With Memorial Day behind us now, we’ve officially entered the busiest time of year for moving around Chicago, Illinois. In addition to figuring out what items will be coming to your new apartment, condo, or home, you will also need to learn how to carefully pack and transport the most fragile pieces from your current space.
As Chicago’s experts in moving, Aaron Bros has created a short guide to help you carefully pack away the most fragile and expensive items in your home.
Step 1: Create A Checklist Of Fragile Items
When you think of fragile items in your home, the only thing that might come to mind is your kitchen glasses and paintings. Anything can be fragile depending on its value to you. Antique furniture, pieces of artwork, lamps, and other freestanding items can all be considered fragile items that need to be wrapped.
Step 2: Gather the necessary supplies
Collect the following packing materials before you start:
- Sturdy boxes in various sizes
- Bubble wrap or packing paper
- Packing tape
- Foam packing peanuts or packing paper for cushioning
- Moving blankets or furniture pads
- Marker pens for labeling
Step 3: Prepare the fragile items
Inspect each fragile item for any existing damage. Take photos if needed for insurance purposes. Remove any loose parts or detachable components and pack them separately. If possible, disassemble large items to make them easier to transport.
Step 4: Wrap fragile items individually
Start with the most delicate items, such as glassware from the kitchen or delicate figurines. Wrap each item individually with bubble wrap or packing paper. Make sure the items are securely fastened before placing them into boxes For example, wrap a wine glass with bubble wrap, ensuring the stem and base are well-covered.
If you are having difficulty wrapping your items without the use of bubble wrap or packing paper, there is no need to be concerned. The next step will tackle this particular problem.
Step 5: Cushion the boxes
Line the bottom of the boxes with foam peanuts or crumpled packing paper to create a cushioning layer. This helps absorb shocks during transport. If you’re wondering how to pack fragile items without bubble wrap or packing paper layered around them, the key is to make the boxes they will be in as cushioned as possible. The less space and item in these boxes has to move with a cushion inside, the more shock they will be able to handle as it is transported to your new home.
For larger items, like freestanding artwork or paintings, wrap them in moving blankets or furniture pads to provide extra protection. Secure the blankets with packing tape and moving lines within a truck.
Step 6: Pack the smaller fragile items in boxes
Place the wrapped fragile items carefully into the boxes. Use smaller boxes for heavier items, as they are easier to lift and less likely to break under the weight. Fill any remaining gaps with foam peanuts or packing paper to prevent items from shifting during transit.
Step 7: Label the boxes
Clearly label each box as “Fragile” or “Handle with Care” using a marker pen. Additionally, mark the contents of each box for easier unpacking. Indicate the room where the box should be placed in the new home.
Step 8: Transporting fragile items
Load the boxes containing fragile items into the moving truck last, so they can be unloaded first. Carefully place the boxes upright and secure them to prevent shifting. For large furniture or antique pieces, consider hiring professional movers experienced in handling delicate items.
Step 9: Unpacking fragile items
When unpacking, take your time to ensure a safe and careful process. Start with the labeled boxes containing fragile items. Unpack each item individually, removing any packing material gently. Inspect the items for any damage and contact the moving company or insurance provider if necessary.
Remember, it’s important to take extra precautions and handle fragile items with care throughout the packing and moving process to ensure they arrive at your new home intact. If you’re looking for professional movers to help you pack and unpack your home this summer, look no further than Aaron Bros. We are always ready to help move your home or office inside, outside, or around Chicago. Contact our customer service team today.
