Protecting What You Love: How to Pack Pictures and Mirrors Safely

Grant Cool • December 15, 2025

Moving is more than just relocating furniture; it's about transporting your life and memories. Among the most cherished items in any home are the photographs capturing milestones, the artwork that reflects your taste, and the mirrors that open up your living spaces. These items are also some of the most fragile and difficult to move. A single bump in the road or an accidental slip can result in shattered glass and damaged frames.

At Prescott Moving Company, we understand that these aren't just "things"—they are the pieces that make your house a home. Whether it's a priceless oil painting, a large decorative mirror, or a gallery wall of family photos, these items require specialized attention. We treat your fragile belongings with the same care we would our own, using professional techniques and materials to ensure they arrive at your new destination in perfect condition.

Why Pictures and Mirrors Are at High Risk

It’s easy to underestimate the vulnerability of flat glass items. Many homeowners assume that wrapping a mirror in a blanket or throwing some bubble wrap around a picture frame is enough. However, the dynamics of a moving truck involve vibration, shifting weight, and potential impact. Standard household packing materials often fall short. Towels slip, newspaper offers zero shock absorption, and standard cardboard boxes can buckle under pressure. The glass in picture frames and mirrors is under constant tension; without rigid support and proper cushioning, it can crack simply from the vibrations of the road, even without a direct impact. Frames, especially ornate or antique ones, are prone to chipping or separating at the corners if not properly braced.

The Professional Difference: Materials Matter

The first step in our safety protocol at Prescott Moving Company is using the right tools for the job. We don't rely on generic supplies. Our packing arsenal is specifically designed for fragile, flat items.

specialized Boxes

We use telescoping mirror and picture boxes. These are heavy-duty, double-walled cartons that come in multiple pieces. They slide together to create a custom fit for the height of your artwork or mirror. This ensures a snug fit that prevents the item from sliding around inside the box—a primary cause of damage.

Glass Protection Tape

Before wrapping begins, we often apply specialized glass protection tape (or masking tape in an "X" pattern) across the surface of the glass. In the unlikely event of a break, this keeps the shards together, preventing them from scratching the artwork or canvas behind the glass.

High-Density Bubble Wrap and Foam

Not all bubble wrap is created equal. We use industrial-grade bubble wrap with larger bubbles for maximum shock absorption. For particularly heavy or valuable pieces, we may use foam boards to create an additional layer of rigid protection against punctures.

Corner Protectors

The corners of frames are their weakest points. They take the brunt of the impact when a box is set down. We utilize dedicated cardboard or foam corner protectors that shield these vulnerable points from crushing and scuffing.

Our Step-by-Step Packing Process

When you hire Prescott Moving Company to handle your delicate wall hangings, we follow a rigorous process designed to eliminate risk. Here is a look at how we secure your valuables.

1. Preparation and Evaluation

We start by assessing the item. Is it a canvas painting without glass? Is it a heavy antique mirror with a gilded frame? Is it a standard family photo? Each type requires a slightly different approach. For oil paintings, we ensure nothing touches the canvas face. For glass, we focus on shock absorption.

2. The "X" Factor

For glass-fronted items, we apply tape in a large "X" across the glass. As mentioned, this adds structural integrity to the glass pane and contains shards if a fracture occurs due to extreme vibration.

3. Corner Protection

We attach protective corners to the frame. This creates a buffer zone around the entire perimeter of the piece, ensuring that if the item shifts inside the box, the frame itself never makes direct contact with the cardboard walls.

4. The Wrap

We wrap the entire piece in glassine paper (for artwork) or acid-free packing paper to prevent sticking and staining. Then comes the bubble wrap. We wrap the item generously, securing it with packing tape. Crucially, we ensure the tape only sticks to the bubble wrap, never to your frame or the back of the artwork.

5. Boxing and Padding

The wrapped item is placed into the specialized mirror box. If there is any empty space—even a fraction of an inch—we fill it with crumpled packing paper. Movement is the enemy; the goal is for the item to be suspended in a cushion of paper and air, completely immobile inside the carton.

6. Labeling and Loading

Once sealed, the box is clearly labeled "FRAGILE - GLASS" and "THIS END UP." But a label is only as good as the person reading it. Our movers are trained to load these items vertically (on their edges), never flat. Stacking heavy boxes on top of a flat mirror is a recipe for disaster. By storing them upright, wedged between soft items like mattresses or sofa cushions, we provide maximum stability during transit.

Custom Crating for High-Value Items

For extremely valuable fine art, large sculptures, or oversized mirrors that won't fit in standard telescoping boxes, Prescott Moving Company offers custom crating solutions.

Our team can build a wooden crate tailored to the exact dimensions of your piece. These crates are lined with foam and offer the ultimate protection against puncture, crushing, and environmental factors. This is the gold standard for moving high-value assets and ensures that your irreplaceable items have armor-plated protection for their journey.

Peace of Mind for Your Next Move

Moving is stressful enough without worrying about whether your grandmother's antique mirror or your wedding portrait will survive the trip. You shouldn't have to hold your breath every time the moving truck hits a pothole. By entrusting your packing to Prescott Moving Company, you are choosing experience, precision, and a deep respect for your belongings. We take the burden off your shoulders, giving you the freedom to focus on the excitement of settling into your new home. Let us handle the fragile things so you can hold onto the memories. Ready for a move where everything arrives in one piece? Contact Prescott Moving Company today for a free quote and ask about our specialized packing services for artwork and mirrors.

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Moving Fragile Items? Trust the Experts

By Grant Cool • December 6, 2025

Of all the tasks on a moving checklist, one causes more anxiety than any other: packing and moving fragile items . You can replace a sofa or a toaster, but the family heirlooms, delicate glassware, and priceless artwork are irreplaceable. The fear of opening a box to find shattered memories is enough to make anyone dread the moving process. It’s a specialized task that requires more than just a cardboard box and some old newspaper. This is where professional expertise becomes invaluable. At Prescott Moving Company, we understand that your most delicate possessions are also your most precious. We specialize in the art and science of moving fragile items, combining professional-grade materials, proven techniques, and meticulous handling to ensure your valuables arrive at your new home in the same condition they left. Don't leave the safety of your most cherished belongings to chance; let our team provide the peace of mind you deserve. Why Fragile Items Demand Professional Care It’s tempting to think you can handle packing your fragile items yourself. How hard can it be? The reality is that moving is a dynamic process. Boxes get stacked, trucks vibrate on the road, and items shift during transit. Everyday packing methods are simply not enough to protect delicate objects from these forces. Professionals are trained to see a move through a different lens. We anticipate the stress points and prepare for them. Using the wrong box, not enough padding, or improper wrapping techniques can lead to disaster. A professional mover has the experience to assess each item’s unique needs and apply the correct packing strategy, turning a risky gamble into a secure and calculated process. The Prescott Moving Company Method for Fragile Items Our approach to handling fragile belongings is built on a foundation of expertise, specialized materials, and careful execution. We treat your valuables with the same care and respect that we would our own. 1. Custom Packing Plans for Your Valuables We begin by assessing what needs to be moved. Our team identifies all fragile items, from delicate stemware and china to large-scale artwork, mirrors, and sensitive electronics. We then create a custom packing plan tailored to the specific requirements of your belongings. Glassware and China: These items require careful, individual attention. We use techniques like cellular division in dish pack boxes, where each plate is separated by cardboard dividers, and each glass is wrapped in multiple layers of packing paper before being placed in a secure cell. Antiques and Heirlooms: We understand that antique furniture and objects often have unique structural weaknesses. Our team evaluates each piece to determine the best way to wrap, pad, and support it. We use high-quality moving blankets, custom crating, and specialized padding to protect delicate legs, intricate carvings, and aged finishes. Artwork and Mirrors: Large, flat, fragile items are highly susceptible to cracking under pressure. We use custom-built picture crates or telescoping mirror boxes that provide rigid, unyielding protection. Each piece is wrapped in soft, non-acidic paper and padded to prevent scratches and absorb shock. Electronics: Modern electronics like flat-screen TVs, computers, and audio equipment have sensitive components. We use original packaging when available or provide specialty electronics boxes with foam inserts that secure the item and protect it from static and vibration. 2. The Right Materials Make All the Difference The quality of the packing materials is just as important as the technique. While it may seem cost-effective to use old towels or newspapers, these materials offer inconsistent protection. Prescott Moving Company uses only professional-grade supplies designed specifically for the rigors of a move. Dish Pack Boxes: These are not ordinary boxes. They feature heavy-duty, double-walled construction to resist crushing when stacked. Packing Paper: Unlike newspaper, our clean, ink-free packing paper won't smudge or stain your belongings. It provides excellent cushioning when properly crumpled. Bubble Wrap: Ideal for providing a cushioned air barrier around particularly delicate items, we use various sizes of bubble wrap to match the item’s needs. Custom Crating: For items of extreme value or unusual shape, such as sculptures or chandeliers, we can build custom wooden crates. This provides the ultimate level of protection against any external impact. 3. Expert Handling and Transportation Packing is only half the battle. How items are carried, loaded, and secured in the truck is equally critical. Our moving crew is trained in the proper handling of fragile goods. We use specialized equipment like dollies and furniture straps to move heavy and awkward items safely, minimizing the risk of drops or bumps. When loading the truck, we use a strategic tiering system. Heavy, sturdy items create a solid base, and fragile boxes are placed on top and in secure locations where they will not shift or be crushed. This "wall" of securely packed boxes ensures everything stays put, no matter what the road brings. Your Partner for a Stress-Free Move At Prescott Moving Company, our commitment goes beyond simply moving boxes. We are dedicated to providing a stress-free experience from start to finish. Knowing that your most precious and irreplaceable items are in safe hands allows you to focus on the excitement of starting a new chapter in your life. We pride ourselves on clear communication, meticulous attention to detail, and unwavering respect for your property. Our reputation is built on the trust our clients place in us, and we earn that trust with every plate we wrap and every box we move. We don’t just see fragile items; we see your memories, your heirlooms, and the things that make your house a home. Trust Your Valuables to the Professionals Moving doesn't have to be a stressful ordeal filled with worry about broken belongings. With the right team on your side, you can have confidence that everything will arrive safely. Let the experts at Prescott Moving Company handle the delicate work. Our specialized skills, professional materials, and commitment to customer satisfaction ensure your fragile items are protected every step of the way. Stop worrying about how you will get your grandmother’s china or your favorite painting to your new home. We’ve got it covered. Ready to plan a secure and stress-free move? Contact Prescott Moving Company today for a free quote and let our fragile-item specialists give you the peace of mind you deserve! Meta Information Meta Title: Fragile Item Moving Experts | Prescott Moving Company Meta Description: Moving fragile items? Prescott Moving Company specializes in safely packing and moving glassware, antiques, and artwork. Get a free quote for a stress-free move.

A Guide to Finding Affordable Moving Boxes

By Grant Cool • November 19, 2025

Moving is a process filled with checklists and to-do items, from forwarding your mail to coordinating logistics. But one of the most immediate and often underestimated tasks is gathering enough moving boxes. It seems simple until you realize you need dozens of them in various shapes and sizes. The scramble begins, and soon you're wondering where you can find quality boxes without spending a fortune . The boxes you choose are the first line of defense for your belongings. Using weak, damaged, or improperly sized boxes can lead to broken valuables and a stressful moving day. At Prescott Moving Company, we believe a smooth move starts with the right packing supplies. We help our clients find affordable, accessible moving boxes and supplies, ensuring their possessions are safe and secure from start to finish. This guide will walk you through the importance of proper boxes and how we can help you source them without breaking your budget. Why the Right Box Matters More Than You Think It’s tempting to grab any cardboard box you can find, but not all boxes are created equal. Using old grocery store boxes or flimsy containers from online orders can put your belongings at risk. Professional movers understand that the quality of your packing materials directly impacts the safety of your move. Protection and Durability Professional moving boxes are designed for the job. They are made from a specific type of corrugated cardboard that provides structural integrity. This allows them to be stacked in a moving truck without crushing the contents inside. A box that once held a bag of chips simply doesn't have the strength to protect your dinner plates or heavy books. Using sturdy boxes minimizes the risk of damage from shifting loads and bumps in the road. Efficient Stacking and Organization Moving boxes come in standardized sizes for a reason. Uniformity makes loading a moving truck far more efficient and secure. Boxes of the same size can be stacked into stable tiers, creating solid walls that prevent items from shifting during transit. Using a random assortment of odd-sized boxes creates an unstable, Jenga-like puzzle in the back of the truck, increasing the likelihood of items toppling over and breaking. Specialized Protection for Valuables Some items require more than just a standard box. Fragile glassware, large mirrors, and expensive electronics need specialized containers. Prescott Moving Company can guide you on which specialty boxes are worth the investment. Dish Pack Boxes: These feature double-thick walls and optional cardboard dividers to safely cushion plates, glasses, and stemware. Wardrobe Boxes: Equipped with a metal bar, these boxes allow you to hang clothes directly from your closet, preventing wrinkles and making unpacking simple. Picture/Mirror Boxes: These telescoping boxes can be adjusted to fit various sizes of artwork, mirrors, and flat-screen TVs, providing rigid protection for fragile, flat items. How Prescott Moving Company Helps You Source Boxes We know that buying brand-new boxes for an entire household can get expensive. Part of our commitment to a stress-free move is helping you find the right supplies in the most affordable way possible. Our team provides expert advice and practical solutions for every budget. Free and Low-Cost Sourcing Tips Over our years of moving families in and around Prescott, we've learned all the local secrets for finding budget-friendly boxes. When you work with us, we share this insider knowledge. We can point you toward: Local Retail Stores: Many big-box stores and grocery stores are happy to give away their empty cardboard boxes. We can advise you on the best times to ask and which stores typically have the sturdiest boxes (e.g., liquor store boxes are great for heavy items like books). Community Groups: Online neighborhood forums and social media marketplaces are excellent resources. People who have just moved are often eager to get rid of their gently used moving boxes for free or at a very low cost. Recycling Centers: Sometimes, local recycling drop-off points have designated areas for flattened, reusable cardboard boxes. While we can help you find these free options, we also provide guidance on how to inspect them. We’ll tell you how to check for structural integrity, water damage, and any signs of pests to ensure the free boxes you find are safe to use. Providing Professional-Grade Packing Supplies For your most valuable and fragile items, we always recommend using new, high-quality materials. Prescott Moving Company offers a complete range of professional-grade packing supplies for purchase. This service provides convenience and peace of mind, saving you the time and hassle of shopping around. Our packing supply services include: A Full Range of Box Sizes: From small boxes for heavy items to extra-large boxes for bulky linens, we have the right size for everything you own. Specialty Boxes: We offer wardrobe, dish pack, and mirror boxes to ensure your most delicate items are properly protected. Essential Packing Materials: Beyond boxes, we provide everything else you need, including packing paper, bubble wrap, packing tape, and markers. Convenient Delivery: We can deliver the supplies you need directly to your door, allowing you to focus on the task of packing. By purchasing supplies through us, you are guaranteed to receive clean, sturdy, and reliable materials specifically designed for the moving industry. Expert Recommendations on Quantity and Type How many boxes do you actually need? It’s a common question with a tricky answer. Buying too few results in last-minute panic, while buying too many is a waste of money. Our experienced team can accurately estimate the number and types of boxes you'll need based on the size of your home and the nature of your belongings. This expert guidance prevents unnecessary spending and ensures you have what you need when you need it. Pack Smarter, Not Harder, with an Expert Partner Finding the right moving boxes is the first step toward a successful, damage-free move. It sets the foundation for secure packing and safe transportation. While sourcing free boxes is a great way to save money, it’s crucial to balance cost-saving with the need to protect your valuables. With Prescott Moving Company, you don't have to make these decisions alone. We act as your moving partner, providing the expert advice and resources you need to pack efficiently and affordably. From pointing you to the best local spots for free boxes to delivering professional-grade supplies to your doorstep, we are here to support you at every stage of the process. Let us take the guesswork out of packing so you can focus on the excitement of your upcoming move. Ready to start packing? Contact Prescott Moving Company today for expert assistance, professional packing solutions, and a free moving quote! Meta Information Meta Title: Affordable Moving Boxes in Prescott | A Pro's Guide Meta Description: Find affordable and sturdy moving boxes in Prescott. Our guide covers where to source free boxes and how Prescott Moving Company provides expert packing help.

Getting rid of items that don't need to be held on too.

What Not to Pack: A Moving Decluttering Guide

By Grant Cool • November 10, 2025

Moving to a new home is an exciting chapter, but the process of getting there can feel overwhelming. One of the biggest sources of stress is the sheer volume of "stuff" we accumulate over the years. Packing up every single item, moving it, and then finding a place for it in your new home is a massive undertaking. What if you could make your move significantly easier, cheaper, and less stressful? At Prescott Moving Company, we’ve seen it all. With decades of experience helping families move in and around Prescott, we know that the secret to a smooth move isn't just about expert packing—it starts with smart decluttering . By taking the time to sort through your belongings and get rid of what you no longer need, you can save time, money, and a whole lot of effort. This guide shares our professional tips on how to decide what stays and what goes. The High Cost of Moving Clutter Before diving into the "how," it's important to understand the "why." Why is it so crucial to declutter before you move? Moving clutter costs you in several ways: Money: Professional movers often charge based on the weight of your shipment or the time it takes to load and unload the truck. The more you move, the more you pay. You're also paying for packing materials—boxes, tape, bubble wrap—for items you might not even want. Time: Every item you own must be packed, labeled, loaded, transported, unloaded, and unpacked. A weekend spent packing expired pantry items and old clothes is a weekend you'll never get back. Space: Your new home is a fresh start. Filling it with clutter from your old home immediately makes it feel smaller and more disorganized. Starting with only the things you truly need and love allows you to design your new space with intention. Stress: Facing a mountain of boxes is daunting. The more there is to unpack, the longer it takes to feel settled and comfortable in your new environment. The Prescott Moving Company Method: A Room-by-Room Strategy The thought of decluttering an entire house at once is paralyzing. The key is to break it down into manageable chunks. Tackle one room—or even just one closet—at a time. As you go through each item, use a simple four-category system. Get four large boxes or bins and label them: Keep , Donate , Sell , and Discard . Every single item you touch must go into one of these four boxes. There is no "maybe" pile. If you're struggling to decide, ask yourself these critical questions: Have I used this in the last year? Is it broken? If so, will I realistically fix it before I move? Do I have more than one of these? Do I need a duplicate? Does it fit my new home's style or space? Am I keeping this out of guilt or obligation? Would I buy this item today if I saw it in a store? If the answers are "no," it's time to let it go. What You Don’t Need: A Checklist for Decluttering Here are some of the most common items we see people move unnecessarily. Use this as a guide to start identifying what you can get rid of. In the Kitchen The kitchen is a prime spot for clutter. Be ruthless here. Expired Food: Go through your pantry, fridge, and spice rack. Toss anything that is expired. Consider donating unexpired, non-perishable food you don't want to move to a local food bank. Duplicate Utensils and Gadgets: How many wooden spoons, whisks, or can openers do you really need? Keep the best one and donate the rest. The same goes for that single-purpose gadget you used once (we're looking at you, apple corer). Chipped or Stained Dishware: Mismatched and damaged mugs, plates, and bowls take up valuable space. Old Water Bottles and Travel Mugs: Keep your favorites and recycle the rest. In the Closets Clothing is personal, but closets are often filled with items we no longer wear. Clothes That Don't Fit: Be honest. If it hasn't fit in over a year, it's time to donate it. Outdated or Worn-Out Fashion: That bridesmaid dress from a decade ago or those worn-out shoes can go. Unused Accessories: Scarves, belts, and jewelry you never wear are just taking up space. Excess Hangers: Keep enough for the clothes you're taking and get rid of the bent wire ones. In the Bathroom Bathrooms can quickly become a graveyard for half-used products. Expired Medications and Toiletries: Check expiration dates on everything. Most pharmacies have safe disposal programs for old medications. Old Makeup and Sunscreen: These products have a shelf life. If it's old, smells off, or has changed consistency, toss it. Frayed Towels and Linens: Old, stained, or ripped towels can be repurposed as cleaning rags or donated to an animal shelter. In the Office and Living Areas This is where paper, media, and electronics tend to pile up. Old Manuals and Paperwork: Most manuals are available online. Shred old bills and documents you no longer need to keep for tax or legal reasons. Physical Media: DVDs, CDs, and old books you'll never watch or read again can be sold or donated. Consider digitizing old photos and home movies to save space. Outdated Electronics and Cables: That box of random cables for devices you no longer own can be recycled. Many electronics stores have e-waste recycling programs. In the Garage and Storage Areas These spaces are magnets for clutter. Old Paint Cans and Chemicals: These can be hazardous and difficult to move. Check with local waste management for proper disposal guidelines. Broken Tools and Lawn Equipment: If it's beyond repair, it's time to let it go. Unused Hobby Supplies: That project you started five years ago and never finished? It might be time to pass those supplies on to someone who will use them. A Fresh Start Begins Before You Pack Decluttering is about more than just getting rid of junk; it's about making a conscious choice to start fresh in your new home with only the things that serve a purpose or bring you joy. It's the most powerful step you can take to ensure your move is efficient, cost-effective, and low-stress. Once you've sorted through everything, the hard part is over. The team at Prescott Moving Company can then step in to expertly handle the rest. We provide the professional packing, loading, and transport services you need for a seamless transition. By doing the decluttering work upfront, you allow us to move you more quickly and affordably. Ready to make your move a truly fresh start? Contact Prescott Moving Company today for a free estimate and expert advice on making your next move your best move. Meta Information Meta Title: Moving Decluttering Tips: What Not to Pack | Prescott Moving Meta Description: Save time, money, and stress on your move. Prescott Moving Company shares expert tips on what to declutter before you pack your first box.