When it comes to moving, no one wants their personal items to be damaged or destroyed, but antiques and collectibles require particular packing and handling. These are frequently one-of-a-kind, financially valuable goods that are difficult to replace, as well as having substantial sentimental or historical worth. NYC moving professionals have created a guide on how to transport breakables and antiques safely. We’re sure you’ll find it useful. It will help you limit the damage to your valuable possessions during the big house move.
Take photos
We recommend taking photos of your favorite pieces before transferring fragile objects, such as your beloved antique item. Place the objects in bright light and snap several photographs from various angles. This will assist you not only with the inventory but also in the case that you need to file an insurance claim.
Store the items that can’t be moved right away
Antiques should be stored in a temperature and humidity-controlled environment, such as a climate-controlled storage container, for proper storage. You should also ensure that the area is free of pests such as moths, cockroaches, and mice. Another factor to consider is the location’s security. Consider finding a dependable short term storage Manhattan.
Find yourself some good quality boxes and reinforce them
When it comes to finding boxes, you have a few alternatives. You can purchase them new, acquire them in a thrift store, or borrow them from a friend or relative who has recently relocated. If the boxes are going to hold large or fragile objects, add extra packing tape to the bottoms of the boxes. With just two extra pieces of packing tape, you can achieve this fast and easily. Large flat items, such as mirrors and paintings, should be packed in special boxes. These can be acquired from your experienced removal services or ordered online. Request some corner protectors from expert packing services NYC to provide an extra layer of protection for larger objects.
Make an inventory of your items
Sort through your stuff and write a note of any valuables, antiques, or collectibles you want to bring with you. Our comprehensive list will make keeping track of your belongings much easier during the relocation process.
While at this, arrange your belongings into which you wish to take with you and which may be loaded into the moving truck. Consider bringing these items with you:
- Jewelry
- Money
- Essential Documents
The safest way for packing antiques and breakables
Ask yourself – What type of packing material should I use? What boxes are the best transport breakables and antiques? What else should I put inside the box with each antique or precious object? These are all things to consider when transferring antiques and collectibles (and even computer equipment). Here are some tips on how to pack typical valuables for relocation:
Paper valuables
Wrap the objects in waterproof packings, such as a sealed plastic bag. To avoid folding and creasing, sandwich the waterproof package between two pieces of cardboard. Do not bend or fold the prepared object; instead, place it in an envelope that is taped shut and marked as fragile. Put this package in a durable container, such as a hard plastic box or bin.
Keeping metal items safe and protected
Metal goods, such as tin toys, silverware, and brass lamps, can be easily scratched or damaged during removal. Wrapping these goods in bubble wrap or placing them in a box filled with packing peanuts is a simple way to safeguard them. Wrapping them with old clothing or linen is also a nice option.
Hollow objects
It is highly recommended that you fill in the hollow areas of your antiques (such as vases, glassware, and ceramics objects). You should stuff the insides of the boxes with crumpled newspapers or bubble wrap and surround them with foam peanuts or bubble wrap.
Glassware, pottery, and porcelain
Breakables, such as glass, should be wrapped in two layers of protective material, such as bubble wrap. Use bubble wrap, packing peanuts, or crumpled newspaper to line a box somewhat larger than the item and nestle the wrapped object inside. Place the smaller box inside a larger box that has been lined with further protective wrapping. Make sure the sides of the outer box and the inside box are separated by a thick cushion.
Tips from the Smithsonian experts on how to transport breakables and antiques safely
In order to transport breakables and antiques safely, you should always use three protective layers. That should include a protective wrap, protection from vibrations, and a protective outer shell. Also, make sure to use a shipping crate made of wood, bubble wrap or soft cloth, and a layer of packing peanuts or foam. When packing and wrapping valuables, take care to move gently and support the item well. Do not drag or push fragile items.
Label every box containing antiques and breakables
‘FRAGILE’ should be written in different places on every box that includes fragile or breakable items. It’s best to use a permanent marker to put the word on the box. Purchase high-quality tags to avoid them peeling off during the move. Make the letters as big as possible so that even the most tired movers can read them.
Hire expert movers
Of course, hiring professionals to move priceless paintings, mirrors, antiques, and other costly artifacts is the best option. Professional movers have the knowledge and experience necessary to transport breakables and antiques securely. That means they can identify the safest way to move and transport your belongings, which are either too valuable or irreplaceable to risk damage. Many moving businesses specialize in packaging and transporting these types of items.
In conclusion
After your antiques have been properly packed, your next responsibility will be to ensure that your movers’ transport breakables and antiques safely. Make sure your local movers Manhattan are aware of which things are antiques and which boxes contain them. You might even want to relocate some of the boxes with antiques yourself to avoid them being cramped or having boxes placed on top of them.
