How to Pack Family Heirlooms

Big Foot Moving & Storage, Inc. knows that there are certain items that need special protection such as family heirlooms and antiques. These items are simply irreplaceable if broken or damaged, making proper packing techniques an absolute must. Different types of family heirlooms will require different packing methods to ensure their safety.

Before You Pack

Before you begin packing any family heirlooms, organize a document that records the current condition of any items, including any pre-existing damage. This document will allow you to keep track of all the items you have packed and make sure that none of them are harmed in the packing, storage, and moving process.

Packing China, Pottery, Ceramics, and Glass

One of the key tricks for packing fine china, pottery, porcelain, or other highly breakable heirlooms is double boxing. First, pack items carefully into a single box. Add newsprint inside any glasses, vases, or other open vessels to support them. Make sure that all items are well padded with newsprint, packing peanuts, and other cushioning materials before sealing the box. Next, place that box inside a larger box and add padding around all sides to cushion the inner box in the event that it is dropped or bumped. These items cannot be replaced, so there is no reason not to be extra careful in the packing process.

Packing and Moving Furniture

Furniture can be difficult to pack because it is so large. You can’t simply box it up and put it away. You should, however, take apart any components that can be separated, such as headboards, mirrors attached to dressers, and dresser drawers. Wrap all chair, table, and sofa legs, as well as any delicate corners of your heirloom furniture in bubble wrap to protect it from being bumped. Where there is upholstery involved, cover with blankets or other cloth covers to prevent tears, rips, or stains. When packing heirloom furniture, never stack pieces.

Precautions for Packing Art

When packing paintings, start by covering the entire piece with glassine paper, followed by clear plastic. Paintings should then be surrounded with cardboard and padding for the move. It is also possible to get custom crates made for packing and moving art. Always stand paintings up when moving them; laying paintings flat makes it tempting to stack things on top of them.

Consider Valuation

Of course, the best protection is choosing top-notch moving and storage experts, such as Big Foot Moving & Storage, Inc. However, before you move any family heirlooms, be sure to have them scheduled on your renters/homeowners policy. While mover’s valuation protection can’t replace a lost or damaged item, it can at least provide compensation for any harm done to heirlooms in the packing and moving process.