6 Tips for Protecting Big Ticket Items During a Move

Moving to a new home is an exciting adventure, but it also comes with its fair share of challenges. One of the most crucial aspects of any move is ensuring the safety and protection of your big-ticket items. These valuable possessions, such as furniture, electronics, artwork, and jewelry, require extra care to prevent damage during the moving process. To help you safeguard your prized belongings, we’ve compiled 6 essential tips for protecting big-ticket items during a move.

1.  Plan Ahead & Take Inventory

Meticulous planning is the best way to prevent mishaps during the moving process. Before you begin packing, take some time to create a comprehensive inventory of all big-ticket items, including electronics, expensive furniture, and jewelry. Once you have a complete list, you can determine which items require special packing materials, disassembly, or professional handling.

2.  Use Specific, High-Quality Packing Materials

Did you know that there are packing materials designed for specific items? This includes boxes designed to hold artwork or electronics, packaging materials that keep fragile items safe during shipping, and bags that cover large pieces of furniture.

Regardless of what types of materials you use, always make sure you are using high-quality packing supplies. From cardboard boxes to packing peanuts, your materials should be well-made and in good condition.

3.  Clearly Label Big Ticket & Fragile Items

Clear and visible labels can make a significant difference in how your belongings are handled throughout the moving process. Be sure to label all sides of a box, and include specific handling instructions. For example, if a box contains delicate glassware, add a label that says “Handle with Care – Glassware Inside.”

By taking the time to label your fragile items clearly and appropriately, you are taking proactive steps to protect your big-ticket items during the move. Proper labelling is a simple way to communicate the importance of handling these items with care and significantly reduces the likelihood of accidental damage.

4.  Disassemble Furniture

Disassembling large items will make the moving process far more manageable, and it will also reduce the risk of accidental damage. Rather than trying to maneuver large pieces of furniture through doorways and up or down stairs, disassemble them first to simplify handling and transportation.

When disassembling furniture, it’s always a good idea to have assembly instructions handy (if they’re available). As you disassemble, place small parts into labelled containers. You may also want to write down instructions and take pictures to serve as references when you’re ready for re-assembly.

5.  Use Caution When Loading and Unloading

The loading and unloading phase is where the majority of moving accidents occur. Mishaps are more likely to occur during these periods due to the physical exertion involved and the potential for accidents. However, with proper care and caution, you can significantly reduce the risk of damage to your valuable possessions.

Always exercise caution when loading and unloading your big-ticket items. Make sure pathways are clear before you start moving, and use equipment like dollies whenever necessary. Lastly, don’t forget to take breaks and drink water, especially if you’re lifting heavy items!

6.  Hire Professional Movers

When it comes to moving big-ticket items, enlisting the help of professional movers is one of the smartest decisions you can make. These experienced and well-equipped professionals are trained to handle delicate and valuable belongings, so you can rest assured knowing that your valuables are in safe hands.

At Eager Beaver Moving & Storage, we offer pre-move packing services so our customers can avoid the headaches that come with the packing process. Our crew of professional packers will ensure your belongings are securely packed into moving boxes, then clearly labelled and organized. Once we arrive at your new location, we can also help with set up and reassembly.

Packing Supplies & Moving Boxes in Edmonton

Looking for packing materials or moving containers in the Edmonton area? Look no further than Eager Beaver! Alongside our comprehensive moving solutions, we also offer a variety of high-quality moving supplies–including bubble wrap, moving blankets, packing paper, and more. Check out our online store to see what we have for your next move.