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Whether moving across town or the country, protecting your furniture during transit requires careful planning and proper materials. Suppose you’re considering hiring a moving company in Orlando or planning to handle the move yourself. In that case, this comprehensive guide will help you ensure your valuable pieces arrive safely at your new home.
Moving blankets, bubble wrap, plastic stretch wrap, packing tape, foam padding, and corrugated cardboard sheets form the foundation of furniture protection during a move. Moving blankets protect wood surfaces and upholstery from scratches and tears, while bubble wrap provides cushioning for delicate areas. Plastic stretch wrap secures padding in place and protects against moisture and dirt. Custom crating materials might be necessary for particularly valuable pieces. Having an ample supply of these materials ready before starting ensures you won’t need to pause mid-wrap to gather more supplies.
Before wrapping any furniture piece, conduct a thorough cleaning and documentation process. Remove all items from drawers and shelves, and secure any loose parts. Take photos of your furniture from multiple angles to document its current condition and have a reference for reassembly if needed. For pieces that can be disassembled, take them apart and keep the hardware in labeled bags. Clean all surfaces thoroughly, as dirt and debris can scratch surfaces under wrapping materials during transit. Apply furniture polish to wood surfaces – this extra layer of protection helps prevent scratches.
Large upholstered items like sofas require several layers of protection. Start with a plastic wrap layer to protect against moisture and dirt, followed by moving blankets secured with packing tape. For wooden furniture, begin with a bubble wrap layer, paying special attention to corners and legs. Cover with moving blankets, securing them tightly with stretch wrap or tape. Tables require special attention – wrap legs individually with bubble wrap, then use cardboard to protect edges and corners. Mirror-finish surfaces need extra cushioning with foam padding before applying outer layers of protection.
Antique and high-value furniture demands extra protection measures. Create custom cardboard corner protectors for ornate details and carved elements. Use acid-free materials for any parts in direct contact with finished surfaces. Consider building wooden crates for extremely valuable pieces, with custom foam inserts to prevent movement during transport. Document any existing damage or weak points, and apply extra padding to these areas. For pieces with delicate finishes, use only materials specifically designed for antique furniture to prevent chemical reactions that could damage the surface.
Proper wrapping only provides part of the protection – correct loading techniques complete the safety measures. Create a detailed plan for furniture placement in the moving truck, keeping heavy items low and evenly distributed. Use furniture straps to secure pieces to the truck walls, preventing shifting during transit. Place protective barriers between pieces that will touch during transport. For items traveling long distances, consider adding silica gel packets under the wrapping to absorb moisture. Label each piece clearly with contents, destination room, and handling instructions.
