Do you have a porcelain, glass,
ceramic, or other similar breakable collection of figurines or dolls
to move? Before you pack these fragile items, take a look at what you
need to know about moving with collectibles.
What Packing Materials Do You Need?
Breakable or fragile collectibles
require plenty of protection. Start with sturdy cardboard boxes or
plastic bins (with lids) and pack your porcelain pieces, ceramic
figurines, or delicate dolls with:
- Bubble wrap. This type of
packing wrap offers an air-protected cushion. Not only can you wrap
the breakables in the plastic bubbles, you can also use this packing
material to fill the sides and tops of boxes or line them
completely.
- Towels. If you don't want
to spend on bubble wrap, use wash cloths or small hand towels as
protective cushions.
- Newsprint. Regular
newspaper provides protection for some types of glass or porcelain
breakables. But the ink can streak or stain these items. Instead,
choose plain archival quality or acid-free newsprint.
- Packing tape. Secure bubble
wrap, boxes, and more with tape. This packing material reduces the
risks of damage caused by open or broken boxes.
Along with these items, you may also
need specialized materials - depending on what you plan to pack. If
possible, reuse the collectible's original packaging. The original
packaging provides the fit and protection the item needs to stay safe
throughout the move.
How Should You Pack Collectibles?
The answer to this question depends on
what you need to move. To pack smaller-sized breakable collectibles
such as fragile figurines or porcelain dolls:
- Wrap the item. Create a
snug protective barrier around the item. Wrap the piece in bubble
wrap or a soft, lint-free towel. Secure the wrap completely with
packing tape. Never place the tape on the item itself. Tape the wrap
or towel.
- Find the right box. While
you could place several items into one box to save space, this could
damage fragile breakables. Choose a box that is slightly longer,
taller, and wider than the item's dimensions. This creates a snug
fit and reduces the breakage risk.
- Line the box or bin. Use
bubble wrap or towels to line or cushion the box/bin. You can also
crumple/ball newsprint to line the container.
- Secure the item in the box.
Gently place the collectible in the box. Add another layer of bubble
wrap, towels, or crumpled newsprint for protection. Take the box
shut or close the lid completely (for plastic bins).
After you pack each item, label the box
or bin with the collectible's name and location. Include an easily
identifying description and the room it belongs in. Mark the box or
bin with directional arrows for safe handling and the word fragile or
breakable.
How Can You Safely Move
Collectibles?
Even though you've carefully packed
your collectibles, you need to safely transport these items from your
old house to the new one. To reduce risks during the transportation
process:
- Hire a professional. A
qualified moving contractor has the knowledge and experience
necessary to safely move your fragile collectibles across town or
across the country.
- Discuss your moving needs with
the professional. Make sure the contractor knows which boxes
hold collectibles. Along with the breakable nature of the items,
discuss other needs. These may include temperature, light, or
humidity requirements.
- Bring some items with you.
Smaller collectibles can travel with you. Pack extremely breakable
or valuable items in your car.
Who should you hire to move your
collectibles? If this is your first move, get estimates from a few
different contractors. Compare the services, prices, and experience
levels before choosing one mover for the job.
Are you ready to schedule your move?
Contact Los Flores Movers
for more information.
