Fragile items regularly have substantial economic or sentimental value. In order to protect and continue to treasure these items for many years, it is essential to be extremely careful when moving house.
Following these tips will ensure that your fragile items are protected:
- Allocate enough time
One of the main reasons for breaks and damages made to fragile items is being in a rush. Take your time when it comes to packing fragile items as they generally necessitate a little extra TLC. Initiate the packing process well in advance of moving day, so that your fragile items remain undamaged and you stay stress-free.
- Make use of the correct packing materials
To safeguard your fragile items from knocks, bumps, and vibrations, you will need to use packaging that can endure being moved by hand, car or moving van. Blankets, towels, and clothing are frequently used to pack fragile items, however, these materials do not keep their cushioning ability very well. Investing in materials that will preserve your valuables in perfect condition is recommended.
Packing materials that have proved to be effective can include:
- Moving boxes – that are designed to hold possessions efficiently
- Loose fill – aimed at filling the empty spaces in a box and prevents damage from occurring
- Heavy-duty paper – used to blanket objects or be padded into a box
- Ribbed fibreboard – designed to offer structured cushioning
- Polystyrene structures – made to fit around an object for cushioning
- Bubble wrap – used to protect and wrap around objects neatly
- Original packaging – ideal for providing maximum protection for bought items (if you possibly kept it)
- Organise your items accordingly
Once you have the suitable materials, it is essential that you pack your items appropriately. Each item will require a technique best suits each item individually.
Tips for packing common fragile goods:
- Plates: Place one plate on a sheet of packing paper and fold it, covering the entire plate. Repeat this process with the other plates and stack them together. Position the stack of plates on its side within the box, cushioned with crumpled paper above and below the plates.
- Glasses: Put crumpled tissue paper inside each glass, then cover each glass with another sheet of tissue paper. Also, add a layer of newspaper to each glass.
- Lamps: First, detach the bulb and the shade from the lamp. Cover the stand in a newspaper, with heavy-duty packing paper filling any spaces and then lay it sideways in the box with crumpled paper cushioning it. Then wrap the light bulb in your bubble wrap and the shade in a newspaper and store them separately.
- Clearly mark every box
Make sure that you write FRAGILE on each box with delicate items in them. Also, specify which way the box should be moved and stored.
- Have a clear line of communication with movers
When your movers arrive, notify them of which boxes have fragile items and need special care taken when moving them.
By using these guidelines, you can ensure that your fragile items will make it to your new home in an unspoiled condition. Better Moves offers removal and storage services in Gauteng. Enquire with Better Moves today for a stress-free removal of your fragile items today.
