Packing can be one of the most time-consuming aspects of moving home. Valuables, in particular, require special attention to ensure they are well-protected. Even with careful handling, damage can occur if items are not packed correctly. Follow our guide to packing valuables and minimise the risk of damage during your move.
Be Prepared
Packing valuables takes time and attention, even more so than other belongings. Start packing as soon as you know you are moving, and avoid leaving it until the night before. This ensures you have ample time to handle each item with care.
Have the Right Materials
Using the right tools and materials can make the difference between items arriving intact or damaged. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Boxes: New boxes are essential for valuables, and specialist boxes (e.g., for flat-screen TVs) can save time.
- Bubble wrap: For cushioning delicate items.
- Foam or void fill: To fill empty spaces and provide extra protection.
- Shrink wrap: For securing larger items.
- Packing paper or peanuts: Avoid printed paper to prevent stains on hands, clothes, and valuables.
- Scissors: Essential for cutting packing materials.
- Tape: Include regular tape, blue painter’s tape, and fragile tape.
How to Pack Specific Items
Plates, Ceramics, and China
- Wrap plates individually in bubble wrap and pack them vertically in small to medium boxes.
- Avoid overpacking the box to prevent pressure on the contents.
- Wrap other ceramics in bubble wrap and fill spaces with packing paper or peanuts.
Glass
- Wrap glasses individually with packing paper and crumple paper inside to minimise empty space.
- Line boxes with ample packing paper and place heavier items at the bottom, with lighter ones on top.
Silverware
- Clean, dry, and polish silverware before packing to prevent tarnishing during long storage periods.
- Wrap items in cloth or plastic bags to avoid scratches.
Electronics
- Label cords and cables before disconnecting to make reassembly easier.
- Wrap cords neatly and secure them with ties.
- Wrap the main electronic device in bubble wrap, place it in a box, and fill empty spaces with packing material.
Jewellery
- Earrings: Post earrings through a piece of thick card, wrap in cloth or place in a Ziploc bag.
- Necklaces: Thread one end of the necklace through a straw to prevent tangling, then wrap and secure.
- Use a roll-up travel bag for jewellery with compartments to keep items separate and protected.
- Keep valuable jewellery with you during the move.
Art
- Unframed Art: Handle paper carefully with gloves, wrap in acid-free tissue paper, and secure to cardboard. Use a mirror box for additional protection.
- Framed Art: Tape a cross shape on the glass with blue painter’s tape to reduce breakage risk. Wrap in acid-free tissue paper and bubble wrap, focusing on corners, and pack in a snug box with packing material.
- Sculptures: Wrap each part (top, bottom, and middle) separately with bubble wrap, secure with tape, and
