Blog December 2, 2022

How to Use Bubble Wrap When Packing for the Move?

Posted in How-to
Hannah Michaelson

Hannah is a freelance relocation writer from NYC that has become an expert on packing and unpacking.

No one enjoys relocations, but they are a necessary evil for many of us. Even though it can be stressful, there are ways to make it a bit easier. One way is using bubble wrap to protect your belongings during the move. So, how to use bubble wrap when packing for the move? Keep reading for our top tips on using this material effectively!

When preparing for an interstate move, you will need bubble wrap to pack fragile items, such as dishes, china, vases, or mirrors. In addition to that, electronics and irregularly-shaped objects should also be wrapped in this material. Place the object on the wrap so that bubbles face the object, and cover its entire surface. After that, tape the wrap, place the item in a box and don’t forget to label the box as fragile.

Why Should You Use Bubble Wrap When Preparing for a Long-Distance Moving Experience?

So you’re moving to another state. Maybe you’re going to school there, or you’re relocating for a job. Regardless of the reason, you’ve got a lot on your plate. Packing up all your belongings and transporting everything to your new home is no small feat. While you may be tempted to just throw everything in labeled boxes and call it a day, we strongly suggest taking the time to properly pack your belongings – especially if you want them to arrive in one piece.

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Bubble wrap is excellent for protecting fragile items when moving state to state. It’s essential for wrapping dishes and glasses so that they don’t break during the move. It can also be used to cushion other items like electronics and picture frames to prevent them from being damaged in transit. Not only will this plastic material keep your belongings safer, but it will also prevent them from moving around inside the box, which could cause damage.

Compared to other supplies like cardboard boxes and tape, bubble wrap is relatively inexpensive. Since it can be reused, you’ll save even more money in the long run. If you’re wondering where to get this material – you can find this wrap at most stores that sell packing supplies. You can also order it online, so there’s no need to go out of your way to find it.

Bubble wrap, tape, and paper for moving state to state
This is an extremely versatile material and provides many benefits during wrapping

When to Use Bubble Wrap?

One of the relocation tips people often forget about is this – knowing when to use this material and how to use it properly can make all the difference in whether or not your items arrive at your new home safely. Here are some everyday household items that you could wrap in this relocation supply:

  • Dishes,
  • China and stemware,
  • Mirrors,
  • Frames,
  • LCD TVs,
  • Computer monitors,
  • Decorative things,
  • Lamp bases,
  • Vases,
  • Tables made of glass,
  • Sharp corners or edges.

You might also need to utilize packing paper, depending on the item. For instance, if bubbles come into contact with glass surfaces, they may leave stains on them as well as computer and TV screens. Certain items need to be first wrapped in paper, then in bubble wrap. A hollow object, such as a vase, should also be filled with crumpled paper for added support before being wrapped.

Before Packing, Be Sure to Pick the Right Type of This Material

On the market, you can find different types of this material depending on the size of the bubbles, and they usually range in size from 1/4″ to 1″. The most typical dimension is 0.4″. Larger bubbles typically shield objects from impact, while smaller bubbles shield objects from scratches. Here’s a common relocation hack we like to share – lean toward the side of buying the one with bigger bubbles because it can also guard against scratches, given the circumstances of a move.

Additionally, there are various varieties of bubble wrap. Besides the regular one, an anti-static version and a heavy-duty weight with bigger, stronger bubbles are also available. The anti-static variant in pink does precisely what its name implies – it shields electronic devices from static electricity, which may seriously harm them. Regular one might cause a static charge to build up and damage your computer.

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How to Know Which Side of Bubble Wrap to Use?

When using this excellent material, be sure that the bubbles are touching the object you are wrapping and facing inward. This not only provides greater padding but also lessens the possibility of the bubbles bursting during the transfer. In addition, the bubble-textured side of the wrapper holds the object and secures it. Additionally, the wrap can be taped more easily and is more convenient to write on when the flat side is exposed.

A roll of bubble wrap
This material comes in different forms and can be used for a variety of items

How to Use Bubble Wrap for Moving – Wrapping Time

The time has come for us to finally explain how to wrap a picture frame, china, or decorative items – let’s see how you can get the best out of the relocation essential that this material surely is. When wrapping these items, be sure to place them in the middle of a sheet and then fold the edges of the bubble wrap around the item so that it’s completely cocooned. You may need to use multiple sheets for larger items or for items that are particularly fragile.

Once the item is wrapped, the next step is using tape to hold it in place at the ends and along the side. Then, simply put it in a box. The bottom of the box should contain heavier objects, and the top should contain lighter, more fragile stuff. Also, be sure not to over-crowd your boxes, as this can make them more difficult to carry and could cause damage to your belongings. Before sealing each box, you might wish to add more paper to act as padding between the bubble-wrapped things within. Declare the box to be “Fragile” on the label.

Once you pack your boxes, be sure to label them as fragile

Protecting Oddly-Shaped Items

It is difficult to ship objects of irregular shapes. Simply rolling the products you’re sending up in a single sheet of bubbles might not suffice if they are of uneven sizes. Instead, target the sections of the item that could be vulnerable with distinct layers of wrap. This will ensure better protection for the delicate item you’re trying to ship.

Start by padding the item’s weakest point. This could be a glass stem, an instrument neck, or a piece of glass, depending on the item. Make sure it receives an additional layer of protection, no matter what part it is. After that, cover the entire thing in bubble wrap. This type of sectional wrapping protects the weakest areas of your item’s irregular shape from damage.

What to Do With Bubbles After the Relocation?

You don’t have to throw away the bubbles after a move because the material is so strong. Save it instead for the next time you move or when you have to ship a box so you can pack it. You might recycle it or give it to someone else who is moving. Most recycling businesses will take this material, so that’s another option if you want to get rid of it.

A person wrapping stemware in bubble wrap
Irregularly shaped items, such as stemware, can be a bit tricky to wrap

If You’re Not Looking Forward to Packing, Hire State-to-State Movers and Packers to Do It for You

From packing up all your belongings to figuring out how to get them to your new home, there’s a lot to think about – sadly, an entirely stress-free move often isn’t possible. One important decision you’ll have to make is whether or not to hire packers and pay a bit more for your moving service to also include professional packing assistance. Here’s a look at some of the reasons why hiring packers is a good idea when you’re relocating to a new state.

They'll do it right

When you’re relocating to another state, it’s important that your belongings are packed correctly. That means using the right packing materials and using them in a way that will prevent damage during transit. Professional packers have the experience and expertise to do this right. They’ll also be able to pack your things quickly and efficiently, which can save you a lot of time and hassle.

They offer protection

Another benefit of hiring professional packers is that they can provide protection for your belongings while they’re in transit. This is especially important if you’re using a professional relocation company to transport your things. Most companies will require that you use their packing services to be eligible for coverage in case of damage or loss during the move.

They have the right materials

Preparing for a long-distance move takes more than just boxes, packing paper, and tape. Professional packers will have all the supplies they need to safely pack your things for transport on a relocation truck.

They will save you a lot of time

Packing is time-consuming and tedious. The last thing you want to do when you’re getting ready for a move is to spend days placing everything into numerous boxes. Hiring movers and packers to handle the relocation for you means that you can focus on more important things, like throwing a going-away party to say goodbye to your old neighborhood.

They will know how to handle delicate or irregular items

Packers are experienced and know how to properly pack fragile items. Wrapping up your entire home is not something that most people do on a regular basis. Packers, on the other hand, are professionals! This means that they have the experience and expertise to properly pack even your most delicate items so that they arrive at your new home safe and sound.

They will actually save you money in the long run

You’ll save money by hiring packers. Many people think that this is an unnecessary expense. However, the reality is that hiring packers can save you money in the long run by ensuring that your belongings arrive at your new home in one piece. This means that you won’t have to replace any damaged or broken items, which can be pretty costly.

They will lower your relocation stress

Hiring packers will give you peace of mind and reduce the stress and anxiety about relocating. The bottom line is that hiring professional packers will give you peace of mind throughout the entire relocation process. You’ll know that your belongings are in good hands and will be taken care of from start to finish, making the transition to your new city much smoother and less stressful overall.

Interstate Moving Can Often Seem Intimidating, But With the Right Movers, It’s More Than Manageable

Packing your entire household inventory and moving interstate can seem like an impossible task at first, but with the right tips and advice, it is more than possible to pull off a successful move. Additionally, by hiring professional movers, you can take some of the stress out of relocating and ensure that your belongings are handled with care. We hope these tips have helped you get started on your preparations for your upcoming move. Good luck!

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