Moving a China Cabinet can be quite the task, given its size, weight, and fragility. However, with proper preparation and the right equipment, you can safely and efficiently move your cabinet without any damage. At TWO MEN AND A TRUCK®, we are the experts in handling delicate and heavy items. If you'd prefer a stress-free move, we recommend contacting your local TWO MEN AND A TRUCK franchise for professional help. But if you're a do-it-yourselfer, then keep reading! This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
What You Need
- Screwdriver
You will need to disassemble the China cabinet to make it lighter and easier to maneuver, especially through doorways and tight spaces. Removing its doors and shelves reduces the risk of them getting damaged during transport. Getting the right screwdriver type (flathead or Phillips) ensures you can properly remove the screws without stripping them.
- Container
You need a dedicated container to store loose screws and small parts that can easily get lost in the moving chaos.
- Bubble Wrap and Packing Paper
Glass shelves and doors in the cabinet are especially vulnerable to breakage. Bubble wrap provides excellent cushioning, absorbing impact during bumps and jostles. Packing paper also adds another layer of protection and helps prevent scratches.
- Moving Blankets
The thick padding of moving blankets protects the china cabinet's exterior from scratches and dents. They also create a barrier between the cabinet and straps or other objects in the truck that could cause damage.
- Packing Tape
Packing tape is needed to secure bubble wrap, packing paper, and blankets around the cabinet and ensure they stay in place during transport.
- Ratchet Straps
Once loaded in the moving truck, the cabinet must be secured to prevent it from shifting or tipping over. Ratchet straps provide a strong and reliable way to hold the cabinet firmly in place.
- Furniture Dolly
China cabinets can be very heavy. A furniture dolly makes it much easier for you and any helpers to move the cabinet without straining your backs or risking injury. It allows you to roll the cabinet instead of lifting it, reducing the risk of dropping it.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Empty the Cabinet
Begin by removing all items from inside the cabinet, including dishes, glassware, and any other stored items. This step is crucial to prevent damage to the items and the cabinet during the move.
- Handle the Glass Elements with Care
If your cabinet has glass doors or shelves, carefully remove them. Wrap each piece in bubble wrap or moving blankets to protect them. Store screws and bolts in a container to avoid losing them.
- Secure the Doors and Shelves
If the doors or shelves cannot be removed, secure them with strong tape to prevent them from swinging open or falling out during the move.
- Determine if Your Cabinet is One-Piece or Two-Piece
Some China cabinets come in two pieces: a top hutch and a bottom buffet. If yours is a two-piece, moving each piece separately is easier.
- Wrap the Cabinet
Wrap the entire cabinet in moving blankets or furniture pads, securing them with packing tape to ensure they stay in place. For added protection, consider wrapping the cabinet in plastic wrap.
- Secure the Legs
If your cabinet has legs, wrap them individually with bubble wrap or moving blankets for extra protection.
- Move the Cabinet
With the help of a friend, lift the cabinet from the bottom, avoiding pressure on the glass parts. If possible, use a furniture dolly to ease the moving process. Make sure to use proper lifting techniques to prevent injury.
- Load the Cabinet into the Moving Vehicle
When loading the cabinet into the moving vehicle, place it in a secure spot. If your cabinet is a two-piece, load the bottom part first, followed by the top. Use ratchet straps to secure the cabinet to prevent it from moving during transit.
Moving a China cabinet requires careful planning and the right equipment to ensure it arrives safely at your new location. At TWO MEN AND A TRUCK, we are dedicated to making your move as smooth and stress-free as possible. If you need assistance, don’t hesitate to contact your local TWO MEN AND A TRUCK franchise for professional moving services.
By following this guide, you can confidently move your china cabinet without compromising its integrity or your safety. Happy moving!
Thinking of Moving Yourself?
Think Again!
While moving yourself may seem less expensive... the costs add up.
Do-It-Yourself Moving Costs:
- Truck Rental
- Mileage
- Fuel Charge
- Additional Insurance
- Equipment Rental
(straps, rope, furniture pads, bungee cords, stretch wrap, dollies, etc.)
- Time
- Boxes & Packing Supplies
- Possible Damages
(belongings, relationships, & injuries)
- Recruiting Friends to Help
- Food & Beverages
- Chiropractor Visits
- Packing a Truck
- Learning How to Maneuver a Moving Truck
- Broken Promises
Call TWO MEN AND A TRUCK
We can move as much or as little as you need while fitting your schedule & budget!
