Nobody wants to find their personal belongings damaged during a move. We’ve compiled some tips, to help you avoid disaster by packing antiques safely:
When packing antiques or collectibles for transport, the first thing you want to do is look over everything and make a list. Examine and clean everything off before you start packing. Your mover will want to make a note of any damage. This process will help you determine the best way to pack them.
Supplies for Packing Antiques
Start with high quality packing materials. Sturdy packaging will do a better job of protecting your collection. The following supplies will accommodate most of your needs when packing antiques:
• Boxes – They should be double or triple wall.
• Bubble wrap
• Acid free packing tissue
• Styrofoam packing peanuts
• Plastic stretch wrap
• Corrugated cardboard sheets
• Furniture bags and blankets
• Packaging tape and scotch tape
Tips for Packing Furniture
Begin packing antiques by removing anything stored inside them. Empty the contents of drawers or cabinets and pack them separately. Remove parts such as drawers, shelves, mirrors or glass panels and wrap them separately. Bubble wrap or stretch wrap works nicely. Doors should be secured shut with string or rubber straps. DO NOT use tape. It won’t do the job as well and is very likely to damage the paint or finish on your piece. Any delicate hardware should be removed if possible. Wheels or casters can be removed or you may want to use extra padding to wrap each leg and wheel to prevent damage. Furniture bags can help protect upholstery and wood furniture from dirt and moisture, but you may want to add stretch wrap as well. Use furniture blankets in the truck for extra protection.
Tips for Packing Fine China and Crystal
Wrap each piece individually in tissue first to protect the surface. DO NOT use old newspapers when packing antiques. The ink can smear, causing damage to your piece. Use corrugated cardboard sheets as a sleeve around the glasses and between plates for extra protection. Glasses can be put into a compartmentalized box and plates should stand on end.
Packing other Antiques
Items like figurines, dolls, small sculptures and vases should be wrapped in tissue first to protect the surface. You may want to add bubble wrap on top of the tissue but it shouldn’t touch the piece directly, as it can stick to some finishes. Place the item in a box with packing peanuts or bubble wrap. If an item is especially delicate, you may want to place the box inside a larger box with an additional layer of padding between them.
General Tips for Packing Antiques
A good rule of thumb for packing antiques and collectibles is to provide three layers of protection. First, surface protection is used to prevent scratches and chipped paint. Then the next step is using padding for protection against shock and vibration. Finally, use a harder outer shell such as a box or crate.
Styrofoam packing peanuts or bubble wrap should be used as padding inside boxes when packing antiques. Paper will become compact under the weight of the item and won’t offer as much cushioning. Fill the packing peanuts to the top of the box to prevent the item from moving around.
Tippet-Richardson can handle all your personal and commercial relocation needs from packing to storage and moving. Contact us today for a quote!
