Move Your Chandelier in 6 steps.
Moving in Nairobi. It is a complex task filled with a long checklist, but few items strike fear into the hearts of movers quite like a delicate, multi-armed chandelier. These beautiful fixtures are often family heirlooms or significant investments, and the thought of them shattering in transit is a nightmare.
Fear not! With careful preparation and the right materials, you can pack your chandelier securely and ensure it arrives at your new home ready to shine. Follow these six simple steps to protect your chandelier during a move.
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Before you touch the fixture, collect everything you’ll need. Being prepared prevents you from having to stop halfway through, which can lead to mistakes and damage.
You will need:
- Soft packing paper or bubble wrap (avoid newspaper, as the ink can transfer onto crystals and glass)
- Strong cardboard boxes (one large enough for the entire chandelier body, or several smaller ones for individual pieces)
- Zip-top bags in various sizes
- Packing tape
- A permanent marker for labeling
- A camera or smartphone (this is crucial!)
- Gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges and glass
Step 2: Document and Disassemble
This is the most critical step for a successful reassembly.
- Take Pictures: Before you unscrew a single thing, use your phone to take clear, close-up photos of the chandelier from every angle. Focus on how the arms connect, how crystals are hung, and how the wiring is set up. This visual guide will be invaluable later.
- Remove Bulbs & Fragile Parts:
- Carefully unscrew all light bulbs and place them together in a zip-top bag. Wrap the entire bag in bubble wrap for extra protection.
- Gently remove any fragile dangling pieces like crystals, glass shades, or decorative bobeches. Wrap each one individually in packing paper to prevent them from scratching each other.
Step 3: Bag and Label the Hardware
As you disassemble the fixture, you’ll remove screws, nuts, washers, and mounting brackets. It’s incredibly easy for these small parts to get lost.
- Place them immediately into a small, labeled zip-top bag. A simple label like “HARDWARE” or “MOUNTING BRACKET” is perfect. For complex fixtures, you might use multiple bags labeled for specific arms. Tape this bag directly to the wrapped body of the chandelier or place it in a box you won’t lose.
Step 4: Wrap the Main Body
Now, focus on the chandelier’s core structure.
- Gently wrap the main metal or wooden frame in several layers of bubble wrap or soft packing paper.
- Pay special attention to any protruding arms or sharp points; cushion them thoroughly.
- Use packing tape to secure the wrap, but be careful not to tape directly onto the chandelier’s surface, as it could leave a residue or damage the finish.
Step 5: Pack with Extreme Care
Choosing the right box and packing method is key.
- Select a sturdy cardboard box that is slightly larger than the wrapped chandelier.
- Cushion the bottom of the box with a layer of crumpled packing paper or bubble wrap.
- Place the wrapped chandelier inside, ensuring it does not touch the sides of the box.
- Fill any empty spaces with more crumpled paper or bubble wrap to prevent any movement during transit. The fixture should be snug but not compressed.
- Clearly mark the box with “FRAGILE,” “CHANDELIER,” and “TOP LOAD ONLY” on all sides using your marker.
Step 6: Transport Securely
The final step is ensuring it’s handled correctly on moving day.
- Communicate with your movers (or family members helping you move) that the box is extremely fragile and must be loaded on top of other items.
- Make sure the box is placed in the truck with the “THIS SIDE ↑ UP” arrow facing upward. It should never be placed on its side or have any other boxes stacked on top of it.
- If possible, transport the box containing the crystals and bulbs in your own car for an extra layer of security.
Move Your Chandelier
By following these methodical steps, you can drastically reduce the risk of damaging your precious chandelier. A little extra time spent on careful packing will guarantee that the first thing to light up in your new home is a symbol of your careful planning and a beautiful new beginning.