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Five Items Most Likely to Break During a Move

August 27, 2018


home with artwork A top source of stress during a move is the worry over whether your household items are safe and sound – and with good reason. Movers know there are certain items that are far more likely than others to be damaged during transport. Here are the five most commonly broken items we see, particularly during DIY moves:

  1. Electronics: Because of their numerous delicate components, electronics such as computers and television sets are easily damaged. Even if the damage isn't outwardly visible, one bump too many can displace functional components, causing these items to fail when you press the on button.
  2. Tables: Tables and table legs are among the most commonly damaged items, primarily because they're simply awkward to move. A top tip is to remove the legs, pack and move them separately. Tables with tops made of heavier material, such as marble, are of particular concern because of the sheer force involved when they're dropped.
  3. China, mirrors and other glassware: The most common culprit is a lack of sufficient padding. The more fragile the material, the more you'll need. Let your pillows do double duty as padding for large mirrors. And don't forget your wine and liquor selections. Damage happens not only in the way of broken bottles and stains on items packed nearby, but also in spoiled beverages caused by intense temperature changes, particularly during long moves.
  4. Artwork: Pierced canvases, broken frames and smudged paint are all too common. At highest risk are ornate frames with detailed surfaces and canvases packed near items with sharp corners or edges. Also keep in mind that long periods of high temperatures can mar paint.
  5. Appliances: After all, they’re heavy, difficult to carry and, like smaller electronics, have lots of inner components that can affect functionality. Front-loading washers are most easily broken. That's because most fail to realize that spinning drums must be properly suspended throughout a move.

Also at risk are various features of the homes you're vacating and moving into. Inexperienced or clumsy movers can leave behind dented walls and door jambs, broken stairway rails, scuffed floors and torn carpet. And remember – you're at risk, too. Improperly handled moves have sent many a victim to the hospital or emergency room with broken bones, pulled muscles, skin lacerations and aching backs. Why risk breaking your most used or cherished items? Trust your move, your health and your sanity to professionals. If you plan a move to or from the Washington, DC metropolitan area, call 800-530-2626 and schedule an appointment with McKendree Moving & Storage

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