Four ways to reduce damage during a move

Check packaging, equipment, handling and access before the load moves. Start with the actual item and conditions, and ask us for an assessment when the preparation or handling method is uncertain.

1. Match the packaging to the contents

Walk through the inventory and identify fragile finishes, glass, moving parts, existing damage and unusually heavy pieces. Tell us about those features when requesting a quote so the plan includes them before the crew and vehicle are assigned. Keep useful condition photographs and manufacturer instructions with the inventory.

Inspect cartons for damage and choose a size and strength suited to the contents. A sound outer box and internal protection perform different jobs: wrap and support items so they cannot make unprotected contact, and fill gaps with compatible material without putting pressure on delicate parts. The box should close normally. Repack a bulging or damaged carton rather than adding tape to hide the problem.

Paper, bubble wrap, blankets and fitted inserts have different uses. Check compatibility with painted, polished and delicate surfaces. Label contents, destination room and handling needs, but remember that a fragile label cannot replace support inside the box. Use our packing materials and fragile-item guidance to plan the next step.

2. Use equipment suited to the job

A trolley, lifting device or restraint must suit the item's weight, shape and route. Tell us about pianos, awkward furniture and heavy equipment before collection. Do not use unfamiliar equipment without suitable instruction and assessment, or choose a crew size from a generic furniture description.

If you are considering a hired vehicle, check its requirements, load limits and your ability to operate it safely. Available floor space alone does not establish that the load is suitable. For a piano, use our piano moving guide and arrange assessment of the instrument and both properties.

3. Agree the handling and loading plan

Protection, support and restraint must work together so furniture does not shift, rub against the vehicle or press on another item. Let the moving team organise the load and agree who will dismantle or prepare particular pieces. Keep fittings identified and disclose loose or damaged components.

If the item or access differs from the agreed description, pause the affected task and ask for reassessment. Do not force furniture through an opening or add unplanned helpers during a lift. Our heavy furniture guidance helps you prepare the information needed for that assessment.

4. Check the full route at both properties

Follow the path from each item's current position to the vehicle and from the vehicle into its new room. Include stairs, corners, doorways, lift access, parking and the surfaces equipment will cross. Remove routine loose obstacles such as hoses, toys and shoes where safe. Report fixed restrictions such as low lights or overhanging branches; obtain appropriate help and permission for work beyond ordinary clearing.

Arrange suitable supervision for children and pets away from the handling route. Confirm keys, lift bookings and building access with the responsible person. Recheck these arrangements if circumstances change between the quote and moving day.

Check delivery and report concerns

Make the destination of larger pieces clear before placement. Check visible condition and box identifiers against the inventory. Tell us promptly about damage, missing items or a handling concern, and keep photographs and booking details together.

Check the reporting process and insurance arrangements before the move. Retain damaged packaging until you know what is needed for follow-up. Preparation can reduce avoidable problems, but the applicable terms and circumstances determine how a particular concern is handled.

Request a quote with the inventory and access details, or call us on 1800 500 584.

Will extra tape make a damaged box safe?

Extra tape can reinforce an appropriate closure, but it cannot establish that a damaged carton is suitable. Check the base, sides, corners and lid, then follow the supplier’s loading and closure guidance. If the carton sags, bulges, has damaged structure or cannot close normally, repack into a suitable box and reduce the load if needed. Protect and separate the contents as well. A strong-looking exterior does not correct unsupported fragile items or pressure from heavier goods inside.

What should happen if the access is different on moving day?

Tell the moving team immediately and have the affected task reassessed before handling continues. Explain the change, such as a blocked driveway, unavailable lift, narrower entrance or different destination room. The original equipment, crew arrangement or quoted time may no longer suit the route. Keep people away from the handling area while the team considers the next step, and confirm any revised scope or cost. Do not force furniture through or improvise an unplanned carry to preserve the original timetable.

Does a fragile label replace protective packing?

No. A label communicates the need for care, while the packing must provide suitable wrapping, support, separation and a carton appropriate to the load. Identify delicate rims, handles, surfaces and protruding parts before choosing protection. Prevent heavy contents from bearing on those areas and point out special-care items to the crew. For unusually valuable or awkward pieces, arrange an assessment before collection. Labels, packing and the loading plan work together; none is a promise that damage is impossible.

Which four areas should I check to reduce avoidable damage?

Review packaging, equipment, handling and access together. Suitable wrapping does not make unsuitable equipment safe, and a clear doorway does not resolve an unassessed heavy item. Give the mover accurate dimensions, known weights and condition details, and describe both property routes. Agree who prepares and handles difficult pieces before collection. Keep pathways clear and report changes early so the team can use a coordinated plan suited to the actual load and properties.

What should I do if I notice damage or a handling concern?

Tell the responsible moving contact promptly, identify the item and keep the relevant booking, inventory and condition records. Follow the agreed reporting process and ask what information is needed next. If the concern affects handling in progress, alert the crew so it can pause and reassess appropriately. Avoid attempting an improvised repair or movement that could complicate the situation. The outcome depends on the circumstances and applicable terms, so keep a clear record rather than assuming an automatic remedy.