How to Pack Mirrors for Moving
Mirrors are beautiful, but fragile. For anyone planning a long-distance move, here is a step-by-step guide on how to pack mirrors for moving and the precautions you'll need to take to ensure they arrive safely at your new home.
Gather Your Packing Materials
Most of the items you’ll need to pack your mirror can be purchased from your local hardware store. Your moving company is a reliable source as well. Even if you decide not to engage their packing services, they’ll still be able to provide everything you require at a reasonable price. For those who prefer the DIY approach, here’s what you’ll need:
- Bubble Wrap
- Packing Paper or Moving Blankets
- Painter’s Tape or Masking Tape
- Packing Tape
- Mirror Box
- Cardboard Sheets
- Foam Corner Protectors
- Felt-Tip Marker
Avoid packing peanuts. Though they provide a strong cushion in most cases, they aren’t well-suited for mirrors because they shift easily during transit, creating uneven pressure inside the box. They may even allow the mirror to slide around, increasing the risk of damage.
Prepare Your Mirror
It’s easiest to pack a mirror by laying it out on a flat, elevated surface, like a bed or kitchen table. If you have a large mirror, you might need to clear space on the floor instead. Place the mirror face-up and clean it thoroughly. Dusty mirrors are prone to scratching. Then tape an X across the front using either painter’s tape or masking tape. This reduces the risk of breakage. It also prevents the glass from shattering if an accident occurs.
Add Corner Protectors
Similar to a picture frame, the corners are the most exposed and vulnerable parts of a mirror. The sharp angles mean that stress is likely to accumulate here, leading to chipping or breaking. To prevent damage, cover them with foam or cardboard protection.
Reinforce the Framework
Cut two pieces of cardboard the same size as the mirror and tape them to the front and back, to help absorb minor shocks and impacts. The cardboard provides structural support as well, so the mirror won’t warp under stress. It also creates a barrier against objects that could mar the reflective surface.
Wrap the Mirror
Multiple layers are the key to protection. The best way is to start with a soft layer. Use packing paper or a moving blanket. Then cover it in 2-3 layers of bubble wrap. Make sure every inch is covered, with the bubble wrap snug against the surface and secured with packing tape. Make sure it’s sealed tight, so the mirror doesn’t slide out accidently.
Box It Up
Regular moving boxes aren’t well suited to fragile items such as mirrors. A mirror box consists of two interlocking pieces or adjustable panels, allowing you to extend or reduce its size. Made from double- or triple-walled corrugated cardboard, they provide strong defense against impact, especially around the corners.
When adjusting the box, you’ll want to leave room for padding, so it should be around thirty percent larger than the mirror it contains. Before sliding the mirror in, use crumpled packing paper to create a cushion on the bottom of the box. Then place the wrapped mirror inside and fill any empty space with additional paper. Towels work as well, so long as the mirror can’t move during transit.
Finally, seal and label the box “FRAGILE” in large letters on both sides. Because mirrors should always be transported vertically, in order to ensure their weight is distributed along the edges, write “THIS END UP” along the top side.
When loading your mirror, make sure nothing is placed on top of it. Even a relatively small weight can cause it to warp or crack. Place it against a flat, solid surface, such as the walls or sides of the moving truck. Use other furniture, such as bookcases or mattresses, for stability. You want something sturdy, but light. Positioning it tightly between heavy objects can create pressure that might cause it to break. If you’re worried the surrounding items might be too large, use moving blankets for extra protection.
Hassle-Free Moving Services
At Allied, our professional movers are familiar with the best packing techniques for all your household items. We work with you to create a personalized plan, taking into account your needs, budget, and schedule - down to the smallest detail. Let Allied take the stress out of your move. Contact us today for a free quote!