How to Safely Move LEGO® Sets When Moving Houses

Moving houses can be a stressful task, especially when it involves transporting delicate LEGO sets that you’ve spent countless hours building. Whether you're a collector or simply a fan, ensuring your LEGO sets arrive safely at your new home requires careful planning and the right materials. Here's a comprehensive guide to packing and moving your LEGO sets, featuring saran wrap, bubble wrap, and some clever packing techniques.

1. Gather the Essentials

Before you start packing, make sure you have the following supplies on hand:

  • Saran wrap (plastic wrap)
  • Bubble wrap
  • Packing tape
  • Sturdy cardboard boxes or plastic bins
  • Packing peanuts or crumpled paper for cushioning

2. Prepping Your LEGO Sets

To ensure the safety of your LEGO sets during transit, preparation is key. Depending on the size and fragility of the set, you'll want to adjust your approach.

For Fragile Builds

Fragile LEGO creations, such as detailed custom builds or intricate models, require extra care. Start by stuffing bubble wrap inside hollow or delicate sections of the build. This internal cushioning helps prevent collapses or internal movement during transport. Once stuffed, wrap the entire build in saran wrap to hold the pieces together tightly.

For Modular Buildings

Modular LEGO buildings, like those from the Creator Expert series, are best packed in separate modules. Disassemble the building into its modular components, then individually wrap each module with saran wrap. This prevents small sections from shifting or detaching. After wrapping, layer each module with bubble wrap for added protection before placing them in boxes.

3. Wrapping Large Builds

Large LEGO sets, such as UCS Star Wars models or Technic creations, often have intricate details and large surface areas. Begin by wrapping the entire set in saran wrap to secure all external pieces. This step ensures small, delicate parts stay intact. Next, cover the saran-wrapped build in a layer of bubble wrap for cushioning. The double layer of protection minimizes the risk of damage from bumps or pressure during the move.

4. Packing LEGO Sets

Once your LEGO sets are wrapped and ready, it’s time to pack them in boxes.

  • Choose the Right Box: Use sturdy cardboard boxes or plastic bins that are large enough to hold the wrapped sets with some extra space for cushioning material.
  • Cushion the Base: Line the bottom of the box with packing peanuts, crumpled paper, or a thick layer of bubble wrap.
  • Place Carefully: Arrange the wrapped sets inside the box, ensuring there’s minimal movement. For modular buildings, stack the modules in order, separated by layers of bubble wrap.
  • Fill Gaps: Fill any empty spaces with packing peanuts or crumpled paper to prevent the sets from shifting during transit.

5. Label and Handle with Care

After sealing the boxes with packing tape, label them as “Fragile” and “LEGO Sets” to ensure careful handling. If you’re hiring movers, inform them about the delicate contents so they can treat the boxes with extra care.

Bonus Tips

  • Photograph Before Packing: Take photos of your LEGO sets before packing them. This can serve as a reference for rebuilding in case any parts come loose.
  • Pack Smaller Sets Together: Group smaller LEGO sets or minifigures in individual zip-lock bags and place them in a shared box for efficiency.
  • Transport Yourself: If possible, transport the most valuable or fragile sets in your personal vehicle rather than in the moving truck.

Final Thoughts

With proper wrapping techniques and careful packing, your LEGO sets can make the journey to your new home safely. By using saran wrap and bubble wrap strategically, you’ll not only secure the structural integrity of your builds but also ensure they remain pristine throughout the move. Happy packing—and may your LEGO creations continue to bring joy in your new home!