The Top 8 Most Commonly Damaged Items During a Move

Maintaining the integrity of your most precious items during moving is likely one of your most major concerns when relocating to a new home. Some items are more fragile than others and subject to damage. The last thing you want after moving is to need to worry about replacing some of your favorite and most valuable possessions. Make sure to pack the fragile items carefully and fill up all empty space in boxes during transport. Use plenty of packing tape to secure closed boxes and label containers as “Fragile” and “This Way Up”. When moving, be most cautious transporting these belongings to avoid having to replace this often irreplaceable items.

 The 8 Items Most at Risk of Damage When Moving

1. Glassware and Plates

Glassware, plates, and China are high-risk items for breaking or chipping during a move.  Extra steps need to be taken by using boxes specifically designed for transporting glassware and plates. Partitioned boxes with dividers work great and add extra cushioning to the boxes.

2. Electronic Items

Electronics, particularly if they are large bulky like a flat screen TV can present other challenges as well. If you have their original boxes, take advantage of them; if not, use a very similar style box. Remove cords and store them separately. Use more padding than you think you need with bubble wrap and blankets on the outside of the electronics’ boxes for added protection.

3. Sports Equipment

Many sports equipment items can be sensitive depending on the type of product. Again, use original boxes if you have them. Avoid mixing of these items with other things when packing to avoid damage during moving.

4. Home Decor

From artwork to lamps, home décor can present issues moving. Disassemble lamps and store the pieces separately. Wrap your art in paper to prevent scratches to the items.

5. Plants

It’s important to stop watering plants a day or so before moving so that they are lighter and less likely to leak, which can damage the boxes used for transporting them. Use boxes with holes in them if they fit, or utilize bags tied securely separate plants and protect loose branches while transporting. 

6. Furniture

With table legs, corners, and sofa arms, moving furniture from one place to another through tight corridors, up and down stairs can be difficult. Take apart your furniture when possible and wrap items with bubble wrap. Utilizing proper moving equipment goes a long way, so hiring professionals is often advised.

7. Mirrors and Frames

Frames are most sensitive to damage with their bulky shapes, so proper preparations need to be made. Mirrors present safety hazards if they break and should be transferred vertically with moving blankets carefully secured around them.

8. Bottle Collections

Just as you need to take care of your other glass items, your wine or spirits collection needs to be carefully packed and transported as well. Divided/cell boxes from a moving company or wine shop work well, and be sure to wrap each bottle individually with packing paper.

 Protect Your Belongings by Hiring Highly-Seasoned, Professional Movers

With moving all these delicate items, oftentimes its best to seek professional help and advice. Safely transporting your valuables, collectibles, and other personal belongings to your new home is of the utmost importance to the team here at Brooks Transfer & Storage. We understand how costly and frustrating damage to your personal items can be. We work hard to ensure that your belongings arrive at your new home as safely as possible and because of this we’ve earned an excellent reputation for our dedication to our customers in the Hamptons Road area. Don’t hesitate to call us today at 1-800-544-1265 or fill out our online contact form to ensure the integrity of your personal belongings during your next move. With close to 140 years of experience, you know you can always trust Brooks Transfer & Storage.