Packing Small Items
Even small items can be damaged when moving. If you are packing yourself instead of having your California moving company pack for you, then you should take extra care when packing as moving companies will not be held responsible for broken or damaged items they did not pack themselves.
Packing Small Things to Avoid Damage
When packing knickknacks, trophies, small picture frames, or ceramic decorative items, you should wrap each item in newspaper or plastic wrap. Layer the bottom of a small box and carefully lay the items in the box. After you have filled the box, add another protective layer.
When taping boxes, use strong packing tape as this will keep the box from falling apart. Your California movers may have tape that you can buy or you can find it at stores that sell moving supplies or office supplies. Make sure to buy enough so that you will not have to stop packing to buy more tape. You should label each box as ‘fragile’ and write the room it came from. This will help when you are unpacking.
Keep the boxes you packed with smaller items in another room when moving heavier boxes. Tell your movers that you want them to load these boxes last inside the moving van. This will also prevent damage. When unpacking the truck, place the boxes with smaller items in an empty room to get them out of the way and do not pile other boxes on top of them. Unpack these smaller items after you settle in and have set up your tables, book shelves, and other places to display your smaller items.
If Items Are Damaged
Being smart when packing will protect your items so that you will have them for a long time after the move. However, if you suspect an item is damaged that you packed yourself, open the box carefully so that you do not cut yourself on broken glass or sharp objects. If an item is damaged that you packed yourself but the outside of the carton is not damaged, you should remove and examine all other items and throw away the damaged items with the box if the can't be repaired and they are not separately insured items on a personal article floater attached to your homeowners' or renter's insurance policy. This will protect you and whoever else that may handle the box.