Handle With Care: What to Treat as “Fragile” When Moving Long Distance

Moving long distances can be exhausting. You need to plan carefully to make sure that all of your belongings arrive intact at their final destination. Certain items, however, need extra care due to being fragile, valuable or highly sentimental in nature. Knowing which categories deserve special attention during your move and how best to protect them could save you a lot of tears and replacement expenses in the form of accidental missteps during transit. 

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Glass, Ceramics and Porcelain 

It should come as no surprise that items made of glass, ceramics, or porcelain should top the list of fragile materials. This includes mirrors, windows, picture frames, dishes and decorative pieces made of these fragile materials. These stuff are susceptible to cracking, shattering and chipping even with just the minimal impacts, so proper packing for these fragile objects must take place. Use specialized packing paper or bubble wrap (or both) and label them clearly “FRAGILE.” And make sure that heavy items are not stacked atop of fragile items during transit.

Electronics and Gadgets

Electronic devices, including televisions, gaming consoles, computers and small appliances can be expensive investments that are also highly vulnerable to bumps and temperature changes. Many of these things have intricate internal components which could become dislodged or malfunction without proper handling. Whenever possible, use the original packaging from manufacturers as well as protective materials such as anti-static foam casings or sturdy boxes as these will provide the best possible protection. Don't forget to remove the  batteries as accidents happen.

Art and Antiques

From family heirlooms, paintings, or delicate sculptures, art and antiques do need a lot of extra care when being transported. That is because these items carry emotional and financial value, so their preservation is very important. When packing paintings and sculptures for transportation, you should use custom crates or specialist art packing services. To protect these valuables further from scratches or abrasions, wrap them in acid-free muslin before using additional layers of cushioning. When you hire a moving company, make sure they take extra precautions with regards to these unique items.

Musical Instruments

Musical instruments are notoriously fragile because of being physically delicate and finely tuned. An accidental knock could do a lot of damage, from loosening the strings and cracking wood the surfaces, to warping brass components or breaking them entirely. Protective cases that are specifically tailored for each instrument with additional padding like foam or soft cloth should help minimize such incidents. Also, be mindful of temperature changes as some instruments (like guitars and pianos) could warp easily under extreme temperatures.

Plants

While not that it's glaring obvious, live plants fall under the “fragile” category when moving them. Plants are very sensitive to changes in light, temperature and handling. To prepare them for their move across state lines you should remove them from heavy ceramic pots and place them in lightweight plastic containers with slightly less weight. Water them lightly for leakage prevention while placing them in open boxes to allow airflow. 

Fragile Packaging 

Preparing your fragile items for long-distance relocation doesn't stop with simply identifying them, it also needs the right packing tools. Packing materials for fragile items include bubble wrap, packing paper, foam inserts, heavy-duty moving boxes and packing tape. Do not forget about the labels with “FRAGILE” and “THIS SIDE UP” stickers to make sure that they are  being handled with extra caution.

Communicate With Your Movers

When you are hiring professional movers, always inform them which items require special care during transport. Experienced moving companies normally have additional services like specialty packing or climate-controlled trucks to handle delicate items safely and avoid mishaps during transit. Carefully list and discuss with them which of your items are fragile to avoid any accidents during your move.

The Importance of Moving Insurance

No matter how well prepared you are, accidents can still come up during long distance moves. That is why comprehensive moving insurance gives you added protection while your belongings travel from their previous residence to their new destination. For help with finding a policy that meets your needs contact your moving company or third-party insurer.

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Conclusion 

When moving long distances, knowing which items need special care can reduce unnecessary stress and losses. From glassware and electronics to sentimental antiques and plants, every fragile item needs careful handling for the best possible trip during your move. Make an investment in quality packing materials, coordinate with your movers, and purchase moving insurance to make sure you have an easier journey. Moving is never easy, but the results can make the journey worth your while if all your fragile items arrive undamaged.

This is a contributed post.

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