How to Move Antique Furniture

January 9, 2024 by Marjorie R. Rogers, MA (English), Certified Consultant

Moving large items can be a hassle, but it can become even more stressful when antiques are involved. If you are looking to ship antique furniture, there are some important things to do to ensure the safe delivery of the item when using shipping services. With this guide, you can be sure you are preparing the item for shipping and safeguarding it so it maintains value.

Preparing Antiques

Before taking any steps to ship antique furniture, there are important things to think about. One is to assess the condition of the item and be sure to identify any areas that may be vulnerable. Here are some key steps to take to ensure antique furniture is properly prepared for shipping:

• Check the Condition: Before using any shipping service, take time to completely assess the furniture. Inspect it for damage, loose parts, or any weak joints. Be sure to document these things using photographs when possible. The shipping services should be made aware of the overall condition of items.
• Secure any Loose Components: If the assessment reveals loose pieces, especially knobs or handles, secure them. This can be done with adhesives or by simply removing them and packing them in a separate box.
• Disassemble: Some pieces of antique furniture are quite large. If it can be disassembled into smaller pieces, this will ensure safe delivery of the item. Smaller items are easier to pack, and the chances of damage during transportation will be limited.

Selecting Packing Materials

Shipping services can transport items packed using different materials. However, it is not the company’s responsibility to choose the materials used for packing. To ensure antique furniture is protected, these guidelines can help.

1. Boxes and Crates: When using any moving box, be sure it is double-walled and sturdy. Custom wooden crates can replace boxes, but they should be the appropriate size. Both boxes and crates need to allow for any additional packing materials.
2. Cushioning/Padding: Use padding materials like bubble wrap to wrap all components of the furniture. Foam sheets or furniture blankets can also be used to add protection against impact.
3. Internal Support: Stability is key during shipment. If the piece is large, use foam blocks inside the box to secure the item. This will prevent shifting as the furniture is being transported.
4. Protection for Corners or Edges: Corner protectors can be purchased and should be applied to all exposed corners or edges.

Choosing Shipping Services

Now that antique items are ready for shipment, it is time to find the best shipping services for the job. Each service will have different reviews, prices, and special services. Always take extra time to perform some research on companies. Find one that specializes in antique furniture shipments to ensure the best service.

Top-rated shipping services will also provide insurance options. These can protect the item against damage or loss that may occur during transport. It will also be important to have up-to-date information on the shipment status. Choose a company that offers tracking services so progress can always be monitored. This not only informs you of where the item is but also provides expected delivery times.