How to Pack Items You Don’t Use Often

Many advice guides tell you how to get rid of items you don’t use before a move. That doesn’t apply to everything, though.

Sometimes you have things you don’t (or can’t) use, but you still want to keep. And you need an excellent way to pack them.

These tips will make it easier to determine what you need to keep and preserve them for travel.

Consider Your Moving Options

When you’re moving high-value or irreplaceable items, it’s a good idea to think about how to transport them. Sometimes you want to put them on the truck. Sometimes you don’t.

If you’re driving separately, you may want to consider moving some of the items with you. Make sure to leave space for your essentials and luggage.

This approach works well for items that are hard to pack, too. If you can’t box it or wrap it, it’s probably best to keep it with you.

Change the Box

If you’ve already got your items in a box, it’s time to evaluate the container. The stuff sitting in the attic or basement for five years might pick up pests or water damage.

The ideal containers for precious items, especially old documents, will minimize fading or dust collection. Avoid cardboard unless you’re putting an archive-quality container inside it.

Remember to label the box as fragile or essential. That way, you’ll be able to find it right away on moving day.

Clean and Appraise Items

If you don’t know how to clean the items, you may want to hire a restorer to take care of them. Dust accumulation can damage collectibles, but the wrong cleaning approaches could be worse.

As a general rule, take a light touch to clean. A soft brush can remove dirt without chipping paint.

Before you load them up, consider asking a professional to appraise them. Collections change in value all the time. The amount they can go up or down within a few years might surprise you.

Protect Your Collections

The last thing you want is a broken item. It happens sometimes, but you should try to avoid it.

Using bubble wrap and packing paper can only go so far. If it’s worth a lot of money, you might want to invest in custom foam packaging to keep everything in place. Or ask your moving company if they have a costume crating service to protect it.

This goes for anything made out of porcelain or glass or items that are particularly old or fragile. Spending a little now is a lot easier than paying for expensive repair or restoration later.

Think About What You Want to Keep

When you’re moving boxes from one house to another, it’s wise to think about what you’re keeping and why. Preserving a valuable collection you love is one thing. Hanging onto heirlooms that you don’t like is another.

Instead of holding onto every collection, consider what you like and use. Other family members might delight in Grandma’s quilts, even if you don’t. In some cases, selling it is also a reasonable choice.

Moving With Care

Protecting your valuables is a big part of moving. Finding a good moving company is another. To learn more about our services, contact us today.

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