Whether you’re moving into a dorm or merging households with your new spouse, you need your favorite items to arrive undamaged. Learning how to pack lamps for a move is essential for avoiding broken bulbs, chipped shades, and unexpected lighting malfunctions.
HireAHelper has seen thousands of moves, so we know a thing or two about how the pros pack and haul delicate items so follow these packing tips we’ve compiled for lamps to ensure a smooth move.
Supplies Needed to Pack Lamps Safely
Lamps have bulbs, shades, and other delicate parts, so a successful move starts with the right packing supplies. Gather these items first:
- Bubble wrap: Bubble wrap uses tiny air bubbles to protect fragile objects or glass lampshades from damage.
- Foam peanuts: Foam provides extra cushioning for fragile objects.
- Packing paper: Use packing paper to fill empty spaces in your moving boxes.
- Twist ties or elastic bands: These are ideal for keeping lamp cords out of the way.
- Packing tape: Packing tape is sturdy enough to keep large boxes closed during the moving process.
- Masking tape: Masking tape is easy to remove, making it ideal for securing packing materials and creating labels.
- Boxes large enough for each shade and base: To keep your lamps in excellent shape, you’ll need to pack them in boxes rather than stacking them in a vehicle on their own.
- Permanent marker: Use a permanent marker to label each box.
- Old towels, blankets, or cloths: Soft items are ideal for adding extra cushioning during transport.
You can get most of these items at any general merchandise or home improvement store. Save money by asking friends or family members to share extra supplies.
Step-by-Step Guide for Packing Lamps
Even though they’re delicate pieces, moving with lamps is easier than you think. Simply unplug each lamp, remove the detachable components, and pack everything in well-cushioned boxes. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you save time.
1. Unplug Each Lamp
The first step is to unplug each lamp and separate the components. Here’s how to get started:
- Unplug each lamp you want to pack.
- Wrap the electrical cord around the base of each lamp to keep it out of your way.
- Secure cords with elastic bands, twist ties, or masking tape.
Finish by wiping each lamp to remove dirt, pet hair, and dust bunnies. You don’t want to track that stuff into your new home, so it’s best to take care of it before you pack the lamp away.
2. Remove Detachable Components
Next, remove all detachable components from your lamps. Separate the shade from the base first. Then remove the bulbs, harps, and finials. Harps are the U-shaped parts that fit over the sockets, while finials are decorative elements used to hold shades in place.
Once you remove the bulbs, cover them with bubble wrap and put them in a box to prevent them from shattering during transport. Place the harp, finial, and screws from each lamp into a separate zipper storage bag. Mark each bag with the name of the corresponding lamp (e.g., “Living Room Floor Lamp”) to make it easy to reassemble everything later. Finish off this step by placing the zipper bags in a box, or taping them on the inside of the box their respective lamp is in.
3. Pack the Shades
Now it’s time to pack your lampshades. Follow these steps:
- Wrap the shades in packing paper or bubble wrap.
- Place each shade in a box.
- Add foam peanuts or other packing materials to prevent the shade from moving around. Avoid using too much material, or you might end up crushing the shade.
- Write “Fragile” on the side of each box and label which side is up.
Keep your work area organized by setting these boxes to the side until you’re ready to load your vehicle. It also helps prevent damage when the boxes are out of the way and there’s less of a risk of anyone or anything bumping into them.
4. Pack the Bases
When packing lamps for a move, it’s all about protecting the base. Wrap the bottom of each lamp in thick paper, old cloths, or bubble wrap. If you use paper, secure it with packing tape, but don’t attach the tape directly to the lamp. The sticky surface might rip off some of the paint.
“For best results, choose a box that’s slightly larger than your lampshade or base. If the box is too big, the lamp is likely to move around, increasing the risk of damage.”
Next, put the base in a box. If you’re working with a floor lamp, look for something tall and narrow. Smaller boxes are ideal for table lamps and accent lights. After placing the lamp upright, surround it with plain packing paper, foam peanuts, or other materials to prevent it from tipping over. Remember not to crowd the box with packing materials.
Wrap up by sealing the box with packing tape and writing “Fragile” on the side. Repeat this process until all your lamps are in boxes.
5. Load the Boxes Into Your Vehicle
Once you’ve mastered the packing process, it’s time to load your vehicle. Follow these tips to keep your lamps in tiptop shape during the move:
- Load the boxes right side up. If needed, draw arrows to indicate which direction each one should face.
- Put tall boxes on the floor of the vehicle.
- Stack small boxes containing lamp shades, light bulbs, and other components on top of heavier items.
How to Transport Lamps Safely
Once you have everything nestled inside well-cushioned boxes, it’s time to transport your lamps to their destination. To prevent breakage during the trip, use retractable straps to secure each box inside the vehicle. Alternatively, you can place old blankets or towels on the floor to provide extra cushioning when driving over speed bumps or potholes.
Unpacking and Reassembling Lamps
You did it! All your packing preparation has paid off, and now it’s time to set up your new home. Here’s how to get your lamps unpacked and reassembled quickly:
- Locate the box with a lamp base in it. Open the box by using scissors or another sharp object to cut through the seal.
- Find the box with the matching lampshade. Break the seal.
- Remove the base and the shade from their boxes.
- Open the boxes containing your bulbs, harps, and finials. Find the components you need to assemble your first lamp.
- Attach the harp, if applicable.
- Install the bulb.
- Attach the lampshade to the base.
- Secure the lampshade with the corresponding finial.
- Plug in the lamp and make sure it works.
Repeat this process until all your lamps have been reassembled.
Learn more on our How to Pack Hub.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moving Lamps, Answered
HireAHelper is here with answers to your most pressing questions about how to pack lamps for a move.
What if my lamp is fragile or oversized?
Instead of placing the base in a box, wrap it in several layers of bubble wrap. When you’re ready to transport your items, place the wrapped lamp base on its side. Use blankets or other soft items to protect the lamp from other objects.
Can I move lamps myself, or should I hire professionals?
As we’ve just outlined, you can certainly do a DIY move! But if your schedule’s packed or you’re still not sure about it, it’s always easy to work with a vetted mover. And HireAHelper is here to connect you with the right one.
What kind of box is best for moving lamps?
For best results, choose a box that’s slightly larger than your lampshade or base. If the box is too big, the lamp is likely to move around, increasing the risk of damage.
Can I stack lamps on top of other packed items?
Yes, if you stack them carefully. Always place lamps on top of heavier items to prevent them from getting damaged during transport.
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