Lampshades and lamps can be large, fragile, and awkward, making them difficult to pack and move. If not packed properly, shades can easily be dented, bent or torn, depending on whether they are hard or soft-lined shades. Lamps that are breakable should also be handled with care. Below are a few packing suggestions.
Before packing, it’s also a good idea to number each lampshade and lamp, to make it easier to match lamps and shades after unpacking. Smaller parts, including harps and finials (decorative lamp tops) should also be numbered if they are removed from the lamps when packing.
Put the lampshade in clean plastic bag and close the bag with a twist tie. Put some bubble wrap or clean, crumpled packing paper in a slightly larger box, at least an inch larger on all sides. Then put the bagged lampshade in the box. Put enough crumpled packing paper in the corners of the box to keep the shade from shifting. You can also put bubble wrap, packing paper or a piece of cardboard on top of the shade. Do not place anything else on top of the shade, not even soft items such as linens. Close each box and tape with packing tape.
To save space, you may be able to carefully nest shades, putting smaller shades inside larger ones. Bag each shade in clean plastic and put packing paper between each shade in the “nest” to prevent them from shifting and damaging each other.
Fragile lamps should also be well-wrapped in several layers of bubble wrap. Secure the bubble wrap well with packing tape. Put each lamp in a separate box with more bubble wrap or packing paper to prevent them from shifting. This first box can be put into another slightly larger box lined in bubble wrap for extra “insurance”. Seal each lamp box with packing tape.
More care should be taken with antique lamps and vintage shades that are irreplaceable and/or have sentimental value. We recommend moving these cherished items yourself in your car if possible, instead of in a moving van. Old, brittle lampshades and lamps may not survive a ride in the moving van, regardless of how well they are packed.
If you do need new lampshades after a move, please bring us your lamps and shades for the best fitting new lampshades. We also sell finials, harps and other lamp parts if anything is missing. Some damaged lamps can be repaired by replacing broken parts, but we do not weld, solder or refinish broken lamp bases.
After a move, please let us know how we can help you. We hope you enjoy your new home!