5 Tips For Packing Breakables
Whether you’re packing for a move or putting valuables into storage, it’s important to pack your most fragile items carefully. Materials made from glass, porcelain, ceramics or electronics run a higher risk of breaking or getting damaged when getting transported.
Here are a few tips to follow when you’re packing breakables to prevent them from cracking or shattering:
1. Have the Right Tools
Packing requires preparation – especially if you’re planning to package fragile items. You’ll need quality moving boxes or bins to put everything in, and they have to be the proper size (you wouldn’t get a large, 18”x 24” box for your jewelry).
In addition to the container, you’ll need equipment to package up the box like tape and scissors. Depending on what you’re packing, you’ll also want additional materials like bubble wrap or paper to wrap items in, or packing peanuts to stuff the box.
Make a list of all the tools you need in advance so you can have it ready to go when it’s time to pack.
2. Secure the Container
As simple as it sounds, the first step to packing is making sure your container is good to go. Boxes will need to have all of their seams and corners taped and secured before putting items in – otherwise, it will all spill out. Bins and plastic containers will need a lid that fits and stays in place.
Another way you can guarantee that your box stays safe is by labeling it after you fill it. Then, anyone can see that there are breakable items inside and will be careful when transporting it.
3. Wrap Items in Protective Material
The best way to secure your fragile objects is by wrapping them in additional, cushioning material. This can be done using paper, newspaper or bubble wrap. If your items have an unusual shape, use tape to get the material wrapped and secured around every complicated corner, handle or bit.
Having a protective layer covering your breakables will prevent them from coming into direct contact with hard surfaces. In the event that they do make contact, the cushioning will help minimize the damage.
4. Pack Objects Strategically
When it comes to placing your wrapped items into the packaging container, this also requires a delicate hand. You want to place your objects neatly into the box without piling everything on top of each other.
Start with the heavier items on the bottom, and work your way to placing the lighter, more breakable items on the top.
5. Fill in Extra Space
No matter how perfectly your container fits to your belongings, there will still be a little extra space in between the items that could cause problems. Even though everything should be wrapped, there still runs the risk of glasses clinking together and chipping if there is any impact that rattles them during transit.
If you’re packing smaller objects, use towels and old blankets to line the box and create separate layers. Paper and styrofoam peanuts are good for filling the small gaps in between each dishware.
Store Your Breakables Somewhere Safe
Carefully packing your breakable items is just the first step to protecting them. If you’re putting your valuable possessions into storage, you have to make sure they’ll be safe once you’re gone.
The best place to store fragile material is in a climate-controlled storage facility. Glass, wood, ceramic and porcelain all need to be kept at a constant temperature – if it gets too hot or cold, the object could warp, crack or break. By keeping the temperature constant and preventing moisture build up, your belongings are more likely to last.
Storage Center has several indoor climate controlled storage facilities in Martinsville, VA. You can rent a unit of any size for your possessions.
On top of the consistent temperature, we also have top-notch security. With 24/7 surveillance and pin code access, you can rest easy knowing your most precious, breakable items are safe and secure within their packaging.
