When it comes to moving, one of the biggest concerns is protecting delicate or valuable items like antiques, artwork, and family heirlooms. Moving these treasures across the country requires special care and planning. Countrywide Moving & Storage (CWMAS), based in East Norriton, PA, has years of experience handling fragile items and offers some essential tips to keep your valuables safe during a move.
1. Inventory Your Fragile Items
Start by listing every delicate item you’re planning to move. This can include glassware, mirrors, antiques, artwork, and family heirlooms. Having a detailed inventory will help you track items and note any pre-existing conditions or unique care needs.
2. Use High-Quality Packing Materials
Fragile items require more than just cardboard boxes. Invest in quality packing materials like bubble wrap, packing paper, and custom crates for items that need extra protection. CWMAS provides premium packing materials and specialized boxes designed to safeguard delicate items during transport.
3. Wrap Each Item Individually
Each item should be individually wrapped, especially items with delicate edges or surfaces. Layering bubble wrap or foam around the entire object can absorb shock during transit. For highly valuable items, consider double-boxing to add an extra layer of protection.
4. Label Fragile Boxes Clearly
Make sure each box containing fragile items is clearly labeled with “Fragile” on all sides. This helps movers know to handle these boxes with extra care. CWMAS movers are trained to handle fragile items and will pay close attention to boxes marked as delicate.
5. Consider Custom Crating for High-Value Pieces
Custom crates offer the best protection for unusually shaped or valuable items, like sculptures or large glass items. CWMAS can help design and build custom crates to protect your treasures throughout the journey.
6. Pack Art and Mirrors with Care
When packing artwork or mirrors, use specialized boxes designed for flat items. Add a layer of cardboard between pieces, and secure the frame edges with extra padding. CWMAS can provide custom packaging for artwork, mirrors, and other flat items that require a gentle touch.
7. Disassemble When Possible
For antique furniture or fragile decor items, disassemble pieces when possible. Remove any removable parts and store them in labeled bags within the same box as the main item to prevent loss. CWMAS offers disassembly and reassembly services to make this process easy.
8. Control the Climate in Storage
If your move requires temporary storage, make sure it’s climate-controlled. Temperature and humidity can impact antiques and fragile items. CWMAS offers secure, climate-controlled storage solutions, ideal for maintaining the condition of your valuable items until you’re ready for them.
9. Purchase Additional Insurance
Standard moving insurance may not cover the full value of high-end antiques and artwork. Consider purchasing additional insurance to provide extra protection for valuable items. CWMAS can guide you through insurance options tailored to your needs.
10. Work with a Moving Company Experienced with Fragile Items
Finally, choose a moving company with a proven track record of handling fragile and valuable items. CWMAS has extensive experience in moving delicate and high-value items across the country, ensuring each piece is treated with the care it deserves.
Moving delicate items across the country doesn’t have to be nerve-wracking. With the right packing strategies and a reliable moving company like Countrywide Moving & Storage, you can be confident that your fragile items will arrive safely at their new home. Contact CWMAS for more tips and to arrange a consultation on your upcoming move – your cherished belongings are in good hands!