Tips for Moving Large & Fragile Items

Moving can be a challenging task, especially for large, bulky, and fragile items. Home appliances, electronics, artwork, and furniture require extra care and attention when moving to avoid damage. However, with proper planning and execution, moving large and fragile items can be less stressful. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with tips on moving these types of items.

1. Plan your Move in Advance

Planning your move in advance is essential for safe and successful relocation. Start by creating a moving checklist and identifying all the items that require special care, such as large and fragile items. This will help you determine the type and quantity of packing materials and moving equipment needed for the job.

Also, evaluate the path of movement from your current location to the new destination and identify potential obstacles, such as narrow doorways, staircases, or tight corners. This will inform your packing and moving strategy and save you from potential damage or injury during the move.

2. Use Appropriate Packaging Material

Using appropriate packaging material is crucial for preserving the integrity of fragile items during the move. Use sturdy moving boxes of the right size for the specific item, with extra padding materials such as bubble wrap or foam sheets. This will help to cushion the items and reduce the risk of breakage.

For electronics and home appliances, use the manufacturer’s original packaging if possible. If not, use a moving box that is appropriately sized for the item and use extra padding to cushion the fragile components to avoid any possible damage.

3. Hire Professional Movers

Hiring a professional moving service for your large and fragile items is a great way to ensure their safe arrival in your new home. Professional movers have the expertise and experience to handle fragile items and can strategically pack them for maximum protection during transport.

Before hiring a moving service, research and check their credentials, reviews, and reputation. Also, ensure that they have the necessary equipment, including custom-built crates, moving blankets, straps, and dollies.

4. Disassemble Large Items

Disassembling large items such as furniture, cabinets, and shelves can make moving them much easier and safer. It also saves you time and space in the moving truck. Before disassembling, ensure you have the right tools and keep all screws and bolts in a labeled box for easy reassembly.

Label each part and corresponding hardware to ensure you don’t mix them while assembling. Wrap each disassembled piece with extra padding, such as moving blankets or bubble wrap, to prevent scratches, dents, or any possible damage during transport.

5. Use a Dolly

Using a dolly can significantly reduce the risk of damage and injury during the move. It also makes moving large and heavy items easier, especially those that cannot be disassembled. Before using a dolly, ensure that you have the right size and type suitable for your item and ensure it’s in good condition.

Also, wrap your item with extra padding, such as moving blankets or bubble wrap, before moving it with a dolly. This adds an extra layer of protection from scratches and dents.

6. Enlist Help

Enlist help from family and friends when moving large and fragile items. It’s nearly impossible to move a large item alone, and it also increases the chances of damage and injury. A team of two or more can make the moving process more comfortable and safer.

Ensure that each person is assigned a specific task, such as carrying, guiding, or packing, and that everyone understands the strategy. Also, ensure that the team has the necessary equipment, such as gloves, moving blankets, and straps.

7. Label Each Box

Labeling each box is essential for organization and easy identification of fragile items. Use a permanent marker to label each box with a description of its content and indicate if it contains fragile or handle with care items.

Also, use colored markers or labels to differentiate the boxes and indicate where they should be placed in your new home. For example, use red for fragile items and green for non-fragile items.

8. Secure Artwork and Mirrors

Artwork and mirrors require extra attention during the move, as they are prone to breakage and damage. Ensure they are protected with extra padding, such as bubble wrap or packing foam, and placed in custom-built crates.

Before packing, apply tape in an X shape across the glass surface to prevent shattering in case of accidental breakage during the move. Also, ensure that the position of the artwork or mirror is marked on the crate to ensure correct placement during unpacking.

9. Secure Home Appliances

Home appliances require extra attention during the move, as they are big, bulky, and contain fragile components. The first step is to ensure that they are clean and dry to prevent the growth of mold and mildew during the move.

Ensure that the appliance is securely fastened and all moving parts, such as doors, are locked in place. For refrigerators and freezers, ensure that they are defrosted, and the shelves and drawers are removed and wrapped separately.

Conclusion

Moving large and fragile items can be a daunting task, but with proper planning and the right approach, you can ensure that your items arrive safely at your new destination. Use appropriate packing materials, hire professional movers, disassemble large items, use a dolly, enlist help, label each box, secure artwork and mirrors, and secure home appliances. With these tips, you will reduce the risk of damage and injury and ensure a successful and stress-free move.

Need help moving? Be sure to contact our moving professionals here at Furniture Master Moving Services Inc. to learn more about what we can do for you!