How to Pack Lamps for Moving

Lamps come in a variety of styles, each serving unique functions and enhancing the aesthetic appeal of your home. From floor lamps to table lamps and hanging lamps, each type has specific features and packing needs.

Some of the trickiest items to pack are lamps, given their fragile parts and unusual shapes. If you’re wondering how to pack a lamp for moving, this guide will walk you through every step, ensuring your lamp arrives at its destination intact and ready to light up your new space.

By the way, we’re Bellhop Movers, experts at local and long-distance moves. We’d love to help with affordable moves as part of your moving experience. And if you are running short on time to pack those lamps, Bellhop offers packing and unpacking help too. You can book us as part of a move or independently.

Gather the Packing Supplies for Moving Lamps

Essential Packing Materials for Lamps

Before you start packing your lamp, you need to gather the right supplies. You’ll need sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, packing tape, and cushioning materials like air pillows. Choose high-quality packing materials to ensure your lamp is well-protected.

If you’re moving a particularly large or valuable lamp, consider specialty moving boxes designed specifically for lamps. And perhaps consult with your movers.

Where to Source Quality Packing Supplies for Packing Lamps

You can find packing supplies at hardware stores, moving companies, or online retailers. U-Haul offers large upright boxes that may be perfect. Home Depot carries moving supplies. Look for durable, double-walled boxes and anti-static bubble wrap.

Budget-Friendly Alternatives for Packing Lamps

If you’re on a budget, you can use towels, blankets, or even clothing as padding. Just make sure these items are clean and free of debris that could scratch or damage your lamp. You might also find free boxes at grocery stores or recycling centers for smaller lamps.

7 Tips for Packing Lamps for Moving

1. Labeling Will Make Assembly Later a No-Brainer

Blue painters tape is your best friend. Label the bubble wrapped lamp, its components (detachable power cords, bulbs, disassembled arms, poles and bases) and the lamp’s moving box as you go for easy reassembly in your new home.

2. Lamp Surfaces Can Require Special Attention

Glass lamps need extra wrapping and care to avoid pressure on the box in the moving truck. Always label with instructions for the movers. ‘Place on Top! Glass.’

Wood bases: packing tape can pull off varnish and other surface decoration. Wrap first with tissue paper or bubble wrap. Alternatively use painters tape which peels off without residue.

Antique lamps: they may have dangling chain pulls and old cords. Wrap and secure so they can’t move and damage the lamp or its value.

3. Hanging Lamps Can Be Dangerous!

Turn off electrical power at the panel box before attempting to unwire and take down.

4. Box Bulbs Together after Labeling

Today’s long-lasting (and more expensive) bulbs deserve to move with you. Be mindful of different bulb types. See our section on packing bulbs.

5. Lampshades Deserve Special Attention

What could go wrong?! Creases from not enough protection in the box. Creases from not labeling the box when it was smashed by a heavier box on top in the truck. Save yourself the cost and  hours of searching for just the right replacement. Otherwise, you see the crease each time your eye is attracted to the lighted shade. I do in one of mine.

6. Reassemble Wisely in your New Home

If you packed multiple lamp components from different lamps in the same box, start a separate pile for each lamp and don’t start assembling any until you’ve confirmed each part is properly assigned to its lamp.

7. Consider Decluttering / Donating

Lamps require special attention, wrapping and boxing, all which add cost and time when moving. Perhaps that bedside table won’t go with your new bed set. Or you’re tired of so many bulb types. Spare the cost and time before packing. Thrift stores love lamps in good working condition.

How to Pack any Lamp Securely for Moving

Disconnect and Clean Your Lamp

Start by unplugging the lamp and letting it cool. Remove the lampshade, light bulb, and any detachable parts which can help prevent scratches during the move. Clean the lamp base and shade with a soft cloth to remove dust and grime,

Handle Lamps with Delicate Parts Carefully

If your lamp has delicate or ornate parts, wrap these separately in bubble wrap. This step is crucial for lamps with intricate designs or fragile materials like porcelain or stained glass. Label these wrapped parts to avoid confusion during reassembly.

Remove and Store Light Bulbs Safely

Light bulbs are incredibly fragile and should always be packed separately. Wrap each bulb in bubble wrap or packing paper and place them in a small, sturdy box. Label this box clearly and keep it with other delicate items.

Electrical Cords Deserve Care Too

To prevent tangling and damage, neatly coil the electric cord and secure it with a twist tie or rubber band. Don’t use zip ties: you may accidentally cut through the electric cord later. Avoid wrapping the cord around the lamp itself, as this can cause scratches or breakage. Wrap the plug ends of the cord in bubble wrap to prevent scratching. If the lamp has a detachable cord, pack it in a zip lock bag to prevent damage if it moves.

Choose the Right Box for Different Lamp Types

For smaller lamps, a standard moving box should work. However, tall or unusually shaped lamps may require custom boxes or the use of multiple boxes. Always choose a box that allows at least two inches of space around the lamp for cushioning. A taller ‘clothes closet’ box available at U-Haul or your movers may be a good choice for tall table lamps.

Wrap with Bubble Wrap

Begin by wrapping the lamp base in bubble wrap, securing it with tape. For extra protection, add a layer of packing paper. Place the wrapped lamp in a box lined with cushioning materials. Fill any gaps around the lamp with crumpled paper, pillows air bags to prevent shifting during transit.

Special Care for Lamp Shades When Moving

Shades are expensive and each is unique. I packed the custom lampshade of my favorite lamp quickly and didn’t add enough bubble wrap to keep it from shifting in the box. Now I am reminded each day with the crease in the shade. Don’t do what I did!

How to Pack Floor Lamps for Moving

Floor lamps are versatile lighting fixtures that provide both ambient and task lighting. They come in various designs, each with its own set of characteristics.

The packing instructions are much the same. Arms and poles typically disassemble. Wrap and label each part. It’s OK to pack several from different lamps in the same box (after labeling).

Pack the Base: The base of the lamp is usually the heaviest part. Wrap it in bubble wrap and place it at the bottom of a sturdy box. Use padding materials to cushion it well. You can combine bases in the same box, just be careful about weight.

How to Pack a Table Lamp for Moving

Table and desktop lamps are usually more compact, making them easier to pack. Place the wrapped lamp in a small box, using cushioning materials to fill any gaps. Find the right-sized box for the shade. Tall, decorative lamps will require taller boxes, available from moving companies and U-Haul.

If the lamp has small components or detachable parts, pack these separately in small, labeled bags. Place these bags in the same box as the lamp to keep everything together.

How to Pack Hanging Lamp for Moving

Follow our general instructions but first:

• Disconnect Safely: Turn off the power at the panel breaker box to avoid any risk of electric shock. Use a ladder, not a chair. Carefully disconnect the lamp from the ceiling or wall. These can be unwieldy and it’s easy to lose your balance.
• For larger hanging lamps, you might need a custom crate or a reinforced box, and help. If the lamp is particularly valuable or ornate, consider professional packing services to ensure maximum protection. Once in your new home, reassemble and test with a temporary power source before remounting.

How to Pack Lamp Bulbs for Moving

Bulbs have longer life so it’s smart to keep them. Wrap each spare bulb in bubble wrap or packing paper and place them in a sturdy box. Label the box clearly and keep it with other fragile items.

Lighting Bulb Differences and How to Pack Them

Understanding the differences among common types of bulbs—incandescent, CFL (Compact Fluorescent Lamp), LED (Light Emitting Diode), and halogen bulbs—is key to packing them effectively.

• Compact Fluorescent Lamps (CFLs) contain a small amount of mercury, which can be hazardous if the bulb breaks. Use multiple layers of bubble wrap and place them in separate boxes to prevent breakage. Consider placing the box in a plastic bag for more protection. Label as Hazardous: Clearly label the box to indicate its hazard.
• LED Bulbs can be packed in groups if there is sufficient cushioning between them.
• Halogen Bulbs: Most likely to burn you, so wait before disassembling. Use bubble wrap to wrap each bulb.

How to Safely Transport Lamps When Moving

Where to Place the Lamp in the Moving Truck

When loading your lamp into the moving vehicle, place it upright and secure it between other items to prevent tipping. Avoid placing heavy boxes on top of the lamp box. If possible, keep the lamp with other fragile items to ensure it gets gentle handling.

Avoiding Common Moving Mistakes for Lamps

Common mistakes include placing lamps in areas where they can be easily crushed or knocked over. Always place the lamp box in a secure, upright, stable position, avoid stacking it too high. Ensure the box is labeled “Fragile” to alert movers to handle it with care.

Using Movers vs. DIY Transport

If you’re hiring professional movers, inform them about the fragile nature of your lamp. They often have specialized packing techniques and equipment for delicate items.

DIY moves depend upon you! Avoid casually wrapping in a blanket and placing unsecured on the back seat, even for a move across town!

This goes double for long-distance moves. If you’re moving long-distance from Atlanta to Houston, for example – that’s a lot of miles for your lamp to get broken.

How to Reassemble Lamps in Your New Home

Repeat our instructions going backwards. Rolling up the bubble wrap will make it easier to save or donate to a thrift store. Throw out the crinkled paper as keeping may attract insects.

If you packed multiple lamp components from different lamps together in the same box, start a separate pile for each lamp and don’t start assembling any until you’ve confirmed each part is properly assigned to its lamp.

Hanging Lamps: Before hanging the lamp, test it by connecting it to a temporary power source. This step ensures that it’s working correctly and allows you to address any issues without the hassle and hazard of reinstalling it multiple times.

Some Final Thoughts about Packing Lamps for Moving

We prepared this guide because lamps are special and proper packing can be neglected in the bigger story of a move. If you need more info to help plan your move, we have plenty of moving tips. Please reach out to your friendly Bellhop Movers to coordinate local moves and long-distance moving services to just about everywhere.