Moving Your Model Collection
Moving your collection of precious tabletop miniatures during a house move is something that should not be taken lightly. Models can represent a huge investment in money and time, and so it's important that you spend a little time preparing them for transportation to ensure their safety and protect against damages. Whilst any good removals company will take care of your boxes, learning to pack properly will give you piece of mind and help to make your move just that much less stressful on the day. This guide will help you to create a solid carry case, which can be used for moving day as well as everyday model storage.
Choosing Your Case
Choosing your case is a matter of finances, as the more you invest the better quality the case. You could purchase a dedicated model box, but these boxes can be expensive and often you are paying for the label. If the brand isn't something you are too worried about, then opt for either a flat pack cardboard box with a lid or an aluminium flight case. The latter is your best option, as you can buy these cases with keypad locks for added security, and they are incredibly hardwearing.
Cardboard boxes certainly work as well; however, they are much less durable and are prone to damp damage. To help with transportation, it's a good idea to state on the box which way up it should be transported using a sticky label. This will stop unnecessary movement within the foam case, which can damage more fragile components.
Creating the Core
The part of the travel case that will protect the models is the foam core. You can use flight foam for this, which is a versatile material that can be cut and sculpted to house your individual models. Just buy a thick piece of foam that is deeper than the depth of the model and slightly smaller than the size of the case, along with a thinner piece that can be used as the backing. Lie the models down however you want them and draw around each one, allowing for a little extra space to avoid catching sharper components, such as rifles and spears, on the foam.
Cut out the sections using a sharp hobby knife and a cutting board, and then stick the back to the foam sheet using polyvinyl acetate (PVA) glue. Try not to go overboard with the glue, as it will sink into the foam. Layer up the various foam sheets and you are good to go.