the instrument for safe transport. Delicate instruments like guitars should be placed in hard-shell cases and further protected with bubble wrap or padding.
Valuables and Important Documents
Valuables such as jewellery, important documents, passports, and sentimental items should be kept with you during the move. Please place them in a secure bag or box you can carry, minimising the risk of loss or damage during transportation. Consider using a fireproof and waterproof safe or lockbox for added protection. Keep these items in a designated spot easily accessible throughout the moving process.
Plants
Plants require special care during a move. Some plants may not survive long-distance transportation, while others may be subject to regulations in certain areas—research local laws and regulations regarding the transportation of plants. If possible, give away or donate plants to friends, family, or local organisations before the move. For plants, you intend to take with you, prepare them by watering them adequately and providing enough light and ventilation during transportation. Avoid exposing plants to extreme temperatures, and be mindful of their specific care requirements throughout the journey.
Wine and Alcohol Bottles
If you have a collection of wine or alcohol bottles, they require special care during a move. Properly packing and protecting them is crucial to avoid breakage. Use wine bottle shipping boxes or specially designed wine bottle sleeves to provide cushioning and prevent movement. Ensure each bottle is individually wrapped with bubble wrap or foam to protect them from potential impact. Label the boxes as “fragile” and “this side up” to alert the movers to handle them carefully. It’s important to note that some moving companies may have restrictions on transporting alcohol, so check their policies beforehand.
Large Appliances
Large appliances such as refrigerators, washers, dryers, and stoves require careful preparation for a move. Start by disconnecting and cleaning each appliance thoroughly. Secure any loose parts or accessories, and consider using zip ties or tape to keep doors or lids closed during transport. For refrigerators and freezers, defrost them at least 24 hours before and clean out any food or liquids—ideally, transport appliances upright to prevent damage to internal components. If necessary, consult the user manuals or manufacturer’s guidelines for specific instructions on moving each appliance. Hiring experienced professionals to handle and transport large appliances to ensure their safe arrival may be helpful.
Sensitive Documents and Digital Storage Devices
Sensitive documents, including legal papers, financial records, and personal identification documents, should be kept secure during a move. Please place them in labelled folders or envelopes and keep them with you in a secure bag or box. For digital storage devices such as external hard drives or USBs, back up your data before the move and consider keeping them with you to prevent loss or damage. It’s essential to personally handle sensitive documents and digital devices to ensure their security and confidentiality when moving house.
Conclusion
Taking extra precautions when handling fragile items and valuables is important when moving. Taking the time to pack and protect these items properly can help ensure their safe transportation. To further ensure a stress-free move, consider hiring experienced professionals like Optimove, who specialise in taking the stress out of your move. Their trained staff has the expertise to handle delicate items carefully and ensure their safe arrival. With Optimove, you can rest assured that assured your possessions will be in good hands.
With proper planning and preparation, moving fragile items and valuables – even large moving boxes can be made more accessible. Following these tips will help secure a stress-free move so you can enjoy a successful relocation.
