How to Pack Your Valuables During an International Move

An international move is an exciting adventure, but it can also bring a touch of worry about the safety of your prized possessions during the long journey.  The last thing you want is to arrive at your new home and discover damage to the things you hold dear. 

In 2020 alone, UK movers lost or damaged possessions worth over £1.3 billion during their relocations. That's why mastering the art of packing is essential.  With careful planning, the right materials, and expert techniques, you can rest assured that your belongings will arrive in the same condition they left, ready to transform your new house into a home.

Essential Materials

Packing for an international move goes beyond simply throwing things into boxes.  Investing in the right materials is essential for protecting your possessions during their journey. Here's a breakdown of the essentials:

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Essential Packing Supplies

Additional Supplies for Specific Needs:

• Dish Packs: Reinforced boxes for dishes and glassware.
• Wardrobe Boxes: Allow hanging clothes to stay wrinkle-free.
• Picture/Mirror Boxes: Flat, reinforced boxes for artwork and mirrors.
• Furniture Blankets: Protect surfaces from scratches and dings.

Where to Source Materials:

Deliver1 can provide high-quality packing supplies tailored to your needs. Alternatively, check specialist moving supply stores or online retailers.

Packing Techniques for Specific Items

A one-size-fits-all approach won't cut it when safeguarding your valuables during an international move.  Here are techniques for your most precious (and potentially troublesome) items:

Fragile Items:

• Individual Wrapping: Each piece of dishware, glassware, or ornament gets wrapped in packing paper, then bubble wrap.
• Nestling: Fill gaps within the box with packing peanuts or crumpled packing paper to prevent items from shifting and knocking against each other.
• Strategic Layering: Heavier items at the bottom, lighter ones on top.
• Dish Packs: These specialised boxes have dividers for extra protection.

Electronics:

• Original Packaging: This is ideal if you still have it.
• Anti-Static Bags: Protect components from static electricity.
• Secure Cords: Bundle and label cords to prevent tangling and potential damage.
• Padding: Wrap the entire item in bubble wrap, and fill box gaps with packing peanuts.

Artwork:

• Consult Your Removals Company: Large or highly valuable pieces may require crates or specialised wrapping techniques best handled by professionals.
• Smaller Artwork: Use picture boxes or wrap carefully in layers of packing paper and bubble wrap. Mark as "Fragile".

Furniture:

• Disassembly: Remove legs, shelves, or protruding parts if possible. Wrap individually and label hardware clearly.
• Protect Surfaces: Wrap tabletops, chair legs, and other exposed areas with furniture blankets or bubble wrap.
• Corners Matter: Pad sharp corners to prevent damage to the furniture itself and to surrounding boxes.

Important Note: If unsure about the best way to pack a specific item, don't hesitate to consult your removal company. They should have the experience and know-how to ensure even the most unusual or delicate items arrive safely.

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The 'Do Not Pack' List

While a meticulous packing job is crucial, some items should never find their way into your moving boxes. Here's why, and what to do with them instead:

Important Documents:

• Passports, Visas, Birth Certificates: These are needed for travel and establishing your residency in your new country. Keep them in a secure carry-on bag.
• Medical Records, Insurance Papers, Financial Documents: These may be needed unexpectedly. Have them easily accessible.

Hazardous Materials:

• Cleaning Products, Paints, Flammables: These pose risks in transit and may violate customs regulations. Dispose of them responsibly or give them away before moving.
• Batteries: Some types of batteries may require special handling or need to be transported separately.

High-Value  Items:

• Irreplaceable Jewellery, Family Heirlooms: Consider transporting these personally for maximum security, or check with your insurance provider about specialised coverage during your move.
• Large Amounts of Cash: Financial transactions are generally best handled across borders electronically for safety and ease of tracking.

Perishables:

• Food, Plants: These are likely to spoil in transit or may be prohibited at customs. Finish, donate, or dispose of these items before moving day.

Additional Notes:

• Medications: Keep essential medications with you, along with a copy of prescriptions in case you need refills in your new country.
• Sentimental Items: Small treasures you can't bear to part with are often best transported personally for peace of mind.

Unsure? Ask Us! Regulations can vary between countries. Our experts can advise you on specific restrictions and offer solutions for securely transporting any special items.

Partnering with an Expert

While careful packing is undeniably in your hands, some aspects of an international move are best left to the professionals.  An experienced international removals company like Deliver1 understands the nuances of long-distance moving. Our specialised materials, meticulous packing techniques, and knowledge of customs regulations offer an extra layer of protection for your belongings.

Particularly for fragile, valuable, or unusually shaped items, professional packers bring peace of mind.  Plus, working with a removals company means a detailed inventory of your shipment. This is invaluable should any insurance claims arise, and it makes unpacking at your new home that much smoother.

Ready to simplify your international move and ensure your treasured possessions arrive safe and sound? 

Contact Deliver1 on 0333 090 7053 or enter your details online for a personalised quote and let our expertise guide your belongings to their new home.