When you first think of moving – the first thing that most of us think about is all the cardboard boxes and packing everything up. However, once you get into it you start to realize how many things are so very fragile and need some extra protection! Things like picture frames and mirrors can’t simply be tossed into a box with the rest of your pots, pans, or pillows.
With moving companies like us, you don’t have to worry about your fragile items, but we know that sometimes you like to do things on your own – so here are a few tips to keep your mirrors and picture frames safer during a move.
Start with supplies and preparation
You can’t pack fragile items if you don’t have the right supplies to do it. Here are some things you can use to pack them up to keep them safe:
- Picture and mirror boxes with telescopic options
These boxes are specially made to store, move, and ship mirrors and framed art. It encases the entire mirror or frame in a protective shell. Some boxes, like U-Hauls Large Mirror and Picture Box, can telescope together to fit larger pieces. - Cardboard shipping tubes
These can be used to move posters and large prints and prevent wrinkling or tearing. Remember to get the right size, then carefully roll it up and pop it into the tube. - Banker’s boxes
These boxes are sturdy and stackable, which make them the best option to carry loose photos, photo albums and other paper objects. - Packing tape
Hopefully you already have this one – but be sure to have a durable packing tape when moving. You don’t want to opt for the cheapest option and then have your boxes falling apart during the move. - Glassine
Glassine is a smooth paper that is air, water, and grease resistant. You can use this to wrap your artwork instead of plastic wrap. Glassine will protect your fragile items from scratches and marks. - Bubble wrap
Use plenty of bubble wrap (or packing paper) to fill up the spaces between your mirrors, frames, and other objects. These provide cushioning and protection while in transit. - Corner protectors
These provide added protection to keep frames and mirrors from breaking while in their boxes. - Sharpie or a marker
Remember to label every box so that you have the advantage of knowing exactly where everything is and not having to open each box to figure it out.
Once you have all your supplies at the ready, move on to the next steps to pack-up.
- Protect mirrors and picture frames with a layer of bubble wrap, Glassine, or both, and secure with tape. If needed, cover the corners with corner protectors.
- Lay some sheets of packing paper on the ground and place the mirror or frame (with the glass-side down) on top of the paper. Wrap it carefully and secure with tape. The more fragile it is, the more layers you can add.
- Put an extra layer of packing paper inside the picture and mirror box and then add the protected fragile item. Make sure to fill gaps with more packing paper or bubble wrap, and then seal the box with tape. Remember to label the box and to write “fragile” on every side.
- No need to get picture boxes for small frames – put those in the banker’s boxes. Remember their protective layering of Glassine, packing paper or bubble wrap!
- For loose photos, you can either add them to an album, or a plastic (waterproof) bag. The albums and bags can also be added to the boxes.
- Remember to keep an eye on where the mirrors and boxes with fragile items are so that they don’t get crushed and damaged by heavier objects in transit.
- Better yet – get our team of professional movers to help you out so that you don’t have to stress!