How To Safely Package Up 10 Different Items When You're Moving Home

How To Safely Package Up 10 Different Items When You’re Moving Home.

Moving house can be a stressful experience, from having an offer accepted to planning how you’re going to decorate.

However, one key stress revolves around ensuring that you safely get all of your belongings from one property to another.

Luckily, this is possible with the right protective packaging and packing techniques.

Whether you’re handling delicate glassware or bulky furniture, here’s how to safely package up 10 different items when moving home:

Table of Contents

1. Glassware

Glassware is one of the hardest and most stress-inducing items when it comes to transporting. I recommend the following:

Use double-walled boxes: These provide extra strength and protection.
Wrap each item individually: Use bubble wrap or high quality packing paper to cushion each piece.
Fill in any gaps: Pack any empty space in the boxes with crumpled paper, bubble wrap or air pillows to prevent any movement.
Label them clearly: Mark boxes as ‘Fragile’ and indicate which way is up. This prevents anyone in the moving process from potentially causing damage.

2. Plates, dishes and ceramics

Plates, dishes and any ceramic ornaments are other easily-breakable items that can be difficult to transport safely.

You should follow the same advice given above when packaging them up, as well as the following:

Stack plates vertically: Plates are less likely to break when placed on their sides.
Use plate/dish dividers: Cardboard dividers can prevent collisions between plates when in transit.
Wrap securely: Use plenty of packing paper and add a layer of bubble wrap for extra protection.

3. Electronics

Electronics are generally delicate, yet large and heavy.

This makes them particularly vulnerable during the moving process, and particularly fragile.

Every electronic is different, but in general:

Use original boxes: If available, the original packaging is ideal as it’s designed to hold the electronic safely.
Protect screens: Cover screens with a soft cloth before wrapping the electronic in bubble wrap.
Remove all loose components: Detach cables, batteries, and any accessories before packaging. Bag and label them for easy reassembly.

4. Clothing

Clothing doesn’t pose the risk of breaking as such, but there’s always the risk that it can become creased, damp or damaged.

To prevent this:

Use wardrobe boxes: These allow clothes to remain on hangers, reducing creases.
Store clothing boxes in a cool, dry place: This prevents them from potentially becoming damp and musty.
Only store clothes in cardboard boxes for a short period of time: To prevent damp and mould.
Vacuum seal bags of clothing: Great for bulky items like coats and bedding.
Separate delicate items: Pack them in smaller boxes with tissue paper for added protection.

5. Furniture

Furniture such as tables and chairs is usually quite strong and sturdy, however this doesn’t mean that it can’t be damaged in transit.

Transporting furniture also poses the risk of damaging other items, which is why it’s important to:

Disassemble it when possible: Remove legs and secure screws in labelled bags.
Wrap with blankets: Use furniture blankets or thick quilts for cushioning.
Protect corners: Corner protectors prevent damage to delicate wood or glass edges.

6. Books and documents

Books can quickly become heavy when packed together, so using the right materials and techniques is essential:

Use small boxes: Books are dense, so pack them in smaller boxes to prevent excessive weight and avoid box breakage.
Lay flat or stand upright: Store books either flat or upright to prevent bending and warping. Avoid placing them on their spines.
Protect important documents: Use waterproof plastic wallets or folders to shield important papers from potential water damage during the move.
Fill gaps: Place packing paper or bubble wrap around books to stop them shifting.

7. Kitchen appliances

Kitchen appliances can be awkward to move due to their size and weight, but with careful preparation and the proper packaging, you can prevent damage:

Clean and dry thoroughly: Make sure appliances are completely clean and dry to prevent mould and unpleasant odours.
Secure cables: Wrap electric cables neatly and tape them to the appliance to prevent tripping hazards and tangling.
Use padding: Wrap appliances in bubble wrap or foam sheets for extra protection.
Pack detachable accessories separately: Store detachable parts like trays, shelves, or attachments in labelled bags.

8. Plants

Transporting plants can be tricky, as they are delicate and require care during transit.

You need to take extra care with plants that have spikes or needles, such as cacti. For all plants:

Use sturdy boxes: Select tall, rigid boxes that can accommodate plant height without crushing leaves.
Protect the foliage: Poke small air holes into the box to ensure ventilation and prevent wilting.
Wrap pots securely: Place plastic bags around plant pots to contain soil in case of spillage.
Minimise watering: Water plants sparingly a day before the move to prevent leaks.

9. Wall protection

PVC cladding and wall protection panels are prone to scratches, dents, and cracks if not handled correctly.

As well as this, they have potential to be easily damaged by heat and moisture if exposed. To transport safely:

Lay pieces flat: Store large cladding sheets horizontally to prevent bending and warping.

Use foam packing sheets: Place foam sheets between each panel to act as a buffer against friction and damage.
Wrap securely: Cover panels in bubble wrap for extra cushioning.
Label clearly: Mark boxes with ‘Fragile’ and ‘Do Not Bend’ to ensure careful handling.

10. Artwork and mirrors

Similar to transporting wall protection, mirrors and framed artwork require special care to avoid cracks, chips, or shattered glass.

You should:

Invest in custom boxes: Special mirror or frame boxes offer enhanced protection during transit.
Use corner protectors: Foam or cardboard corner protectors prevent damage to frame edges.
Wrap in bubble wrap: Apply multiple layers of bubble wrap to provide a cushioned barrier.
Label as fragile: Ensure clear labelling to instruct movers to handle with care.

Additional tips for packing when moving house:

Pack an essentials box: Include toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, and other items you’ll need on arrival. This means you won’t have to worry about unpacking every box straight away.
Label everything clearly and thoroughly: Be clear and detailed with your labelling to make unpacking easier.
Use quality packaging materials: Invest in strong boxes, packing tape, and protective materials to keep your belongings secure.

Hope you’ve found our article, How To Safely Package Up 10 Different Items When You’re Moving Home useful.

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