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Flat, fragile and hanging items need a little extra care when you move. A TV, mirror or framed picture can be damaged by pressure or movement, while clothes and linen need to stay clean and dry. This guide explains how to pack each one, from choosing the right box to protecting items in transit. Kennards Self Storage’s Box Shop has all the moving boxes and protective wrapping to help you get started.

Which box should you use for each item?

The right box depends on an item’s actual dimensions, weight and fragility. Measure the item, then consider necessary wrapping and cushioning before choosing a box. A box that looks close to the right size may leave no room for protection, and a box with too much space risks the item moving around.

Kennards’ Picture & TV Box may suit TVs, mirrors or framed items that fit its dimensions. A Port a Robe is designed for hanging garments. Check the product dimensions and guidance before ordering. You can also browse moving boxes and protective wrapping in the Box Shop.

How to pack a TV for moving

A TV can be vulnerable to pressure on its screen and knocks to its edges. Before you start, check the manufacturer’s instructions for handling and transport. If those instructions recommend a particular orientation or packing method, follow them.

1. Disconnect and label the cables

Take a photo of the TV’s cable connections before unplugging anything. This gives you a handy reference when you set it up again. Disconnect the cables, then place them and any small accessories in a separate labelled bag or box. Avoid leaving loose cables attached to the TV, where they could snag or put pressure on a connection.

2. Choose the packaging

If you still have the original packaging and it is in good condition, it may be the best fit for the TV. Otherwise, choose a purpose-made TV moving box or another rigid box that fits the TV securely with room for suitable padding. A Kennards Picture & TV Box may be suitable, depending on your TV’s measurements.

Measure the TV’s width, height and depth. The diagonal screen measurement alone does not tell you whether the TV will fit the box. Include any stand or attachments in your measurements if they will remain connected.

3. Protect the screen, edges and corners

Use a clean, soft, non-abrasive material to protect the screen, then add cushioning around the edges and corners. Keep any adhesive away from the screen and finishes. Place the TV in the box according to the manufacturer’s guidance, and fill the remaining space so it cannot slide or rock.

Close and seal the box securely, without pressing hard on the screen. Label it as fragile and mark the correct orientation if the manufacturer specifies one.

4. Lift and transport it carefully

Use an appropriate lifting technique and ask another person for help if the TV is large, heavy or awkward to handle. the box so it cannot tip or slide, and avoid stacking other items on top of it.

How to pack mirrors for moving

1. Measure the mirror and choose a box

Measure the mirror, including its frame, and allow room for wrapping and corner protection. Choose a rigid, suitably sized picture box. The Kennards Picture & TV Box may suit mirrors that fit its dimensions; check the product measurements before choosing it.

2. Protect the surface and corners

Wrap the mirror in a clean, non-abrasive protective layer. Add corner protectors, taking care not to put adhesive directly on the glass, frame or decorative finish.

3. Cushion it without pressure

Place the mirror in the box and add suitable cushioning around it. Fill gaps gently so it cannot shift, but do not press packing material against the glass.

4. Label and handle carefully

Seal the box, label it as fragile and mark its handling orientation. For an oversized, heavy or unusually shaped mirror, consider a professional packer or removalist experienced with fragile items.

How to pack artwork and photo frames for moving

Artwork needs different care depending on whether it is a glazed framed print, an unglazed painting or a valuable original. For valuable, delicate, unframed or unusually shaped pieces, ask a specialist art handler or conservator for advice.

1. Choose protection to suit the artwork

Consider the surface and finish before wrapping. Use clean, suitable protective material, and keep bubble wrap and tape away from painted surfaces or finishes that could be marked.

2. Wrap and protect the frame

Protect the frame and corners, then wrap the piece so it cannot rub against other items. A rigid picture box, such as the Kennards Picture & TV Box, may suit an item that fits with room for cushioning.

3. Pack photo frames separately

Wrap each photo frame individually. Protect the glass, corners and decorative details, and place separators between frames to prevent rubbing.

4. Fill gaps and keep the box manageable

Fill empty space so frames cannot move, but do not overpack. Use a sturdy box that is manageable to lift, keep heavier items away from framed glass, and label the box as fragile.

How to use a wardrobe box for hanging clothes

A wardrobe box, or Port a Robe, is a tall moving box with a hanging rail for transporting clothes on their hangers. It can be useful for garments you would prefer to keep hanging, such as jackets, dresses or suits.

1. Assemble the box and check the rail

Set up the Kennards Port a Robe and check that the hanging rail is secure and the box is stable before loading it.

2. Transfer clean, dry clothes

Simply keep your garments on the hangers, and transfer the hangers to the rail, leaving enough space so they are not crushed or tightly packed. 

3. Close and label the box

Close and seal the box as directed, then label it by room or contents. Fold everyday clothes into a standard moving box if that is more practical; folded linen does not usually need hanging space.

How to pack linen and bedding for moving

1. Wash, dry and organise

Wash and fully dry linen and bedding before packing. Fold items neatly and group them by room or use, such as keeping each bedroom’s sheets together.

2. Choose a suitable box

Use a moving box that suits the volume and weight of your textiles. Kennards offers boxes in different sizes and strengths; keep each filled box manageable to lift. Add a clean liner or protective wrap if needed to keep fabrics clean.

3. Keep fabrics dry

Protect boxes from rain and damp during the move, and never seal damp linen in a box or bag. Vacuum bags can save space, but check the care instructions first and avoid compressing items for longer than recommended. For longer-term storage, pack linen only when fully dry and protect it from dust and moisture.

Common packing mistakes and final checklist

Avoid choosing a box before measuring, leaving corners or edges exposed, or leaving gaps that let items shift. Keep boxes liftable, do not overload wardrobe rails, pack only clean, dry fabrics and never stack weight on boxes containing fragile items.

Before you finish, check that you have:

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What box should I use to move a TV?

A. Use the TV’s original packaging if it is available and in good condition, or choose a rigid TV moving box, like our that fits the TV with room for suitable padding. Measure the TV’s width, height and depth; the diagonal screen size alone is not enough to confirm the fit. Follow the manufacturer’s handling and transport instructions.

Q. Will the Kennards Picture & TV Box fit every television?

A. No. The Kennards Picture & TV Box is listed as a 50-inch box and measures 1040 x 775 x 75 mm. TV sizes are usually quoted diagonally, so check your television’s width and height as well as the product dimensions and room for padding before you buy.

Q. Is newspaper suitable for wrapping a mirror or artwork?

A. Avoid placing newspaper directly against glass, painted surfaces or delicate finishes, as ink or rubbing may leave marks. Use clean, non-abrasive protective material instead, and keep tape away from the item itself.

Q. Should I remove a TV stand before packing?

A. If the stand is designed to detach, follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Keep the stand and its screws together in a labelled bag, separate from the screen, so they are easy to find when you set the TV up again.

Q. Can I pack shoes or accessories in a Port a Robe?

A. A Port a Robe is designed for hanging garments. Pack shoes and heavier accessories separately so they do not add weight to the rail or press against clothing. Follow the product’s loading guidance.

Choose the right box for your move

The right combination of box fit, cushioning and careful handling can help protect TVs, mirrors, artwork, clothes and linen during a move. Measure your belongings first, then explore the Kennards Box Shop for suitable boxes and protective wrapping.