While moving into a new home can be incredibly exciting, it also tends to be hectic. Unfortunately, during the frenzy of coordinating logistics, details can get lost in the shuffle. One of the most easy-to-overlook tasks is packing up your valuables with care. All too often, homeowners don’t even think of it—until something gets damaged. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to protect your most precious possessions.
Try these quick tips for keeping your valuables safe while you move house….
General Tips
Ideally, you should start planning for the safe transport of your belongings early on. Here are a few key things to consider.
Take stock
It’s all too easy for items to get misplaced during a move—and it often takes time to realize they’re gone. That’s why the first step you should take is creating a detailed list of your most valuable belongings. You may also want to include photos in your inventory for insurance purposes.
Look into insurance
If protecting your valuables is a major priority, you may want to ask your moving company about insurance. Purchasing additional coverage can provide extra peace of mind—and protect you financially if the worst should happen.
Use the right supplies
One of the most common moving mistakes is using the wrong materials to pack your belongings. Placing them in boxes and hoping for the best isn’t the ideal solution. If you have a lot of breakables, consider stocking up on bubble wrap, styrofoam peanuts, and wrapping paper.
Item-By-Item
When it comes to your belongings, some are far more likely to get damaged during a move than others. Here are things to keep in mind when you’re packing some common fragile items.
Artwork
You’ll want to measure any framed paintings you own and procure boxes of the right size to hold them. Next, make a large “X” across the glass of each artwork with masking tape (this will prevent shards of glass from moving around in case of an accident). Lastly, be sure to add plenty of padding—bubble wrap is a great option!
Antiques
Do you have a lot of antique furniture and decor? These items can require special care due to their age and unique finishes. For glass lamps, wrap the shade with bubble wrap and fill it with balled-up packing paper. When it comes to wood furniture, the main thing to remember is that plastic can hold onto moisture. For this reason, it’s best to wrap your wooden antiques with moving blankets before adding any type of plastic padding.
Ceramics & Dishes
When you’re packaging up ceramic art and dishes, paper is crucial. Use layers for each individual item to keep things secure. Next, make sure they fit snugly in your boxes so that they don’t rattle around.
Electronics
If you’ve held onto the original packaging for your electronics, use it! Boxes and firm styrofoam of the perfect shape and size are sure to keep your flatscreen, speakers, and laptops secure. If you’ve discarded those packages, use bubble wrap before placing your electronics in boxes. You may also want to add some towels for additional padding.
Jewellery
When it’s not packed carefully, jewellery can get tangled up. Fortunately, thin sheets of foam can help keep these items separate. You can also prevent necklaces and dangling earrings from getting twisted by taping them down. While small boxes will certainly work, pill separators are another handy tool for sorting jewellery.
Moving from one home to another represents the beginning of a new chapter. To get started on the right foot, make sure your most prized possessions are transported safely. All it takes is a bit of forethought and the appropriate materials!
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