February 23, 2024 Posted in Moving Essentials
Hannah Michaelson

Hannah is a freelance relocation writer from NYC that has become an expert on packing and unpacking.

The Role of Moving Blankets in a Cross-Country Move

Furniture blankets play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and protection of belongings during a cross-country relocation. These sturdy, padded covers not only shield furniture and delicate items from scratches and dents but also provide a cushion against the jolts and vibrations of long-distance transportation. Cross-country moving blankets are versatile and durable – they’re an indispensable tool for a smooth relocation.

Two piles of furniture covers in a truck overlay
Furniture moving blankets are vital for safeguarding belongings during relocation

What Are the Challenges of Cross-Country Moves?

Relocation to a new state presents unique challenges compared to a local relocation. The extended distance increases the likelihood of encountering diverse issues such as weather conditions, road hazards, and prolonged jostling and vibrations during shipping in a relocation truck.

These factors can significantly affect the condition of your possessions upon arrival to your new home. Planning and executing a relocation requires proper organization, quality packing materials, and a well-planned packing schedule to ensure that your belongings have adequate protection during long-distance transit.

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Risks to Belongings During Long-Distance Transit

The primary concern during long-distance relocations is the potential damage to your belongings. Items can be subjected to scratches, dents, or breakages due to constant movement. Delicate items are particularly vulnerable. Furniture, packed electronics, and fragile objects need special attention to prevent damage from the rigors of a lengthy journey, including bumps, sudden stops, or shifts in cargo.

The Need for Extra Long-Distance Move Protection

Given these risks, it’s evident that extra protection is crucial during a cross-country relocation. Relocation blankets, also known as furniture covers, become indispensable in this context. They provide a robust barrier against friction, impact, and environmental factors.
Padding and cushioning for cross-country moves minimize the risk of damage caused by constant motion and external pressures. That’s why furniture covers are vital for safeguarding your belongings, making them a key component in any packing strategy and ensuring that your items arrive in the same condition they left.

a relocation truck parked in the driveway overlay
How will you ensure your items survive their journey? Furniture covers are the key

The Versatility and Benefits of Using Moving Blankets for Moving Cross-Country

Shipping blankets – another name for furniture covers – are remarkably versatile tools for efficient relocation. Their design caters to protecting a wide array of items, from bulky furniture to delicate electronics. These covers are made from durable, thick fabric, usually a blend of polyester and cotton, which ensures they can withstand the rigors of long-distance travel.

Their resilience against tears and punctures makes them reusable, offering long-term value beyond a single relocation. Additionally, these are not just limited to relocating to a new city. They can be used for storage or even as protective coverings during home renovations.

A Blanket Offers All-in-One Protection for a Wide Range of Items

Shipping covers serve as an all-in-one solution for protecting a diverse range of items. Whether it’s a glass tabletop, a wooden dresser, or electronic equipment, these covers provide a protective shield against scratches, dents, and other forms of damage.

Their thick padding absorbs shocks and vibrations, which is especially crucial for fragile items. Unlike bubble wrap or foam, these blankets can be easily wrapped around objects of any shape, offering a snug fit and comprehensive protection.

brown sofa overlay
Covers are great for all your furniture but will also work for any other household items

Types of Relocation Blankets That Long-Distance Movers Use

Hired movers, such as the Cross Country Moving Company team, typically utilize various types of furniture covers to cater to different relocation needs. The choice of blanket often depends on the nature of the items being transported. The most common types include heavy-duty covers for valuable and fragile items and more economical options for less delicate belongings.

Heavy-Duty Blanket for Valuables

Heavy-duty relocation covers are the go-to choice for protecting valuable and extremely fragile items. These are characterized by thick, dense padding and durable fabric, often a high-quality blend of polyester and cotton. They offer superior protection against impacts, scratches, and environmental elements like dust and moisture.

The robust construction of heavy-duty covers makes them ideal for safeguarding antiques, electronics, and other sensitive items. Their ability to absorb shocks and vibrations is crucial in preventing damage to these valuables during the bumps and jostles of a long journey.

Economy Option for Less Delicate Belongings

For everyday items that are not overly fragile but still require protection, economy relocation covers are a practical and cost-effective option that won’t affect your relocation budget so much. These are lighter and thinner than their heavy-duty counterparts but provide adequate protection against scratches and minor impacts.

Made from a blend of less dense fabrics, they are ideal for wrapping clothes, linens, and non-fragile kitchen items. While they may not offer the same level of protection as heavy-duty covers, they are sufficient for items that do not need extensive cushioning and are an excellent choice for those seeking to protect their belongings without incurring significant costs.

Piles of moving blankets and boxes in a relocation truck overlay
Should you opt for a heavy-duty or economy option? Depends on what you're packing

Where to Get Moving Blankets?

Acquiring furniture covers for your cross-country relocation is straightforward, with several accessible options. One of the most common sources of this packing material is your relocation company. Many relocation companies offer these covers for rent or sale, providing convenience if you’re already utilizing their services. Renting can be a cost-effective choice, especially if you need the covers for one-time use.

If you prefer to purchase your own, home improvement stores and relocation supply shops are excellent places to start. They typically have a range of covers, from economy to heavy-duty options, catering to different needs and budgets. Online retailers are another viable option, offering a vast selection.

Lastly, for those on a tight budget, second-hand stores or online marketplaces can be a treasure trove for finding used furniture covers at a fraction of the cost. This option is not only economical but also ensures your materials are environmentally friendly, as it promotes the reuse of packing materials.

Proper Usage and Packing Techniques You Should Implement

When preparing for a relocation, especially one that spans across the country, understanding and applying proper packing techniques is crucial for the safety and security of your belongings. Furniture covers, an essential tool in this process, require careful use to maximize their protective capabilities.

Whether you’re wrapping a delicate heirloom or a sturdy piece of furniture, the way you use these covers can significantly impact the condition in which your items arrive at their new home. In the following sections, we will delve into the specifics of how to effectively wrap and secure your belongings using this relocation supply, along with additional relocation tips on safeguarding your most fragile and valuable items during relocation.

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How to Wrap and Secure Belongings

Start by selecting the appropriate blanket for the item. Lay the blanket flat and place the item in the center, ensuring that it’s completely covered by folding the blanket over it. Wrap the blanket tightly around the item, making sure it conforms to its shape. Secure the blanket in place with packing tape, being careful not to place tape directly on the item to prevent damage. Finally, label the wrapped items, especially if they are fragile, to ensure careful handling.

Additional Tips on Protecting Fragile and Valuable Items

For extremely delicate items, consider double wrapping with two covers for added protection. Utilize corner guards with covers for items like framed art or mirrors. When loading the truck, be mindful to place fragile and valuable items in a way that they do not bear the weight of heavier objects. Also, use soft materials like bubble wrap or crumpled paper to fill any gaps in the boxes containing fragile items wrapped in covers, providing an extra layer of cushioning.
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Combine furniture covers with bubble wrap for extra protection

Movers From Reliable Cross-Country Moving Companies Often Use Moving Blankets During the Relocation

Professional movers from a reputable cross-country moving company understand the importance of safeguarding belongings during transit. One of their go-to relocation hacks for ensuring the safety of items, big and small, is a relocation blanket.

These robust, padded covers are indispensable in their toolkit. The expertise of these professionals in effectively using furniture covers can significantly reduce the risk of damage, ensuring that your possessions are delivered in the same condition as they were packed.

The Benefits of Relocating With Professional Cross-Country Movers

Choosing a relocation company to help with your cross-country journey offers numerous benefits that can make your experience smoother and more efficient. Here are some key advantages you should keep in mind when deciding whether or not you need movers:

  • Expert packing and handling – professional movers are skilled in packing techniques and handling various types of items, ensuring everything is securely wrapped.
  • Stress reduction – relocating with professionals takes a significant burden off your shoulders, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your journey.
  • Time-saving – professionals handle the logistics and execution of the move, saving you valuable time.
    Insurance and liability – reputable companies offer insurance options to protect your belongings during transit.
  • Access to the right equipment – movers have the necessary tools and materials, including furniture covers, to protect your belongings.
  • Experience with long-distance logistics – professional movers have experience in navigating the complexities of cross-country relocations, including route planning and dealing with unforeseen challenges.
  • Reliability and accountability – a professional company provides a level of reliability and accountability that is difficult to achieve when relocating on your own.

Reach Out to Cross Country Moving Company – We Offer Outstanding Cross-Country Moving Services

Our long-distance moving company is committed to delivering top-notch cross-country moving service, ensuring your belongings are handled with utmost care and efficiency. We offer a comprehensive range of long-distance moving services, including secure transportation, meticulous handling, storage services, and even expert packing assistance – we prioritize your satisfaction and peace of mind.

Whether you’re relocating across states or coast-to-coast, trust Cross Country Moving Company to provide a seamless, reliable experience. Contact us today to get a free estimate for our service – it will be your first step towards a successful and hassle-free long-distance relocation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why Are Moving Blankets Essential for a Cross-Country Move?

A relocation blanket is essential for a cross-country move because it provides an additional layer of protection for your belongings. The extended journey and varied handling conditions expose items to potential damage, such as scratches, dents, or breakages. A blanket, with its thick padding, helps cushion and safeguard your possessions against these risks, ensuring they remain secure and intact throughout the transit.

How Do Moving Blankets Provide Extra Protection During Long-Distance Transit?

During long-distance transit, relocation covers provide extra protection by absorbing shocks and vibrations, which are common in extended journeys. They act as a barrier against jostling and shifting in a truck, thereby reducing the likelihood of scratches, dents, and other forms of damage to the wrapped items. Their padded material also shields belongings from dust, dirt, and minor impacts.

What Types of Items Can Be Protected Using Moving Blankets in a Cross-Country Move?

In a cross-country move, a blanket can protect a wide range of items. This includes furniture, electronics, appliances, artwork, and other delicate or bulky items. They are particularly useful for safeguarding items with surfaces prone to scratching or denting, such as wooden furniture or glass components.

Are Economy Moving Blankets Suitable for Fragile or Valuable Items During a Long-Distance Move?

Economy furniture covers, while cost-effective, are generally thinner and provide less padding compared to heavy-duty options. They are suitable for protecting non-fragile items or those less prone to damage. However, for highly fragile or valuable items, it’s advisable to use heavy-duty covers or supplement economy ones with additional protective materials, such as bubble wrap, to ensure adequate protection during a long-distance move.

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