Moving internationally can be a daunting process. Beyond the logistics of packing up your life and transitioning to a new location, safeguarding your precious furniture presents its own set of challenges. Whether it’s a family heirloom or a newly acquired statement piece, furniture often holds both financial and sentimental value.
This guide takes you through the essential steps to protect your furniture during an international move, ensuring everything arrives at your new home in the same condition it left. From inventory creation to choosing professional movers, we’ve got you covered.
Step 1: Create a furniture inventory
The first step to protecting your furniture is getting organised. Creating a comprehensive inventory will help you stay on top of your move’s logistics while providing important records.
- List everything you plan to move
Write down each piece of furniture you’ll be taking to your new home. - Take photographs
Document each item from multiple angles. These photographs serve as visual proof of their pre-move condition and will be invaluable for potential transit protection claims. - Note dimensions and conditions
Measure larger pieces to confirm they can pass through doorways or be accommodated in your new space. Record any existing wear or damage to identify new issues later.
Step 2: Declutter before you pack
Moving is the perfect opportunity to pare things back. Reducing the number of items you’re shipping saves costs and ensures your new home isn’t cluttered from day one.
- Sort and donate unused items
Identify furniture you no longer need. Donate to charities or sell unwanted pieces before the move. - Cost efficiency matters
Every cubic metre counts when shipping internationally. The fewer items you transport, the less it costs. - How to donate in Australia
In 2024, Australians donated over 300,000 pieces of furniture to charities. Organisations like the Salvation Army, Vinnies, and GIVIT accept furniture in good condition. Many offer pick-up services or easy drop-off locations.
Step 3: Disassemble when necessary
Bulky, heavy furniture is not only difficult to move but also prone to damage during transit. When possible, dismantle items to simplify transportation and reduce risk.
- Why disassembling helps
Larger pieces are easier to manoeuvre and less likely to sustain damage in smaller parts. - Keep small parts secure
Place screws, bolts, and other small hardware in sealable bags. Label the bags so they don’t get mixed up. - Photograph before disassembly
Take pictures of complex pieces before dismantling them. These will help you reassemble them effortlessly.
Step 4: Use the right packing materials
Quality is key when it comes to protecting your furniture. Substandard packing materials may do more harm than good, so invest in professional-grade supplies.
- Recommended materials
Use furniture blankets, bubble wrap, foam padding, edge protectors, and shrink wrap to safeguard your items properly. - Avoid old or thin supplies
Worn-out materials compromise protection. Don’t risk damage to save a small expense. - Need resources?
Crown Relocations offers premium packing materials if you’re handling your own move.
Step 5: Wrap and secure each item carefully
Now it’s time to roll up your sleeves and protect each piece of furniture. Use these wrapping and securing techniques to minimise damage risk during handling and transport.
- Sofas and chairs
Wrap upholstered pieces in furniture blankets, followed by plastic shrink wrap to shield against dirt and moisture. - Tables and beds
Disassemble when possible. Protect tabletops with bubble wrap and place edge protectors around corners to prevent chips. - Fragile finishes and corners
Use foam padding and extra care for delicate surfaces like glass, lacquer, or polished wood. - Secure heavy items
Strap down larger pieces inside moving vehicles to ensure they don’t shift during transit.
Step 6: Choose professional movers with international experience
Selecting experienced movers can make a world of difference during an international relocation. Avoid unnecessary risks by engaging professionals who know how to handle overseas freight.
- The risks of using unqualified movers
Improper packing techniques, lack of specialised equipment, and inexperience with customs regulations make unprofessional movers a poor choice. - How Crown Relocations can help
Our trained teams use advanced packing systems and custom-built crates for sea or air transit, ensuring your items receive the highest care standards.
Step 7: Protect during transit and unpacking
Your furniture’s safety doesn’t end when it’s packed up. Knowing what to expect during transit and unpacking can help you avoid surprises.
- Transit challenges
Your shipment will pass through various handling stages, including customs inspections and container loading. Clear labelling and proper documentation streamline the process. - Tracking and reporting
With Crown Relocations, you’ll receive tracking updates and condition reports for transparency. - Unpacking services
When your furniture arrives, Crown’s team can unpack and dispose of used packing materials, saving you time and effort.
Step 8: Protect your belongings with transit protection
Even with best practices in place, international moves present unavoidable risks. Protecting your furniture with a comprehensive transit protection is essential.
- Transit coverage
Transit protection safeguards against losses or damage caused by unforeseen events during shipping. - Crown’s protection plans
We offer two coverage options—CrownCare and CrownCare Plus—tailored to suit different needs and budgets. These plans offer peace of mind for your most valued belongings.
Safeguard your valued furniture with confidence
International moves don’t have to be stressful. With the right planning, packing, and support, you can ensure your furniture and other treasured belongings arrive safely at your new destination.
Need advice for your upcoming move?
Book a free consultation with one of our relocation experts and discover how we can help you plan, prepare for and make your move.
