How To Protect Your Possessions While Moving

 

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A common time for possessions to get damaged and lost is while moving home. By taking measures to protect your possessions, you can reduce the risk of them getting lost or broken. Below are just a few useful protective tips to consider. 

Use the right protective packaging

On top of buying some sturdy cardboard boxes, you may want to consider some other forms of packaging for fragile items. For example, when it comes to packing glasses, it could be worth investing in some bubble wrap, and possibly some boxes with dividers to prevent movement. Other specialist packaging to look into include hanging garment carriers that allow you to hang up clothes and cushioned mirror boxes. 

Label objects that are fragile

If a box contains fragile items, make sure that it is clearly labelled ‘fragile’. You or any other person that handles the box will then know to take care - which could include making sure that it’s not knocked or that it hasn’t got another box stacked on top. You can buy boxes with fragile printed on them or fragile stickers, or you can simply label them using a marker. 

Tape paintings and mirrors

Mirrors and paintings with glass screens can be prone to cracking and shattering while moving them. You may be able to prevent this simply by using duct tape to tape an X across the front of the mirror or painting - this can help add extra support to prevent the glass breaking. 

Hire the right professional movers

Another effective way to protect your possessions while moving them is to hire professional movers instead of handling your possessions yourself. When it comes to bulky possessions and fragile possessions, a professional moving company will know exactly how to carry them and store them for transit. Of course, you shouldn’t just hire any old moving company, but one that is appropriate for your move and reputable. For example, there are interstate removalists that you can hire who specialise in long journeys - these professionals are more likely to protect your possessions from damage or loss during a long-distance move. To make sure that a professional moving company is trustworthy, check online reviews to see how positive they are. Professional movers should also be able to provide contracts and should have someone available to handle questions. Be wary of very low pricing, as it could mean that a professional moving company is making up for a poor reputation. 

Make sure your possessions are insured

Finally, you should consider insuring your possessions against loss and damage while moving. This won’t prevent loss or damage occurring, however it will provide you with financial compensation if your possessions are misplaced or broken, allowing you to repair or replace them. Some home insurance policies cover your contents while moving. If you don’t already have home insurance that covers you, then you should consider taking out removals cover. Be wary that some professional movers will have insurance in place that covers loss and damage.