Moving can be a daunting task, especially when you have to move delicate items like wooden antiques. These valuable items require special care and attention during the move to ensure they are not damaged or broken — and you've undoubtedly heard horror stories from friends and family about cherished heirlooms being damaged while in transition to their new homes. Fortunately, strategies exist for minimizing the potential for damage during the moving process. The following are six of them. 

Prepare the Antiques

Before moving your wooden antiques, it's important to prepare them properly. Start by cleaning the surface of the items with a soft cloth or brush to remove any dust or dirt. If your antique is made of untreated wood, you may want to apply a coat of wax or oil to protect it from scratches and moisture during the move.

Use Protective Packaging

Once your wooden antiques are cleaned and treated, it's time to pack them for the move. Use protective packaging such as bubble wrap or foam padding to wrap each piece carefully. Make sure to cover all corners and edges of the items to prevent scratches and damage during the move. You can also use blankets or towels to provide additional protection.

Use a Professional Moving Company

Consider hiring a professional moving company that specializes in moving delicate items such as antiques. These companies have the experience, knowledge, and equipment needed to move your antiques safely and efficiently. They can also provide you with additional packaging materials and advice on how to properly prepare your items for the move.

Label the Boxes

When packing your wooden antiques, make sure to label each box clearly. This will help you keep track of your items during the move and ensure they are placed in the right location in your new house. You can also label boxes with fragile items to alert movers to handle them with care.

Avoid Direct Sunlight

Direct sunlight can damage wooden antiques by causing the wood to fade or warp. During the move, make sure to keep your items away from direct sunlight and store them in a cool, dry place.

Unpack Carefully

Once you arrive at your new house, unpack your wooden antiques carefully. Remove the protective packaging slowly and make sure not to scratch or damage the items in the process. Place each piece in its designated location and avoid placing heavy items on top of your antiques.

Ask a moving company for more information on protecting your valuables during your upcoming relocation.