Moving in Michigan, with its unique landscapes and weather patterns, can present its own set of challenges, especially when it comes to fragile items. Whether you’re relocating within the bustling streets of Detroit, the scenic shores of the Great Lakes, or the peaceful countryside of the Thumb region, ensuring the safety of your delicate possessions is crucial. We found 5 key Michigan moving tips that you will find a bit useful in your next move.
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Essential Tips for Packing Fragile Items When Moving
Have you ever owned elegant dinnerware, then checked up on it sometime later, only to find that you broke some pieces on your latest move? Fragile items like these are at risk of damage, especially when moving to a new place.
More often than not, you’re bound to find a few broken items when unpacking. These losses are even more pronounced when dealing with pricey, fragile items.
This begs the question: how can you protect your fragile belongings when moving? The answer comes down to one thing: packing them the right way. In that regard, here are some essential tips for packing fragile items.
Use the Right Packing Materials
Fragile items need a lot of cushioning to protect them from the shock of impact with other items in the moving vehicle. Therefore, using an ordinary box without an additional layer to offer protection just won’t cut it.
Also, various fragile materials require different degrees of cushioning and may require different packing materials. The trick to finding the most suitable packing materials is laying out all your delicate items and selecting a suitable packing material for each.
For instance, materials like packing peanuts work well with larger fragile items since they help fill the empty spaces on the box. This helps prevent them from colliding with other items in the box, minimizing the possibility of damage.
Similarly, bubble wrap and ordinary paper work pretty well in securing glassware. By providing a protective covering and protecting individual pieces from scratching and colliding with each other, these materials can effectively limit the possibility of damage.
For larger fragile items like furniture and other glassware, consider using padded inserts and furniture pads to help keep them in their proper place.
Choose the Right Box Size
When it comes to moving boxes, bigger doesn’t always mean better. What works well for your kitchen blender may not be suitable for keeping vases, mugs, and plates. When choosing the correct box size, you must first consider the size of your items and the level of protection they need. For instance, heavier items require firmer boxes to handle the extra weight.
Once you figure out the correct box size, wrap your fragile items with a protective material and pack them tightly. The tighter you pack your items, the less space they have to move around during transit.
Label Your Boxes Accordingly
Your moving company is only human, no matter how good they are. There’s always the possibility that someone makes a mistake and mishandles a box containing fragile items. That’s why it’s always advisable to label your boxes accordingly. This way, anybody handling fragile items will know what they are and be better able to handle them carefully.
Use Dividers for Added Protection
Cardboard dividers work well when packing small, fragile items like glassware. They provide added protection by packing the items closer together. When combined with a little paper or bubble wrap, these dividers can efficiently cushion your fragile items.
Pack Electronic Devices in Their Original Packaging
Unboxing a new electronic is always a delight, but what do you do with the boxes? If you still have them, now might be the right time to put them to use. Electronics’ original packaging provides excellent protection for your valuable devices since they are made to the product’s specifications. They also come with additional protection to keep the products in place.
That said, it helps to wrap electronics like TVs and monitors with a screen in bubble wrap. The screen is the most fragile part of the device and can easily be damaged by impacts and scratches.
If you do not have the original packaging for your electronics, try looking for a similarly sized box. You should also add additional protection like bubble wrap and packing peanuts to help hold everything in place.
Additionally, it is advisable to pack your cables in a different box. This helps reduce the potential for scratch damage and makes it easier to unpack since you don’t have to deal with the tedious task of untangling cables.
Disassemble Bulky Furniture
Moving bulky furniture is always a challenge. The strain it puts on your muscles is enough to make anyone question the thought of moving again. What’s even more concerning is the level of damage it puts on the furniture.
Disassembling your furniture makes it easier to move around tight corners and increases your chances of safely getting it where it needs to be.
While you’re at it, it also helps to wrap and secure these items to prevent them from moving around in transit. This also applies to other fragile pieces of furniture, like wall mirrors, which have a significantly higher chance of breakage. For mirrors and other furniture with glass fittings, consider adding a large piece of cardboard on the front and back side of the mirror/glass and sandwiching it with bubble wrap for extra protection.
Protecting Valuables During Transit – Use Plenty of Packing Tape
Never go slow with your packing tape. Use as much of it as you need to secure your items properly and keep them intact to prevent them from moving around in the box. Packing tape also works well for holding paper in place when packing glassware and other dinnerware.
Safe Moving Strategies Michigan – Take Your Time
It’s never advisable to pack in a rush. Besides the obvious possibility of misplacing a few items, there’s always the chance you won’t pack everything correctly. Therefore, take your time when packing your items. Group similar items together and use appropriate protection materials while ensuring everything goes where it should.
3 Things to Know About Using Self-Storage Services in Michigan
One overlooked of all the Michigan moving tips is using self-storage. Several key considerations can enhance your experience when using self-storage services in Michigan. Firstly, compare prices and features of different providers to get the best deal (SpareFoot). Also, consider the unit’s location, size, and security measures. Ensure you understand the terms of the contract, including any penalties for late payment or early termination (Michigan.gov). Lastly, ensure your belongings are packed properly to avoid damage.
Michigan Storage Services With Climate-Controlled Units
In Michigan, the weather can vary dramatically, from sweltering summers to freezing winters. Climate-controlled storage units are essential to protect your fragile items from extreme temperature fluctuations.
Accessibility
Consider the location of your storage unit. In Michigan, you’ll want a unit that’s easily accessible even in snowy or rainy conditions. Look for storage services with good road access and close proximity to major Michigan towns and cities.
Security Features
Given the diverse nature of Michigan’s regions, from urban areas to secluded countryside, ensure your chosen storage facility has robust security features like surveillance cameras, gated access, and individual alarms.
Ready to Pack for Your Next Move?
Remember, moving in Michigan, with its diverse regions from the urban sprawls to the lakeside towns, requires thoughtful preparation. If you’re considering a moving company, look for those familiar with Michigan’s geography and climate, ensuring they can navigate everything from snowy roads to narrow rural paths.
Final Thoughts About Michigan Moving Tips
Whether you’re a long-time Michigan resident or new to the Great Lakes State, these tips will help ensure your fragile items stay safe and intact during your move. Embrace the beauty and diversity of Michigan with peace of mind, knowing your treasured belongings are well-protected.
