Moving antique furniture requires a thoughtful approach to ensure every piece arrives at its new destination safely. These items are often fragile and irreplaceable, so it’s crucial to take extra precautions during the packing and moving process. A professional removals service with the right expertise and equipment is your best bet for transporting precious items securely. Let’s explore the best practices required.
1, A tailored approach for every item
Antique furniture comes in all shapes and sizes, with varying levels of fragility. Whether you’re moving a glass chandelier, a grand piano or a valuable painting, each item requires a unique approach.
For instance, a chandelier needs to be carefully hung and supported during transport, while a large statue may require custom crating to handle its weight and dimensions. Expert packing and moving professionals will have the experience to assess the needs of each item and select the right equipment to move it safely.
2, Using specialised equipment
For particularly heavy or unusually shaped items like statues or large mirrors, professionals use custom-made wooden crates and lifting equipment. Crating ensures that these heavy objects are properly supported and padded, helping prevent damage during transit.
Similarly, fragile items like chandeliers are supported within the vehicle using specialist suspension systems.
3, Offering insurance and peace of mind
One of the greatest concerns when moving antique furniture is the potential for damage or loss. A trusted company should provide full removals insurance coverage for each item from the moment it’s packed to the point of delivery. This gives you peace of mind that your treasured possessions are protected.
Reputable companies should also provide all the relevant documentation upfront, ensuring transparency and trust.
4, Using specialist packing techniques
Packing is perhaps the most critical part of moving antique furniture. Without proper protection, irreversible damage can occur. So look for removal companies that offer specialist packing services for delicate and high-value items. The best will use packing techniques that include the following:
Pad wrapping
This involves covering the item in padded blankets to prevent scratches, scuffs and impact damage. Pad-wrapped items are discreetly packed to avoid exposure to prying eyes, adding an extra layer of privacy and security.
Export wrapping
For items stored over a longer period or moved internationally, export wrapping uses cloth and bubble wrap to create an airtight seal, protecting your furniture from moisture, dampness and mould.
Crating
Heavier, irregularly shaped or highly fragile items often benefit from crating. Packing your antique furniture into custom-built crates, filled with foam pallets for extra stability, helps ensure that even the most delicate items are fully supported and cushioned throughout the journey.
5, Minimising risk with modern transport
Using a removal company with a modern fleet of vehicles helps ensure that antique furniture arrives in perfect condition. These vehicles come equipped with advanced suspension systems that minimise vibration and jolts, which could otherwise lead to cracks or damage to fragile items.
6, Ensuring supervision and expertise
A successful move relies on meticulous planning. During the move, a dedicated removals expert should supervise every step of the process, ensuring your antique furniture is packed, handled and transported with the utmost care. This supervision ensures tha specialist equipment is used correctly, and your items are protected throughout.
For a removals company you can trust to keep your items safe, contact Spire Removals today.
