Moving can be hard work, especially when you have to deal with certain difficult items for a mover. Whether it’s fragile items, oversized furniture, or special pieces, knowing how to manage them can make your move a lot smoother.
Handling difficult items during a move can lead to damages, delays, or even injuries if not done properly. Large furniture, delicate antiques, and awkwardly shaped items often require special tools and expertise.
In this blog, we’ll break down how to handle unusual or oversized items and offer tips for safely moving complex items.
How to Handle Fragile Items Like Art, Glassware, and Heirlooms
Fragile items such as artwork, glassware, and family heirlooms can be tricky to move. These are some of the most common difficult items for a mover, but you can keep them safe with the right packing materials and techniques.
| Fragile Item | Best Packing Material | Tips for Moving |
|---|---|---|
| Art/Frames | Bubble wrap, cardboard corner guards | Use extra padding and tape to secure delicate edges |
| Glassware | Foam sheets, packing paper | Wrap individually and fill gaps in boxes with paper |
| Heirlooms | Bubble wrap, soft cloth | Wrap carefully and avoid stacking them in boxes |
Example: When moving glassware, wrapping each item individually in foam sheets and filling gaps with packing paper prevents movement during transit. Always label the box as "Fragile" and mark it with "Handle with Care."
Better safe than sorry – Taking the time to pack fragile items carefully will save you from the regret of damaged valuables later.
Moving Large or Awkward Furniture Items
Moving unusual or oversized items, like large furniture and appliances, requires extra planning. These items are not always heavy but are often awkward to carry and fit through doorways.
| stretch film | before moving | |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Empty contents, tape doors shut | Clean thoroughly and let it dry before moving |
| Mattress | Use a mattress cover or bag | Fold and secure with straps for easier handling |
Example: When moving a refrigerator, empty all contents, unplug it, and let it defrost before wrapping the doors with stretch film. This ensures there’s no leaking or damage during the move.
Measure twice, move once – Double-check your measurements to avoid getting stuck in a tight spot during the move.
Read More: Same-Day Movers - Everything You Should Know for a Stress-Free Move
Tackling Special Items Like Pianos and Aquariums
Don’t bite off more than you can chew – When handling complex items like pianos, it’s better to get professional help than risk.
Some items are large and require special handling. Moving special items, like pianos and aquariums, can be minimized by hiring experts or using proper equipment.
| Special Item | Challenge | Example Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| Piano | Heavy, fragile, and awkward shape | Hire professional piano movers with the right tools |
| Aquarium | Fragile glass and live fish | Move fish separately in smaller containers, drain the water |
Example: For pianos, professional movers use specialized dollies and padding to ensure safe transport. Aquariums should be emptied, and fish can be transported in containers to minimize stress during the move.
Moving Delicate or Bulky Electronics Like TVs
Televisions and other electronics can be challenging to move due to their size and fragile screens. Ensuring that they are properly packed and protected is crucial to avoid damage during the move. These are difficult items for moving professionals, but with a few precautions, you can keep them safe.
| Electronic Item | Best Packing Method | Example Tips |
|---|---|---|
| TVs | Flat TV box, foam inserts | Use a thick blanket for extra protection if |
| Computers | Bubble wrap, hard plastic containers | Backup data before packing; wrap all cords separately |
| Gaming Consoles | Original box or bubble wrap | Label cords and accessories to make reassembly easy |
Example: When moving a TV, using a flat-screen TV box with foam inserts will prevent it from shifting during the move. If a box isn’t available, wrap the TV securely in a thick blanket and tape the edges to keep it in place.
Challenges in Moving Pets
Moving pets is not as straightforward as transporting furniture. Keeping them calm and comfortable during the move requires preparation and care. Moving pets, especially exotic ones, can be considered complex items to move, as they need special care and attention.
| Pet Type | Moving Tips | Example Challenges |
|---|---|---|
| Dogs/Cats | Use a comfortable travel crate, stop frequently | Anxiety from travel, adjusting to a new environment |
| Fish | Transport in sealed bags or containers | Stress and temperature changes during the move |
| Exotic Pets | Check local regulations, use a sturdy crate | Permits may be needed, and unique dietary needs |
Example: When moving fish, it’s essential to transport them in individual sealed bags or containers and keep the water at the right temperature. Exotic pets may require you to check regulations and get special permits.
Related: Moving with Pets - Proven Strategies for a Smooth Transition
Handling Vehicles During a Move
When moving to a new location, transporting your vehicle can present its own challenges. Whether you're driving it yourself or using an auto-shipping service, there is a lot of paperwork involved.
| Vehicle Type | Moving Tips | Example Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| Cars | Drive yourself or use an auto-shipping service | Ensure registration and insurance are updated |
| Motorcycles | Use specialized movers or trailers | Secure properly to prevent shifting during transport |
| Boats | Check for transport permits, use trailers | Inspect for damages and secure loose parts |
Example: When moving a car, you need to update your vehicle registration and insurance in the new state. If shipping, ensure the car is properly secured on the transport truck to prevent shifting.
Moving Plants and Ensuring Their Safety
Plants might not seem like difficult items to move, but they require special care to avoid damage or stress from changes in temperature and environment. These are difficulties in moving special items that often catch people by surprise.
| Plant Type | Moving Tip | Example Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| Houseplants | Move to plastic pots for lighter-weight | Keep them in the car with you for temperature control |
| Outdoor Plants | Transplant carefully into portable containers | Ensure roots are kept moist during transport |
Example: Houseplants should be placed in plastic pots to make them lighter, and it’s best to move them in the car to maintain a controlled temperature. Avoid leaving plants in a hot moving truck.
Moving Items That Require Special Permits
By the book – Follow all legal guidelines to ensure a smooth and trouble-free move for items that require special permits.
Certain items, like firearms or large quantities of alcohol, may require special permits for transport. These items can be difficult for moving professionals to transport as they have legal restrictions.
| Item Type | Moving Requirement | Example Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| Firearms | Obtain proper permits for a new location | Store in a locked, secure container during transport |
| Alcohol | Check for limits on alcohol quantities | Pack securely to avoid breakage, ensure compliance |
| Exotic Animals | Check for permits and transportation regulations | Ensure proper documentation for crossing state or country borders |
Example: If you’re moving to a new state with firearms, you’ll need to check the local laws and apply for the necessary permits to legally transport them. Always keep them secured and out of reach during the move.
Tackling the Move of Aquariums and Their Contents
Treading water —Moving an aquarium requires careful planning to ensure that both the tank and the fish arrive safely and without issues.
Aquariums present a unique challenge because they require both the safe transport of fragile glass and the health of aquatic life. Moving an aquarium is one of the most difficult items for a mover, and planning ahead is important.
| Aquarium Type | Moving Tips | Example Solutions |
|---|---|---|
| Small Tanks | Drain water, transport fish in separate containers | Move the tank separately to avoid any cracks or leaks |
| Large Aquariums | Hire a professional aquarium moving service | Ensure proper handling of both glass and aquatic life |
Example: When moving a small tank, it’s important to drain the water and transport fish separately in smaller containers. The tank itself should be moved empty to avoid any cracks or leaks.
