Blank cards on a table with envelopes and a candle overlay
Posted in How-to, Moving Tips&Tricks on November 8, 2023
Georgia Michaelson

Born and raised in St. Louis, Georgia Michaelson is a content writer with a specialty in moving and traveling. Her tips can help you relocate without a fuss

How to Pack Candles – Best Practices for a Flicker-Free Move

Moving can be a difficult task, and when it comes to delicate items, ensuring they arrive at the new home unscathed requires careful consideration and packing expertise. Here is a detailed guide on how to pack candles so you can ensure they remain flicker-free throughout the moving process. Say goodbye to broken wicks and melted wax disasters, and say hello to a stress-free, illuminated transition to a new home.

Packing a candle for a move requires careful planning. Categorize and wrap each type individually using appropriate materials or enlist white glove movers for added expertise. Keep original packaging if possible and safeguard each partially used candle. Gel candles need extra care. Storing them in a storage unit is an option, but it ensures proper protection.

Why Candles Require Special Attention During Moves

A candle demands special attention during moves due to its inherent fragility, primarily stemming from its susceptibility to melting and breaking.

Unlike many other household items, candles are especially sensitive to temperature changes, making them prone to melting if exposed to excessive heat during transit.

Over 2 billion candles are sold in the world each year

Additionally, their slender and often delicate structures can easily break when subjected to pressure or impact, rendering them unusable at their destination. Moreover, a damaged candle has the potential to create a mess with other items in moving boxes, as melted wax can seep into nearby belongings, causing stains and damage. Therefore, it’s crucial to take extra precautions and learn how to secure candles in holders.

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Materials You Will Need

The first rule on how to wrap candles is that you’ll need a set of essential packing materials. These materials include bubble wrap, small boxes, packing paper, and tape. Bubble wrap provides cushioning to protect candles from impact and helps prevent breakage or relocation mistakes during transit.

Small boxes are ideal for organizing and separating candles, reducing the risk of them bumping into each other and causing damage. Packing paper serves as an additional protective layer, safeguarding from scratches and potential wax stains. Finally, strong packing tape secures the boxes and ensures that the candles remain in place throughout the relocation process.

Choosing the Right Packing Materials

When selecting different packaging materials, it’s crucial to prioritize options that won’t generate heat or cause melting. Candles are highly sensitive to temperature changes, and exposure to heat can result in a messy and damaged situation. Avoid using materials that could generate heat, such as plastic wrap or containers, as they may lead to candles softening or even melting during transit. Instead, opt for materials like bubble wrap or packing paper, which provide insulation without generating heat to create a temperature-neutral environment within the boxes.

Preparing a Packing Station

Creating a dedicated packaging station is a key step in the process of efficient packing. Choose a clean and spacious area where you can work comfortably without distractions. Lay out all supplies, including bubble wrap, packaging paper, small boxes, and tape, in an organized manner for easy access.

It’s essential to have a clear workspace to wrap and pack each candle individually, reducing the chances of overlooking any items or making mistakes during the wrapping process. This dedicated packaging station will not only streamline the packing process but also help maintain the integrity of the items as you prepare for the relocation.

Packing supplies
Gather all the necessary supplies

Categorizing Candles

Before you begin packing candles, it’s essential to categorize them by type, such as votive, pillar, or taper. Sorting the collection in this way is crucial because each type has unique characteristics and requires specific packaging methods. Votive candles, for example, are small and typically come in glass containers, making them prone to breakage if not handled carefully.

Pillar candles are thicker and more substantial, necessitating different protective measures. Taper candles, on the other hand, are tall and slender, which means they need special attention to prevent bending or breaking during the move. By categorizing the collection, you’ll be better prepared to pack appropriately and ensure their safe move.

Packing Pillar Candles

When packing pillar candles, it’s essential to take a methodical approach to prevent damage during the move. Begin by wrapping each pillar candle individually in a layer of packaging paper to shield them from potential scratches and wax stains. Place the wrapped ones into a small box, arranging them upright if possible. To prevent movement within the box, fill any gaps with crumpled packaging paper.

Seal the box securely with tape, ensuring the items won’t shift during transit, and label it clearly as “Pillar Candles” for easy identification. Store the box upright to avoid exerting pressure on the candles, which could lead to deformation or breakage during transportation.

Packing Votive and Tea Light Candles

For smaller votive and tea light candles that often come in containers, grouping them together is a wise approach. Group candles of the same size and place them in a small box or a shallow container, separating them with layers of packaging paper to prevent friction and breakage.

If the candles are loose without containers, consider placing them in small, individual ziplock bags to prevent them from moving and mixing with each other. Seal the box or container securely with tape and label it as “Votive and Tea Light Candles.” Ensure that it’s stored in a manner that minimizes the risk of crushing or damage during transit.

Packing Taper and Stick Candles

Taper and stick candles, with their tall and slender profiles, require special attention to prevent bending or breaking during the move. Begin by wrapping each taper or stick candle individually with a layer of bubble wrap or packaging paper. Ensure that the wrap is snug but not overly tight to avoid damaging the candles.

Group the wrapped candles together and secure them with a piece of tape or a rubber band to keep them in a bundle. Place the bundled taper candles in a long, narrow box, ensuring they fit snugly without much room for movement. Fill any gaps with packaging paper or bubble wrap to provide additional protection. Seal and label the box as “Taper Candles” or “Stick Candles.” Store the box upright to prevent bending or breakage during the move.

Candles burning in the dark
Different candle types require different packaging techniques

The Actual Packing Process – How to Pack Candles

When it comes to how to ship candles without melting, a careful and precise process can make all the difference in ensuring their safe transport. Here’s a breakdown of the actual steps.

Wrapping Individual Candles

To securely wrap each type of candle in bubble wrap or packaging paper, start by selecting the appropriate wrapping material for the candle’s size and shape. For pillar candles, wrap each one individually in a layer of packaging paper, ensuring that it covers the entire surface. Use additional layers if needed to provide adequate cushioning.

If you’re packing votive or tea light candles, group them by size and place them in a small box or shallow container with layers of packaging paper in between to prevent friction and breakage. Loose candles should be placed in small ziplock bags to keep them from moving and mixing with each other. For taper or stick candles, wrap each one individually with bubble wrap or packaging paper, securing the wrap with tape or rubber bands to keep them in a bundle.

Boxing the Candles

When it comes to placing the candles in boxes, it’s important to consider both weight and fragility. For pillar candles, put them in a small box, arranging them upright if possible. Fill any gaps with crumpled packaging paper to prevent movement within the box. For votive or tealight ones, place them in a small box or shallow container, making sure they fit snugly. Fill any gaps with additional packaging paper to prevent shifting during transit.

Taper and stick candles should be bundled together and placed in a long, narrow box. Use packaging paper or bubble wrap to fill gaps and provide support. Remember that overloading boxes can lead to damage – the key to how to store candles is to distribute them across multiple boxes if needed.

Labeling and Final Touches

Properly labeling boxes is essential for easy identification and handling during the move. Clearly label each box with its contents. Also, mark the boxes as fragile to alert movers or yourself to handle them with care. Add any final padding if necessary, ensuring that the candles are well-protected. Seal the boxes securely with tape, making sure they are stable and won’t open during transit. With these final touches, candles will be packed securely and ready for a flicker-free move.

Box labeled fragile
Make sure to label the boxes as fragile

Additional Tips and Tricks

In addition to the fundamental packing process, there are some extra precautions and packing tips to consider. One critical precaution is to avoid packaging candles with flammable items or substances. Candles are, by nature, fire hazards, and combining them with other flammable materials can pose a significant risk during transportation. Keep the candle collection well-separated from items like cleaning chemicals, paint thinners, or anything else that could ignite easily. It’s essential to prioritize safety when packaging to prevent accidents and ensure a smooth transition to your new home.

Seasonal Considerations

Seasonal considerations are particularly important when moving candles. Extreme temperatures, whether hot or cold, can have a significant impact on candles during transit. High temperatures can cause a candle to melt, while extremely cold temperatures can make wax more brittle and prone to cracking. To mitigate these issues, try to transport the collection in a climate-controlled environment, such as the interior of the vehicle rather than the moving truck. If that’s not possible, pack them in insulated boxes and consider placing them in the midst of other belongings to minimize exposure to temperature extremes.

Transporting the Candles

When it comes to transporting the packed candles, careful placement within the relocation truck is essential for maximum safety. Place the boxes on a stable surface, ideally secured against the truck’s interior walls, to prevent shifting during transit. Be sure to stack them in a way that avoids excessive weight on top of delicate candle boxes, reducing the risk of crushing or damage. Consider designating an area of the truck specifically for fragile items like candle boxes, using blankets or padding to create a protective barrier.

A thermometer in the snow
Extreme temperatures can disturb the integrity of any candle

Hire Movers and Streamline the Whole Process

When it comes to relocating, particularly for long-distance moves, hiring movers can significantly streamline the entire process, making it more efficient and less stressful. Many moving companies offer a range of long-distance moving services beyond simply loading and unloading belongings. White glove movers specialize in handling all items with the utmost care, employing techniques that minimize the risk of damage or breakage.

They can also offer packing services, ensuring that fragile and valuable items, including candles, are professionally packed to withstand the rigors of a long-distance move. Furthermore, a white glove moving company provides storage options, allowing you to securely stow away some of belongings if your new home isn’t quite ready for them. By opting for white glove moving services, you can reduce relocation stress and trust that your cherished items, including candles, will arrive safely and in pristine condition.

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Shining a Light on a Smooth and Stress-Free Move

The process of moving, whether it’s across town or long distance, involves numerous intricate details and considerations. From shipping the candle collection to safeguarding delicate possessions, the key is thorough planning and careful execution. Additionally, exploring the benefits of white glove moving services can alleviate many of the challenges associated with a move, offering specialized assistance and peace of mind. So, contact us at Long Distance Movers and allow us to melt away all your stress.

FAQ

Can I Pack Scented and Unscented Candles Together?

Yes, you can pack them together. However, consider wrapping each candle individually to prevent the scents from mingling, and make sure they are securely packed to avoid any damage during the relocation.

Should I Keep the Original Packaging?

Keeping the original packaging is advisable if available, as it’s designed to protect them. If you no longer have it, using appropriate packaging materials like bubble wrap and protection paper is essential.

What Do I Do With Partially Used Candles?

For partially used candles, it’s best to secure them with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent wax spills. Place them in a box or cushion them with packaging material to keep them from moving.

How Do I Pack Gel Candles?

Packaging gel candles can be tricky. Place them in a sturdy, leak-proof container or wrap them in plastic wrap to prevent leaking during transit. Ensure they are well-protected to prevent damage.

Can I Place Candles in a Storage Unit?

Yes, you can store your candle collection in a storage unit. Ensure they are packed securely in airtight containers or boxes to protect them from dust, temperature fluctuations, and pests.

How Long Before the Move Should I Pack My Candles?

It can be done a few days before the moving day, especially if you use them frequently. However, if you’re well-organized, you can pack them earlier to reduce last-minute stress.

Do I Need to Notify the Moving Company About Transporting Candles?

It’s a good practice to inform the moving company about transporting the candle collection, especially if they offer specific instructions or restrictions. This ensures they handle your belongings with care and safety in mind.

Can Candles Be Shipped Safely?

Yes, but it’s essential to use proper packaging to prevent damage. Ensure they are securely wrapped, and use a reputable shipping service that can handle fragile items.

What Should I Do if My Candles Melt or Break During the Move?

If your candles melt or break during the move, assess the damage. Salvage what you can and consider using them for decoration rather than lighting. Proper packaging can reduce the likelihood of such occurrences.

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