Good packing is not about using the most bubble wrap. It is about controlling movement, pressure, moisture, weight and handling from the moment an item leaves its usual place until it is unpacked in the new home. On a European move, boxes may be carried down narrow stairs, stacked for a long drive, exposed to temperature changes and handled again at customs or storage. A sensible system protects the belongings, the people lifting them and the schedule.
This Packing & Preparation hub brings together Foolmovers’ practical guides for the possessions that cause the most questions: artwork, televisions, mirrors, plants, books and kitchen appliances. Each guide explains what materials to use, what shortcuts to avoid and how to prepare the item so a moving crew can load it safely.
Start with the item, not the box
Before buying materials, decide what can travel, what needs special handling and what should stay with you. Measure large or fragile items and photograph their condition. Check access at both addresses, including stair turns, lifts, parking restrictions and door widths. If an object cannot pass through the new doorway or safely stand upright in the vehicle, solving that before moving day is much cheaper than solving it at the kerb.
Six practical packing guides
How to Pack Artwork for an International Move
Choose the right protection for framed prints, canvases, glazed works and valuable originals, including when a custom crate is the safer option.
How to Pack a TV Without Regretting It Later
Prepare, wrap, box and position a flat-screen television without putting pressure on the panel or losing its cables and stand hardware.
How to Pack Mirrors So They Actually Survive the Journey
Protect corners, prevent flex and keep mirrors upright from room to van to destination.
Moving with Plants Across Europe: What You Need to Know
Plan for plant health rules, soil, watering, temperature and the limits of cross-border transport.
How to Pack Books Without Breaking Your Back (or the Boxes)
Use smaller boxes, manage weight and protect valuable books from crushed spines and moisture.
How to Pack Kitchen Appliances for a Safe International Move
Drain, clean, dry, secure and label everything from coffee machines to mixers and microwaves.
A reliable preparation sequence
- Declutter first. Do not spend time or transport space protecting things you will discard after arrival.
- Make an inventory. Record fragile, valuable and awkward items, with photographs where condition matters.
- Get the right materials. Use strong double-wall cartons, packing paper, corner protectors, suitable tape and purpose-made boxes when required.
- Pack by handling risk. Heavy objects need small boxes; fragile flat objects need rigid protection; appliances must be dry; plants need breathable containment.
- Label for action. A useful label says the room, contents, orientation and handling instruction—not just “miscellaneous”.
- Keep essentials separate. Passports, medicine, keys, chargers, documents and overnight items should travel with you.
When to ask for professional packing
Professional packing is worth considering when an item is unusually valuable, irreplaceable, heavy, awkward, unboxed or difficult to insure. It can also make sense when access is tight, the move includes temporary storage or there is little time between addresses. Discuss those items before the quotation so the team can plan materials, loading position and handling time rather than improvising on moving day.
Foolmovers handles small European moves up to 12m³ with driver help included. Read about our home removals service, see our offices and storage locations, or get a moving estimate. If you are unsure how an unusual item should be prepared, contact us before you pack it.
Frequently asked questions
How early should I start packing for an international move?
Start sorting four to six weeks before the move if possible. Pack rarely used items first and leave daily essentials until the final days. Fragile or unusual items should be discussed with the mover early because specialist cartons or crates may need to be ordered.
What should not go in the moving van?
Keep passports, medicines, keys, payment cards, jewellery, irreplaceable documents and devices needed during travel with you. Dangerous goods, leaking liquids, perishable food and restricted plants or products may not be accepted. Confirm uncertain items before moving day.
Should every box be marked fragile?
No. If every box says fragile, the label stops being useful. Mark fragile cartons clearly and add orientation arrows where needed. The strongest protection still comes from correct internal packing and a box that does not allow the contents to move.
Can Foolmovers help with packing?
Ask during the quotation. Share photographs and dimensions of fragile or awkward items so the team can confirm what preparation, materials and handling can be included for your route.