Tips for Moving Fragile Furniture
I’m relocating in a few days and planning to hire a man & van with two people (a driver and an assistant). Most of my belongings are boxes, but I do have a few pieces of furniture: an IKEA Kallax, a small bookcase, a folding sofa, and a cabinet with sliding glass doors. I’ve never moved with furniture before, so I’m unsure about how to prepare these items, especially the heavier cabinet.
I think the Kallax, bookcase, and sofa should be relatively straightforward since they are lightweight and compact. However, I’m particularly concerned about the cabinet with the glass doors. What’s the best way to secure it for the move and ensure the glass doesn’t break? It’s only a short 5-minute drive, but I want to make sure everything is properly protected.
Thanks for your help!
Hi there! It sounds like you have an exciting move ahead of you. Here are some tips to help you prepare your fragile furniture, especially the cabinet with sliding glass doors:
Disassemble if Possible: If your cabinet can be disassembled (remove shelves or detach doors), do that first. It will make it easier to transport and reduce the risk of damage.
Protect the Glass: For the glass doors, use cardboard or bubble wrap to cover them. You can secure the padding with tape, but be careful not to let the tape stick to the glass itself. If the doors are removable, consider taking them off and wrapping them separately.
Use Moving Blankets: Wrap your smaller furniture pieces in moving blankets or thick towels. This will provide cushioning and prevent scratches. Secure them with packing tape or tie them with rope.
Label Everything: Clearly label boxes and items that contain fragile items. Make sure to indicate which side is up to avoid mishandling.
Load Strategically: When loading the van, place heavier items at the bottom and lighter, fragile items on top. Make sure the cabinet is secured so it doesn’t tip over or shift during the drive.
Communicate with Your Movers: Let the man & van team know about any delicate items and your concerns. They can often provide additional support and ensure extra care is taken.
Consider a Moving Kit: If you don’t have packing materials, you can buy a moving kit that includes boxes, bubble wrap, and packing tape.
Even with a short drive, taking these precautions can help ensure your furniture arrives safely. Good luck with your move!
Great tips for moving fragile furniture! As a London resident who’s been through a few moves myself, I’d like to add some thoughts that might help you ensure a smooth transition.
Firstly, for your cabinet with sliding glass doors, consider removing the glass panels entirely if possible. Wrap them separately in bubble wrap or moving blankets, and secure with packing tape. Label the panels clearly to make reassembly easier.
For the cabinet itself, use sturdy moving straps or blankets to prevent scratches and protect it from sudden jolts. It’s also a good idea to secure the sliding doors with tape or clips to prevent accidental opening during transit.
Since you’ll be moving in London, where street parking can be tricky, ensure to reserve a space in advance if possible, and inform your removal team about any parking restrictions to avoid delays.
Finally, make sure your furniture is evenly distributed in the van to prevent shifting, especially during those short, seemingly straightforward drives. Using additional padding or foam inserts around delicate items can offer extra protection.
Wishing you a smooth relocation! Moving can be stressful, but with proper preparation, your furniture—and your nerves—will thank you.