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How To Pack Breakables When Relocating

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Relocating? Safeguard Your Precious Breakables with Expert Packing Techniques!

Are you gearing up for a big move? The excitement of starting fresh in a new home shouldn’t be overshadowed by the stress of packing delicate items. That’s why I’m thrilled to share my detailed guide on How to Pack Breakables When Relocating. With a blend of time-tested techniques and personal insights, you’ll be equipped to ensure your cherished possessions make the journey to your new home in perfect condition.Man in green shirt carrying boxes with packed breakables, showing safe packing techniques

Discover Effective Moving Hacks for Choosing the Perfect Packaging Material!

Moving is a thrilling adventure, and I’m here to help you make the packing process as smooth as possible. Here’s a peek into some innovative moving hacks to select the ideal packaging materials for your breakables:

Dish Barrels: The Unsung Heroes

When packing fragile items like dishes and glassware, dish barrels are indispensable. Inspired by the sturdy wooden barrels once used for transporting goods to China, these boxes have been adapted by professional movers for superior protection. With their reinforced cardboard, dish barrels absorb shocks and minimize the risk of breakage. Although they might be pricier than standard boxes, their added protection is well worth the investment.

Secure Box Setup: The Art of Taping

The strength of your boxes is crucial. Use wide packing tape and a tape gun for an efficient setup. Apply tape across the bottom of the box, covering about one-third of its width and extending up the sides. Reinforce the ends with extra tape to ensure the box stays square and intact.

Packing Material Options: Choosing Wisely

You might consider using old newspapers for cushioning, but they can leave ink stains. Instead, invest in white packing paper from a reputable moving company. This paper is clean and provides a protective layer, reducing the risk of scratches during the move.

Begin with a Soft Bed of Paper in Your Packing Cartons

Starting your packing process with a soft bed of paper is essential. Here’s why this step matters:

  1. Cushioning and Protection: A layer of crumpled paper at the bottom of your cartons provides crucial shock absorption, protecting your items from bumps and vibrations during transport.
  2. Even Weight Distribution: A soft paper base helps distribute weight evenly, preventing the box from tipping or collapsing and making stacking and organizing easier.
  3. Prevents Slippage and Shifting: This layer keeps items in place, minimizing damage from shifting during the move.
  4. Absorbs Moisture and Odors: Paper absorbs moisture and odors, keeping your belongings fresh and protected.
  5. Easy Unpacking: A soft paper bed makes unpacking cleaner and easier.

Pro Tip: Use about a seven-inch bed of paper at the bottom of each carton. Opt for high-quality, clean packing paper to avoid stains.

 

Packing Glassware and Other Delicate Breakables

Here’s how to ensure your glassware and other fragile items arrive safely:

  1. Gather the Right Materials: Sturdy boxes, packing paper, bubble wrap, packing tape, and markers are essential.
  2. Reinforce the Box: Use dish-pack boxes or sturdy alternatives. Reinforce the bottom with packing tape for extra support.
  3. Create a Soft Bed: Start with crumpled packing paper or bubble wrap at the bottom of the box.
  4. Wrap Each Piece Individually: Wrap each item with packing paper or bubble wrap, securing it with tape. For added protection, use an additional layer of bubble wrap.
  5. Fill Empty Spaces: Use crumpled paper or bubble wrap to fill gaps and prevent shifting.
  6. Separate with Dividers: Consider using dividers or cell kits to provide extra protection.
  7. Label and Handle with Care: Mark boxes as “Fragile” and indicate the correct orientation.
  8. Pack Stemware Upside Down: This protects delicate stems and adds stability.
  9. Position Dishware Vertically: Stack plates like records to distribute weight evenly.
  10. Place Fragile Boxes on Top: Ensure boxes containing breakables are on top of heavier items to avoid crushing.

Roll & Tuck: The Art of Wrapping Breakables

The Roll & Tuck method is perfect for wrapping glassware and delicate items:

  1. Prepare Materials: Gather packing paper or bubble wrap, scissors, and tape.
  2. Start at a Corner: Place the item at one corner of the paper or wrap.
  3. Roll Diagonally: Roll the item diagonally, tucking in the sides as you go. Secure with tape.
  4. Repeat and Double Wrap: Wrap each item individually. Double wrap for extra protection if needed.
  5. Label Each Package: Mark packages as “Fragile” for easy identification.

Wrap and Pack Breakable Glasses

Here are additional tips for packing glasses:

  1. Clean and Dry: Ensure glasses are clean and dry before packing.
  2. Create a Work Area: Use a soft, cushioned surface for wrapping.
  3. Wrap Individually: Use packing paper or bubble wrap, securing with tape. Protect delicate stems separately.
  4. Separate and Stack: Use packing material between glasses and stack snugly.
  5. Fill Empty Spaces: Prevent shifting by filling gaps with crumpled paper or bubble wrap.
  6. Label and Handle with Care: Clearly mark boxes and handle gently.

Wrap and Pack Breakable Plates

To pack plates safely:

  1. Prepare the Box: Reinforce the bottom with packing tape.
  2. Create a Cushioned Base: Use crumpled paper or bubble wrap.
  3. Wrap Plates Individually: Wrap each plate securely and stack vertically.
  4. Use Plate Dividers: For extra protection, use plate dividers or padded inserts.
  5. Fill Empty Spaces: Minimize movement by filling gaps with packing material.
  6. Label and Handle with Care: Clearly mark the box and handle carefully.
  7. Place Lighter Items on Top: Prevent crushing by placing heavier items on top.

Final Thoughts

Packing breakables doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By following these detailed steps and employing the right techniques, you can ensure your delicate items are protected and arrive safely at your new home. Start early, use quality packing materials, and involve the whole family in the process for a smoother move.

For more tips and the best packing supplies, check out my Amazon affiliate link. Happy moving!

Wrap with Care. Pack with Confidence.

By Author Julee

Home » How To Pack Breakables When Relocating

About Julee: Julee Morrison is an experienced author with 35 years of expertise in parenting and recipes. She is the author of four cookbooks: The Instant Pot College Cookbook, The How-To Cookbook for Teens, The Complete Cookbook for Teens, and The Complete College Cookbook. Julee is passionate about baking, crystals, reading, and family. Her writing has appeared in The LA Times (Bon Jovi Obsession Goes Global), Disney's Family Fun Magazine (August 2010, July 2009, September 2008), and My Family Gave Up Television (page 92, Disney Family Fun August 2010). Her great ideas have been featured in Disney's Family Fun (Page 80, September 2008) and the Write for Charity book From the Heart (May 2010). Julee's work has also been published in Weight Watchers Magazine, All You Magazine (Jan. 2011, February 2011, June 2013), Scholastic Parent and Child Magazine (Oct. 2011), Red River Family Magazine (Jan. 2011), BonAppetit.com, and more. Notably, her article "My Toddler Stood on Elvis' Grave and Scaled Over Boulders to Get to a Dinosaur" made AP News, and "The Sly Way I Cured My Child's Lying Habit" was featured on PopSugar. When she's not writing, Julee enjoys spending time with her family and exploring new baking recipes.
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