Removalist Tips for Packing Fragile and Valuable Items
When it comes to relocating, packing fragile and valuable items can be one of the most stressful parts of the process. Whether you’re moving across the street or interstate, ensuring your treasured possessions make it safely to your new home requires careful preparation. From family heirlooms and antiques to electronics and fine china, the right packing techniques can make all the difference. With insights from industry professionals, this guide outlines essential tips for safely packing your most delicate belongings.
Understand What Needs Special Attention
Not all items are created equal when it comes to packing. Fragile and valuable goods like glassware, artwork, jewellery, ceramics and electronics need additional cushioning and care to avoid damage.
Start by identifying which belongings require extra attention. Creating a list of these items helps you stay organised and plan appropriately.
It’s also worth evaluating which items should be transported by you personally rather than the removalist. For example, small valuables such as passports, cash and sentimental jewellery are often safer when kept with you during the move.
Use the Right Packing Materials
The key to protecting fragile goods is using high-quality packing materials. Invest in strong cardboard boxes in various sizes, bubble wrap, packing paper, foam peanuts and packing tape. Avoid newspapers for wrapping as the ink can transfer onto items, especially delicate or light-coloured ones.
For breakables like crockery or glassware, wrap each piece individually with bubble wrap or packing paper. Place heavier items at the bottom of the box and lighter items on top. Fill any empty space with soft padding to prevent shifting during transit. Always label these boxes as ‘FRAGILE’ to alert your moving expert and others handling the load.
Wrap & Pack with Technique
Each item type requires a specific approach when it comes to wrapping. Plates should be wrapped individually and stacked vertically in a sturdy box. Glasses and stemware should be wrapped with bubble wrap and placed upright, never lying flat. Fill hollow items with tissue or packing paper to absorb shock.
Electronics like televisions, gaming consoles and computers should ideally be packed in their original boxes. If that’s not possible, choose snug-fitting boxes and use anti-static wrap to protect the screens and internal components. Label cables and accessories clearly so you can reassemble them easily after the move.
Artworks and mirrors should be covered with bubble wrap and placed in custom-fit picture boxes. Use cardboard corner protectors and avoid stacking anything on top of these items.
Label Everything Clearly
Clear labelling not only helps during unpacking but also alerts the mover to handle specific boxes with extra care. In addition to marking boxes ‘FRAGILE’, indicate which side should face up and mention the room the box belongs to. Use a waterproof marker and label more than one side of the box for visibility, no matter how it’s loaded.
If you’re using a professional removalist service, consider including a brief inventory list inside each box, especially for valuable contents. This aids in accountability and makes it easier to identify any items that may go missing or get misplaced.
Don’t Overpack
It might be tempting to fit as much as possible into a single box, but overpacking is a common cause of breakages. A box that’s too heavy can be difficult to carry and more likely to be dropped. Keep box weights manageable—ideally under 20 kilograms—and use multiple boxes if necessary.
When in doubt, use smaller boxes for fragile items. This reduces the risk of overloading and makes the boxes easier to handle. Ensure each box is well-sealed and reinforced with packing tape on all seams to maintain its integrity throughout the move.
Insurance & Documentation
Even with the best packing techniques, accidents can happen. Consider insuring your valuables during the move. Check whether your existing home and contents insurance provides coverage for items in transit or whether your moving company offers specialised insurance options.
It’s also a good idea to take photos of your high-value items before the move. This visual documentation can be useful if you need to make an insurance claim or check for any post-move damage.
Work with a Professional Moving Service
Hiring a reputable mover can give you peace of mind when moving fragile and valuable possessions. Experienced movers know how to handle delicate items and often provide packing services that include specialised materials and techniques. Be transparent about what needs extra care and ask whether they have experience transporting similar goods.
Moving fragile and valuable items doesn’t have to be a nerve-racking experience. With careful planning, the right materials and a trusted removalist, you can protect your prized possessions and ensure they arrive safely in your new home. Taking the time to pack properly and label clearly will save you from stress and costly breakages.
