5 Things Most People Break During a Move — and How to Prevent It (2025 Guide)
Moving can be stressful — and expensive — if your belongings don’t arrive safely. At Palmers Relocations, with over 45 years of experience and memberships in AFRA, FIDI, FAIM, Euromovers, IAM, ISO, and BAR, we’ve helped thousands of Australians move locally, interstate and internationally. Based on our warranty claims and years on the job, these are the five most commonly damaged items during a move — and exactly how to prevent it.
Furniture — The #1 Moving Casualty
Bulky furniture is often the hardest to move safely. Narrow staircases, obstructed hallways, or stacking errors can cause scratches, dents, and chips — not just on the furniture, but on your walls and doors.
Common damage includes:
-
Scratched wooden surfaces
-
Dented frames or corners
-
Scuffed paint on walls and doors
Pro Tips from Palmers:
-
Wrap furniture in thick moving blankets and secure with tape.
-
Keep drawers and doors removed or secured to prevent swinging or falling.
-
Keep items in cupboards where possible — this prevents shifting and saves space.
-
Use professional lifting straps or trolleys to avoid injury.
Palmers Tip: Our trained removalists load trucks carefully and navigate tight stairs and lifts, reducing damage risk — and protecting your back. Learn more about our local moving services for safe furniture transport.
Artwork & Mirrors — Fragile and Irreplaceable
Art and framed mirrors are not just valuable — they’re often sentimental. Improper packing can puncture canvases, crack glass, or warp frames.
Pro Tips from Palmers:
-
Wrap items in acid-free paper, then bubble wrap.
-
Always transport upright in a dedicated spot — never stacked under furniture or heavy boxes.
-
Use 2-ply cartons or specialised art cartons for extra protection.
Palmers Tip: Many customers are surprised when a treasured vase or painting gets damaged, even if they packed it “safely” with cushions. Our team handles artwork as a separate load, so it stays secure. We use specialised art cartons and handle artwork as a separate load to keep it safe.
Crockery & Kitchenware — The Hidden Risk
Plates, bowls, and glassware are deceptively fragile. Many people pack plates flat in boxes, or wrap with linen or cushions — this can actually increase the risk of breakage. We’ve seen it happen — a priceless vase packed ‘safely’ with cushions… and it still didn’t make it. Here’s how to avoid the same mistake.
Pro Tips from Palmers:
-
Bundle plates in groups of at least four, on edge, with paper between each plate.
-
Use sturdy, 2-ply cartons — supermarket boxes crush easily.
-
Don’t overpack or use tight wrapping; allow some flexibility for transit movement.
Palmers Tip: Following this method reduces breakages dramatically. We also ensure boxes aren’t stacked under heavy loads.
Plants — Keep Living Cargo Safe
Plants are living cargo and require special attention. Sudden temperature changes, lack of airflow, or excess water in the soil can damage or kill them.
Pro Tips from Palmers:
-
Avoid watering 48 hours before moving.
-
Ensure pots are dry for at least a week before interstate moves to prevent water seeping onto furniture.
-
Use ventilated boxes and secure branches with soft ties.
💡 Palmers Tip: Our trucks keep plants upright and protected. Interstate moves may require quarantine documentation, which we handle for you. Learn about interstate moving services for plant-safe transport.
Yourself — Avoid the DIY Injury
Back strain, dropped boxes, and moving-day stress are common “damage” you don’t see on a warranty claim.
Pro Tips from Palmers:
-
Lift with your legs, not your back.
-
Don’t overdo it — don’t overestimate your strength — ask for help with bulky items.
-
Take breaks and stay hydrated.
Palmers Tip: Hiring our team means the heavy lifting is taken care of safely — so you avoid injury and enjoy a stress-free move.
Quick Checklist to Prevent Damage
✅ Wrap & pad furniture
✅ Pack artwork & mirrors separately
✅ Cushion crockery & kitchenware properly
✅ Prepare plants in advance
✅ Don’t overdo it — hire professionals for heavy or awkward items
Why Trust Palmers Relocations?
With over 45 years of experience, fully trained removalists, and memberships in AFRA, FIDI, FAIM, Euromovers, IAM, ISO, and BAR, Palmers Relocations ensures your move is:
✅ Safe and secure
✅ Fully trained
✅ Fully insured
✅ On-time and stress-free
Ready to Move Without the Stress?
Moving doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Palmers tailors services to your needs — full packing and transport, or just help with the heavy lifting. We’ll help you move with confidence, keeping your belongings — and your back — safe. Get My Free Quote | Call us on 1300 363 916