Packing boxes and fragile items can be nerve-wracking! The goal of every move is to have nothing damaged, especially the glass passed down to you by your family.
Here are some best practices to keep your fragile items safe during the move:
1. Gather the Right Supplies
Before you start packing, make sure you have all the necessary supplies. These include sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, packing peanuts, and strong packing tape. Having suitable materials will provide the necessary protection for your fragile items. You can find quality boxes and supplies at https://www.uhaul.com/MovingSupplies/.
2. Use the Right Box Sizes
Use smaller boxes for heavier fragile items like dishes and glassware. Larger boxes can be used for lighter items. This helps distribute the weight evenly and prevents the boxes from becoming too heavy to handle.
3. Cushion the Bottom of the Box
Before placing any items in the box, add a layer of cushioning material, such as packing peanuts or crumpled packing paper, to the bottom. This provides a base layer of protection against impacts.
4. Wrap Each Item Individually
Wrap each fragile item individually with bubble wrap or packing paper. For extra protection, you can double-wrap particularly delicate items. Secure the wrapping with tape to ensure it stays in place.
5. Fill in Empty Spaces
Once the items are placed in the box, fill any empty spaces with packing peanuts or crumpled paper. This prevents the items from shifting during transit, reducing the risk of breakage.
6. Label Boxes as Fragile
Clearly label all boxes containing fragile items with the word “FRAGILE” on all sides. This alerts movers to handle these boxes with extra care. You can buy labels for each room here on Amazon
7. Pack Plates and Glasses Vertically
Place plates and glasses vertically in the box rather than stacking them flat when packing them. This reduces the pressure on each item and lowers the risk of breakage.
8. Avoid Overpacking Boxes
Do not overpack boxes, as this can lead to items being crushed. Leave some space at the top of the box and add a final cushioning layer before sealing it.
9. Seal Boxes Securely
Use strong packing tape to seal the boxes securely. Reinforce the bottom and top seams with extra tape to ensure the box stays intact during the move.
10. Consider Professional Packing Services
Consider hiring professional packing services if you have valuable or extremely fragile items. They have the expertise and materials to ensure your items are packed safely.
By following these best practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage to your fragile items during your move. Happy moving!
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