Moving to a new house can be a very exciting prospect. However, getting down to the actual logistics of it all (packing boxes, cleaning and rearranging) is never even half as enjoyable – and, that’s a massive understatement! It can be even more frustrating when possessions go astray or get damaged in the move. So, how do you best protect your fragile items when it’s time to move house?

Reputation is everything

Hiring a company to do the heavy lifting for you is all about being selective. Read reviews, shop around (get a few quotes) and, if possible, seek out ‘word-of-mouth’ referrals and testimonials. Companies should be upfront in providing these details, which is why our website displays transparent information – clearly showing that we use handpicked expert removalists for ultimate peace-of-mind. What else should be on your checklist? Always insure your service is licenced and insured, and has a very low track record of damage incurred (ask for a percentage factor).

What should you avoid in a removalist company? Basically, remember anything that seems too good to be true – probably is! Make sure you bypass super low cost estimates from newbie companies, especially if they don’t have a physical address. Also, take a wide berth of any moving crew that rocks up with vans that look like their own vehicles (and not a professional fleet), and those that demand cash payment upfront (instead of allowing for credit cards). These are massive red flags that could mean your goods will be in the hands of someone who will do a rush job and break your things – and, worst case scenario could do a runner!

Packing by the pros

If you are super worried about your fragile items whilst moving, you can always engage a professional packing service to take all the guesswork out of the equation. Should you choose to do so, you can put your more precious belongings in the hands of specially trained individuals who know exactly how to wrap potential breakables. With the ability to choose as much or as little as you like, it’s a great option for anyone who wants to guarantee safe transport of their goods (and/or are low on time/energy).

Your professional packing staff will make use of specialised materials, commonly secured in sturdy purpose-designed cartons. They will also gauge how to minimise risks during transit. An added bonus is that using a professional packer may actually reduce your total number of boxes used – making your move much less time consuming and so much more economical. Did you know that you can even decide to have them unpack for you? Now, that sounds like a dream come true!

DIY with dedication

If you are going to take the route of doing moving delicate items yourself, then make sure you do so with the utmost care. Tip number one is to make sure you leave yourself enough time to do it properly. You don’t want to be in a hurry – that’s how you end up with broken glasses, ruined ornaments and destroyed keepsakes at the end of your move. After a long day, week or even month spent moving, finding your beloved belongings cracked and crushed can be enough to make you cry!

Make sure you use the right materials, such as bubble wrapped (neatly wrapped and secured around fragile items), loose fill/packing peanuts (to fill empty space in a box to cushion against damage), corrugated cardboard (designed for insulation) and heavy grade paper (to pack around objects and to use for wadding). It’s important to configure your items correctly in each box/package, and make sure your apply common sense to different types of fragile goods. Last (but not least) make sure you clearly label each box, so that your removalists will know how to respond – dependant on the type of materials contained inside.

Handle with care

You should always apply a high level of detail to all aspects of moving house. This need is emphasised due to the fact that when it really comes down to it – all the practicalities can become very arduous. It is so easy to get caught up. Plan well beforehand to keep things flowing smoothly, and to provide the lowest chance of anything breaking or going bust in the process. That’s the right kind of ‘smashing solution’ – to make relocating a breeze!