Moving can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to handling valuable items that require extra care and attention. Whether it’s cherished heirlooms, expensive electronics, or fragile collectibles, ensuring their safe transit is a top priority. 

Expert packing techniques can make all the difference between your treasures arriving intact or in pieces. 

In this guide, we’ll share professional tips and tricks to help you pack your valuable items securely, giving you peace of mind during your move.

Preparing for the Move

Organizing Your Packing Supplies

Before you start packing valuable items for a move, it’s essential to gather all the necessary packing supplies. Having the right materials will make the packing process smoother and more efficient. 

Additionally, be aware of things moving companies won’t move, such as hazardous materials, as this can impact how you pack and what you’ll need to transport yourself. 

Here are the supplies you’ll need and tips on how to use them effectively:

  1. Sturdy Boxes: Choose high-quality, sturdy boxes in various sizes. For example, you might use smaller boxes for heavier items like books or delicate items like glassware. Larger boxes can be used for lighter, bulkier items such as pillows or linens.
  2. Bubble Wrap: This is crucial for protecting fragile items. When packing, wrap each piece of glassware or china individually with bubble wrap to provide a cushioning layer that absorbs shocks and prevents breakage.
  3. Packing Paper: Use unprinted packing paper to wrap items and fill empty spaces in boxes. For instance, wrap plates individually and place them vertically in a box, filling any gaps with crumpled packing paper to prevent movement during transit.
  4. Packing Peanuts: These are great for filling in spaces around larger items to keep them from shifting. When packing a box with a delicate vase, place the vase in the center and surround it with packing peanuts to create a protective barrier.
  5. Foam Sheets: Foam sheets are perfect for protecting larger items such as mirrors or framed artwork. Place a foam sheet between each piece of artwork, and use additional sheets to cover the entire surface before placing it in a box.
  6. Stretch Wrap: This plastic wrap is ideal for securing items together and protecting them from scratches. For example, use stretch wrap to bundle together a set of candlesticks or wrap around furniture to keep drawers and doors closed.
  7. Packing Tape: High-quality packing tape is essential for sealing boxes securely. Reinforce the bottom of each box with extra tape to ensure it can handle the weight of your items.
  8. Permanent Markers: Use permanent markers to label each box clearly. 

By organizing these supplies and using them correctly, you can ensure your valuable items are well-protected during the move. 

Packing Fragile Items

How to Pack Glassware and China?

When it comes to fragile items, it’s essential to choose the right moving company to ensure your belongings are handled with care.

Glassware and china are particularly susceptible to damage during a move. 

Follow these steps to ensure they are packed securely:

  1. Wrap Each Piece Individually: Use bubble wrap or packing paper to wrap each item separately. For instance, wrap each glass in bubble wrap, securing it with tape. This step is crucial for protecting valuables during a move, as it prevents items from clinking together and breaking.
  2. Layer the Bottom of the Box: Before placing any items in the box, create a cushioning layer at the bottom using crumpled packing paper or packing peanuts. This foundation will absorb any shocks during transit.
  3. Place Items Vertically: Position glassware and china vertically in the box. This reduces the surface area exposed to potential impacts, thereby minimizing the risk of breakage. For example, stack plates vertically rather than laying them flat.
  4. Fill in Gaps: Use packing peanuts or crumpled paper to fill any gaps in the box. This step is essential for preventing movement during transit. If there’s empty space in the box, items can shift and collide, increasing the risk of damage.
  5. Label the Box: Clearly mark the box as “Fragile” and indicate which side should face up. This alerts movers to handle the box with extra care, ensuring your valuable items are treated properly.

These steps are vital for packing valuable items for a move, ensuring that your fragile items are protected and arrive intact.

Packing Electronics

Preparing Electronics for Packing

Properly preparing your electronics is crucial to avoid damage. 

Here are some steps to ensure your valuable electronics are safe during a move:

  1. Back Up Data: Before packing, ensure all important data is backed up. This step is vital in case of any unforeseen damage during the move. Use external hard drives or cloud services to store your data securely.
  2. Remove Batteries and Accessories: Take out any batteries, cartridges, or accessories from your electronics. This prevents potential leakage or damage during transit. For example, remove the batteries from your remote controls and the cartridges from your printers.
  3. Use Original Packaging: If possible, use the original packaging for your electronics. These boxes are designed to provide the best protection for your devices. If you don’t have the original packaging, follow the guidelines below.

Packing Electronics Safely

If you don’t have the original packaging, you can still pack your electronics securely using these tips:

  1. Wrap Each Item: Use bubble wrap or foam sheets to wrap each electronic item securely. For instance, wrap your laptop in bubble wrap, ensuring all sides are covered, and secure it with tape.
  2. Choose the Right Box: Use sturdy boxes that can support the weight of the electronics. For smaller items, you can use smaller boxes, while larger boxes are suitable for bigger devices. Make sure the boxes are in good condition and free from any damage.
  3. Add Padding: Place a layer of packing paper or peanuts at the bottom of the box. This will act as a cushion for your electronics. Place the wrapped electronics inside and fill any remaining space with more padding to prevent movement during transit.
  4. Label the Box: Clearly label the box as “Electronics” and include details about the contents. 

Additionally, if you’re moving for work, you might be eligible to claim moving expenses in Canada.

This can help offset some of the moving costs associated with moving your electronics and other valuable items.

Packing Jewelry and Small Valuables

Organizing Jewelry for Packing

Jewelry requires special care to avoid tangling and damage. Here’s how to pack your valuable jewelry items safely:

  1. Use a Jewelry Box: If you have a jewelry box, use it to keep items organized. Jewelry boxes are designed with compartments that can keep individual pieces separate, reducing the risk of tangling and scratching.
  2. Use Sealable Bags: Place wrapped jewelry in sealable bags to prevent tangling. For added security, you can place these bags in a larger, padded pouch or container.

Packing Small Valuables

For other small valuable items, such as watches or collectibles, follow these steps to ensure their safety during the move:

  1. Wrap individually: Use bubble wrap or packing paper to wrap each item individually. For instance, wrap your watch in bubble wrap, ensuring it is fully covered and secured with tape.
  2. Place in Small Boxes: Put the wrapped items in small, sturdy boxes. This provides an extra layer of protection and keeps the items from moving around too much. For example, place wrapped coins or small collectibles in individual boxes.
  3. Pack in a Larger Box: Place the small boxes in a larger box with additional padding. This larger box can be filled with packing peanuts or crumpled paper to ensure the smaller boxes don’t shift during transit.
  4. Label the Box: Clearly mark the larger box with “Jewelry” and indicate the contents. This ensures that the movers handle the box with extra care.

Final Tips for Moving Valuable Items

Consider Professional Packing Services

If you’re unsure about packing your valuable items, consider hiring professional packing services. 

These experts have the experience and materials needed to ensure your items are packed securely.

Professional packers are trained in how to pack valuable items when moving, ensuring that everything from fragile glassware to expensive electronics is handled with care. 

Additionally, if you plan to move with a dog, professional packers can help manage the extra logistics, allowing you to focus on your pet’s comfort and safety during the move.

Take Out Insurance

Even with the best packing techniques, accidents can happen. Ensure your valuable items are covered by moving insurance during the move.

Check with your moving company about available insurance options or consider purchasing additional coverage.

This step is crucial for protecting valuables during a move, as it provides financial protection in case of loss or damage.

Additionally, having insurance can help you prevent injuries on moving day by reducing the need to handle items multiple times due to damage concerns

Keep an Inventory and Monitor During Unpacking

After arriving at your new home, use your inventory list to check each valuable item as you unpack.

This will help you identify any damage or missing items quickly.

Make sure to unpack fragile items first, as they are the most susceptible to damage if left packed for too long.

  1. Inspect Items for Damage: As you unpack each item, inspect it for any signs of damage. Take photos of any damage and report it to your moving company or insurance provider immediately.
  2. Organize as You Unpack: Place items in their designated spots as you unpack. This will help you stay organized and make the settling-in process smoother.

By following these final tips for packing valuable items for a move, you can ensure that your prized possessions are well-protected and arrive safely at your new home. Moving valuable items doesn’t have to be stressful if you plan and pack carefully.