Packing for a move comes with its challenges, and when it comes to Christmas ornaments, the stakes can feel even higher. These decorations are fragile and often hold sentimental value, coming out only once a year to bring festive cheer.
In the UK, the average Christmas tree is adorned with around 39 ornaments, many of which are delicate or heirloom pieces. Families also spend over three hours putting up Christmas decorations around the home, a reminder of how much effort goes into each festive display.
During a move, losing or damaging even a single cherished ornament can feel like undoing all that hard work, which is why careful packing is essential. Whether it’s glass baubles or festive plates, packing these items correctly ensures they survive the move and are ready to decorate your home next season.
In our ‘How to Pack Christmas Ornaments for Moving’ guide, we’ll share our tips to protect your festive decorations, so they arrive at your new home safe and secure.
Gather Your Packing Materials
Before you start packing, it’s important to have all of the right materials on hand. Proper supplies will protect your ornaments and make packing go smoothly.
Here’s what you’ll need and why:
- Scrunched-up paper or newspaper: Provides cushioning to absorb bumps and prevent items from shifting during the move.
- Packing paper and bubble wrap: Essential for protecting delicate or valuable decorations from scratches, chips, and breakage.
- Sturdy boxes: Strong boxes prevent crushing and keep decorations safe. Smaller boxes are easier to handle and ideal for fragile items, while larger boxes can be used for more robust decorations.
- Labels and markers: Help identify fragile ornaments so everyone handling them knows to treat them with care.
Have the right supplies ready: paper, bubble wrap, sturdy boxes, and labels to protect your ornaments.
Step-by-Step Guide to Packing Your Ornaments
Once you have your supplies, packing your Christmas ornaments can be a straightforward process if you take proper care.
1. Wrap Each Ornament Individually
- Remove any metal hooks or ribbon hangers before packing. Store these in a labelled envelope or small container so nothing gets tangled, bent, or lost.
- Protect every decoration by wrapping it in packing paper or tissue.
- For fragile or valuable pieces, add a layer of bubble wrap around the paper for extra cushioning.
- Check that all sides are covered, including hooks or any protruding details on figurines.
2. Separate and Organise
- Once wrapped, group ornaments by type, size, or fragility. Pieces like glass baubles, china figurines, or other delicate parts, should go in separate boxes.
- Avoid mixing heavy items with fragile ones to minimise the risk of damage.
Group wrapped ornaments by type and fragility, keeping fragile items separate from heavier decorations.
3. Place Items Carefully in the Box
- Line the bottom of your box with scrunched-up paper or newspaper for cushioning.
- Arrange the wrapped items in a single layer, keeping heavier items away from fragile ones.
- Plates or flat decorations should be placed upright instead of lying flat.
- Fill any remaining gaps with scrunched-up paper, newspaper, or bubble wrap to prevent movement during transit.
4. Label the Box Clearly
- Label the box ‘Christmas Ornaments – Fragile’, so anyone handling it knows to take care.
- For especially delicate items, consider adding ‘This Side Up ‘ or other notes to indicate special handling.
Tips for Keeping Ornaments Safe During the Move
Christmas ornaments are naturally sensitive, so a few extra precautions can make all the difference during your move.
Here are some additional tips to ensure your decorations arrive in perfect condition:
Double Wrap Pieces
If an ornament feels especially fragile or important, give it an extra layer of protection.
Wrap it in packing paper first, then add a layer of bubble wrap. This creates a cushioned barrier against bumps and knocks.
Use Smaller Boxes for Fragile Decorations
Placing delicate ornaments in smaller boxes makes them easier to handle, reducing the risk of items being crushed under heavier items.
Keep Weight Off Fragile Boxes
Avoid placing anything heavy on top of your ornament boxes, even once the boxes are sealed.
Weaker decorations can crack under pressure, so keep these boxes at the top of the load or in a dedicated ‘fragile items’ area.
Place fragile ornament boxes at the top of the load and avoid stacking heavy items on them to prevent damage.
Avoid Overcrowding
Even with good packing, too many ornaments packed into one box can lead to pressure cracks or movement during transit. Aim to leave a little space and fill any gaps with soft cushioning material.
Store Carefully
Once you’re in your new home, place ornament boxes somewhere dry and stable. Many families store them in the attic or in a designated cupboard until next Christmas.
Be mindful of temperature and humidity changes, as some materials don’t hold up well in fluctuating conditions. Plastic can warp or become brittle in cold weather, while wooden decorations may crack if exposed to damp or humidity.
To keep your Christmas decorations in good condition:
- Wrap sensitive pieces in acid-free tissue paper to prevent yellowing or deterioration.
- Avoid keeping ornament boxes directly on concrete floors, as these surfaces can draw moisture. Place them on shelving or raised surfaces instead.
How We Can Help
To sum up, if you’re wondering how to pack Christmas ornaments for moving, you’ll need to gather your supplies, wrap each decoration carefully, and place them in well-cushioned, clearly labelled boxes.
When it comes to transporting fragile or sentimental decorations for a move, Falconer Removals offers expert removal services you can rely on. Our team handles every item with care, so your treasured figurines and festive decorations arrive at your new home intact.
If you’d like advice on moving items, or want to learn more about our specialist removals and storage solutions, email us at info@falconerremovals.co.uk.
