Moving Tips and Tricks – Packing Oddly-Shaped Objects

Moving Tips and Tricks: Packing Oddly-Shaped Objects 

Moving is a stressful process on its own, but packing odd-shaped objects makes it more complicated than it already is. When dealing with these items, you will need to be creative and strategic with your methods. 

Below are some of the tips and tricks you need to know about for easier moving. At the end of the article, you will also learn how to set up and develop custom-sized boxes with materials you have at home. If you still feel under prepared for your move then there is no better time to get in the leading removalists in Perth, Adlam Transport.

Safety first 

The top priority when moving is to keep all your items secure and shielded. It would be best to purchase protective packaging for added care and to keep your things from moving around inside the box. These materials include foam padding or packaging foam, bubble wraps, and padded dividers. 

You can even utilize some items you already have in your home for extra paddings like old towels, blankets, and newspapers. 

Some irregularly shaped objects have a lot of edges and protruding parts; others are even pointy. Keep them from causing damage or injuries by covering them with additional padding. 

Cardboard boxes come in different levels of thickness. If you are planning to pack fragile pieces, opt for either double-wall corrugated or triple-wall corrugated boxes. 

Large odd-shaped items 

In general, you should always disassemble large objects for more convenient storage. The same with odd-shaped items, deconstruct them into smaller and more manageable pieces. 

Mirrors 

Breakable items like mirrors need extra protection and care. It won’t be such a hassle to move a typical rectangular-shaped mirror. The real problem arises when you have to move extravagant mirrors with lots of curves. 

For instances like this, make use of flat and padded cartons. Also, it would help if you cover the curves and edges of the mirror with cardboard or styrofoam. Finally, when placing them inside the box, make sure also to wrap them in bubble wrap to protect the glass from cracking. These methods will be the same when packing unusually shaped artworks. 

Hollow, circular, and round objects 

These objects include vases, ceramics, teapots, drum pieces, and soup tureens. For items with spaces inside, use cushioning materials to fill them in. Then, to prevent them from scratches and cracks, further wrap them with kraft paper. 

In addition to that, make sure you are using the correct box size to avoid unwanted bulging on the sides. 

For more oversized round items like bike tires and dartboards, it is recommended to pack them inside flat, shallow cardboard boxes. 

Cylindrical and long objects 

When moving items like pipes and rug roles, it’s better to wrap them in Kraft paper and tape. But there are boxes specifically for pieces like this, like the long single-wall cardboard boxes. If you do not have one, you can also use ropes or other ties to keep them in place. 

It is also essential to add support on each section for easily breakable or fragile long objects, specifically the top, middle, and end. You can tape styrofoam around the areas to avoid damage. 

Customized boxes 

All in all, it is crucial to have the right-sized boxes when moving oddly-shaped pieces. However, in the circumstance that you can’t find the perfect box size, you have the option to create custom-sized boxes at home. Here’s how: 

Flat boxes 

To move flat objects, you will be creating custom-sized boxes that are similar to pizza packages.

• Unfold the boxes 

First, unfold the box entirely until you are left with an outstretched piece of cardboard. Then, using a pen or a pencil, take note of the edges or curves of the item. During this process, there would be no need to consider every single angle. Instead, trace the areas that will guide you in folding the cardboard, meaning only four connecting dots. 

• Measure and mark 

Once you have done that, allot an extra space beside the square you have drawn and repeat the process. Remember, you should not measure your object on the immediate edge of the box. Moreover, always allow extra space around the squares. 

• Cut the edges 

You are now left with two square figures on the cardboard. The next step is to cut the edges of the markings. Remember not to cut in between the two boxes and to add some space for each side. 

• Fold 

Fold from the space between the two square drawings. Attempt to fit the object in the middle of the box and start bending the edges to enclose the box.

• Secure the box 

Finally, take duct tape or any strong adhesive to secure the box well. Add some newspapers, bubble wraps, or styrofoam if needed.

Square boxes

Another way to store your odd-shaped objects is through the use of square boxes. For this process, you will need to lay out each side of the box. Specifically, a total of six sides should be rendered. 

You will only need to determine the squares’ right size and trace the format onto your outstretched box. 

After this, cut and glue your cardboard box together. 

Rectangular boxes

Similar to the previous two methods, you 

first need to unfold the box. Next, measure your object and establish the proper measurements for the rectangles. Of course, you should never forget to add some extra space for safety padding or foam. 

Below is the format you will be following and cutting into your cardboard box.

Finally, use any heavy-duty glue or tape to secure all of the edges in place.