Crating is one of the most effective ways to protect fragile, high-value, or unusually shaped items during a move. Yet many customers feel confused about when crating is required, when it’s simply recommended, how much it costs, and whether their belongings actually need it. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about crating — so you can make informed decisions and avoid expensive damage claims.
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Why Crating Matters in Modern Moving Logistics
Long-distance moves expose your items to vibration, stacking, moisture changes, weight shifts, multiple handlers, and long transit hours. Standard packing materials like cardboard boxes and blankets work for everyday household goods, but some items need engineered structural protection. This is where crating becomes essential.
Crates protect items from:
- Impact and compression damage
- Vibration during long-distance transit
- Moisture or temperature fluctuation
- Shifting loads inside trucks
- Improper stacking or accidental pressure
A properly built crate surrounds the item with a rigid shell and internal padding, creating a shock-resistant environment. This dramatically reduces risk — especially for expensive or irreplaceable items.
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When Crating Is Required (Mandatory Situations)
Some items simply cannot be safely transported without a crate. These scenarios are considered mandatory because skipping a crate could lead to breakage, insurance denial, or mover refusal.
1. Extremely Fragile Items
- Large glass tabletops
- Glass sculptures or blown-glass decor
- Oversized mirrors
- Stone or marble tops
These items fracture with even moderate stress or vibration. FMCSA guidelines recommend rigid containerization for fragile surfaces.
2. High-Value Artwork
Paintings valued above $1,000, canvas pieces, framed art with glass, or collectible prints must be crated to avoid impact damage and corner crushing. Museums and galleries never ship art without crates — and neither should movers.
3. Large or Delicate Electronics
- Professional cameras
- Studio monitors
- Projectors
- High-value desktop computers
Shock, temperature changes, and vibration can permanently damage these items.
4. Antique or Irreplaceable Furniture
- Hand-carved wooden pieces
- Delicate curio cabinets
- China hutches
- Antique grandfather clocks
These pieces often cannot withstand pressure or stacking inside the truck without structural reinforcement.
5. Items Required by Insurance or High-Value Riders
Full Value Protection policies often require a crate for high-value or fragile items. If the customer declines crating but the item breaks, the claim may be denied.
6. Sculptures and Odd-Shaped Items
Any item that does not fit securely into a standard box needs a custom crate to prevent shifting and point-pressure damage.
7. High-End Musical Instruments
- Cellos
- Guitars
- Pianos (components)
- Harp, violin, or instrument cases
Instruments can easily crack under sudden movement or humidity changes.
When Crating Is Recommended but Not Mandatory
Some items do not require a crate but benefit significantly from the added protection. Moving professionals often recommend crating in the following scenarios:
1. Electronics Without Original Boxes
Flat-screen TVs, speakers, and gaming systems ship safely in original boxes — but few people keep them. A crate offers safer structural support.
2. Medium Fragile Decor
- Vases
- Lamps
- Delicate ceramics
These items can survive with heavy padding but may still be vulnerable to pressure inside a truck.
3. Expensive Rugs
Handwoven rugs or Persian carpets can be rolled, wrapped, and crated to prevent dust, moisture, or compression damage.
4. Small Furniture with Fragile Legs
Chairs, accent tables, and stands often break because of pressure on narrow legs. Crating distributes weight more evenly.
5. High-End Appliances
Commercial espresso machines, premium mixers, and wine fridges sometimes need crating depending on weight and instability.
6. Office Equipment
Servers, monitors, and lab equipment benefit from shock-proof environments.
7. Large Decorative Items
Oversized lamps, statues, or one-of-a-kind decor pieces do not tolerate stacking pressure well.
Types of Crates Used in Moving
Movers use multiple crate types depending on the fragility, size, and weight of the item.
1. Custom Wooden Crates
Built specifically for the item’s dimensions.
- Best for artwork
- Best for glass/stone tops
- Best for antiques
2. Prefabricated Crates
Standard-sized crates built from plywood or composite panels.
3. ATA Flight Cases
Road cases used for electronics, instruments, and professional gear.
4. Foam-Lined Crates
Contain shock-absorbing foam for ultra-fragile items.
5. Skeleton Crates
Wood frames for items that need structure without full enclosure.
How Much Does Crating Cost?
Crating prices vary depending on materials, size, and complexity. On average:
| Item Type | Approx. Cost |
|---|---|
| Artwork (small) | $120–$250 |
| Glass tabletop | $200–$400 |
| Large mirror | $180–$350 |
| Antique furniture | $250–$600 |
| Electronics | $150–$300 |
Custom crating is more expensive but significantly safer — especially for rare or high-value belongings.
How Movers Decide If Crating Is Necessary
Professional movers assess crating needs by evaluating:
- Fragility
- Value
- Weight distribution
- Shape and stability
- Distance of move
- Insurance requirements
At United Local Movers, our team does a full walkthrough — virtual or in-person — to identify items requiring crating before moving day.
Why Skipping Crating Can Be a Costly Mistake
Customers often skip crating because they assume it’s unnecessary or too expensive. But skipping it can lead to:
- Thousands of dollars in damage
- Insurance denial
- Extended claims disputes
- Loss of irreplaceable items
Crating is cheaper than replacing a broken $3,000 glass table or damaged artwork.
How to Know If Your Item Needs Crating: A Simple Checklist
Ask yourself these questions:
- Would I be upset if this item broke?
- Is the item fragile, heavy, or uniquely shaped?
- Would I have trouble replacing it?
- Does it have glass, stone, or delicate components?
- Is the item worth over $1,000?
- Is it an antique or collectible?
If you answered “yes” to any question — consider crating.
Final Guidance
Crating isn’t just for museums or luxury moves — it’s a practical, protective solution for any fragile or valuable item. Understanding when it’s required versus recommended helps you avoid unnecessary damage, claims, and repair costs.
If you want expert guidance and professional custom crating services, get your quote at UnitedLocalMovers.com. Our team ensures your valuables are protected with the care they deserve.
