How to Pack and Move Collectibles

Protecting collectible items during a move

Collections of any size can be a bit overwhelming to move. You not only have to decide what pieces to take, but you also have to properly pack the things you’ve spent so much time and money collecting. The good news is that keeping your belongings in good condition is possible with a few steps. 

Keep reading to find out how to prepare your collectibles, and also learn what to do if you decide not to move them.

Different types of collectibles and how to pack them

In addition to our general packing guidelines, follow these tips when packing and moving collectibles: 

• Use acid-free packing paper instead of newspaper to keep print from transferring
• Use high-quality boxes so they don’t crush when stacked
• Use plenty of packing materials to safeguard items against any damage

Then use the steps below to learn how to pack different types of collector’s items.

Coins and other currency

It may be best to keep high-value with you during transit or hire an armored transport, like Brinks or Loomis. If you decide to move the collection, check with your homeowner’s insurance company to determine whether it’s covered during transit (and consider adding a policy if not).
To pack currency, wrap items in packing paper and place in boxes. Fill any extra spaces in the boxes with crumpled packing paper, so nothing moves during transit. For heavy items like coins, watch the box weight. Keep boxes under 40 lbs. to make them easier to manage.

Dolls, figurines, ceramics or glass

Fragile items require a few extra precautions:

• Wrap each box or item individually in packing paper (or wrap unboxed figurines in Bubble Wrap^®). Take care not to apply any tape to the collectibles, as it could damage the finish or paint.
• Wrap boxes in Bubble Wrap, paying special attention to the corners and edges.
• Prepare a large box by placing a layer of crushed packing paper at the bottom to pad the box.
• Place the wrapped boxes or items in the moving box, keeping them upright. Watch the weight of the box (we recommend 40 lbs. max) to ensure ease of lifting.
• Use crumpled packing paper to fill any gaps inside the box. Make sure there’s no wiggle room.
• Place a layer of crushed packing paper on top. This helps protect items when you cut open the moving box at destination.
• Mark the box “Fragile,” and avoid stacking heavy items on top when loading.

Baseball cards, stamps and documents

These types of items are typically in a frame or album, which should be wrapped in packing paper and placed in a moving box that’s been padded with crumpled packing paper. If items are loose, place them in an album with acid-free pages to protect them. Fill any extra space in the box with additional paper, and place more paper on top to ensure nothing shifts during transit.
For framed items, use a picture or mirror box, or wrap it well in Bubble Wrap. Loose posters can be placed in poster tubes, then packed into boxes.

Antiques

Because of the fragile, expensive and one-of-a-kind nature of antiques, U-Pack recommends keeping these items with you during a move. Antiques are listed on our Do Not Ship list, so talk with a moving consultant if you have several pieces to move. They can help you figure out a plan for those items.

What to do if you don’t want to move your collection

If moving the collection isn’t an option or you’re ready to pass it along to someone else, there are a few things you can do:

• Donate it. Donations are tax deductible, which can make this a good choice. Consider giving your items to a charitable group that could use or sell the items or donating them to a museum where the items can be displayed. 
• Sell the items. Typically, selling items individually will yield better results, but you could also list similar items together and hope another collector wants everything.
• Take it to a trade show. Setting up at a trade show will attract buyers interested in your particular type of items. You might find others who are interested in individual pieces or other sellers who want the entire collection.

Have questions about moving collectibles?

Leave a comment below or call us at 800-413-4799. We will be happy to help you figure out how to pack your collection for moving.