Packing fragile items is one of the biggest stressors when it comes to moving. Protecting these breakables takes planning and attention to detail, from cherished heirlooms, delicate glassware, and expensive electronics. Boxes get jostled, dropped, and stacked during a move, making fragile items vulnerable to damage.
That’s why this ultimate guide to packing fragile items safely is here to help. We’ll cover everything you need to know, whether you’re handling the packing yourself or thinking about hiring professionals.
Start With the Right Supplies and a Plan
If you decide to pack your fragile belongings yourself, take a moment to get organized before diving in. A little planning goes a long way when dealing with delicate items.
Start by gathering sturdy boxes in different sizes. Smaller boxes are better for heavy or delicate items since they won’t get overloaded. Dish packs (those with built-in dividers) are perfect for glassware and plates. You’ll also want bubble wrap, clean packing paper, strong tape, and markers for labeling. Skip the newspaper; ink can transfer and damage your items.
Next, take inventory of what needs packing. Group similar items together so you can pack more efficiently and keep things organized along the way.
How To Pack Your Fragile Belongings
Packing fragile items is all about the details. Each item requires special care, whether you’re packing plates or artwork. Let’s take a closer look at the best ways to protect your most delicate belongings.
Plates & Fine China
Exercise caution when packing plates, especially fine china or antique dishware. Begin by wrapping each plate individually in bubble wrap, and secure it with tape. Carefully stack regular plates in a box and cushion the sides.
However, you’ll want to stand fine china or porcelain plates vertically (like records) inside the box, rather than stacking them flat. Doing so minimizes the risk of chipping and cracking. Use specialty china boxes for added security, which come with dividers that keep plates separated and protected.
Always use plenty of crumpled packing paper at the bottom of any box, between each plate, and at the top to create a cushion around all sides. Pack any particularly large or unusually shaped items (such as decorative plates) in their own box or double-box them for maximum protection.
Glassware & Stemware
Packing delicate glassware, such as wine glasses, stemware, and glass vases, requires some extra thought. You want to prevent the items from rubbing together and creating pressure points that could lead to cracks or breaks. Wrap each glass separately in bubble wrap, securing the wrap with tape.
You’ll want to fill the space around the hollow stem with crumpled packing paper to help the wine glass retain its shape and prevent collapsing under pressure. Use a sturdy box with dividers, allowing the box to independently hold each piece, preventing movement during transit.
If you don’t have dividers, wrap each glass or piece in several layers of bubble wrap and pack them tightly so they can’t shift. Consider double-boxing them for added protection when wrapping larger glass items.
Electronics & Gadgets
Electronics, such as TVs, laptops, and audio equipment are more than just delicate. Often, they have fragile wiring and intricate components that need careful handling. The item’s original packaging is the best option if you still have it.
Most manufacturers design the packaging to protect the item, and it usually includes foam inserts or molded pieces that secure the item and absorb shock. Wrap the item in a bulky layer of bubble wrap if you don’t have the original box. Ensure you cover all sides, and neatly coil the cords with anti-static materials and tape them together.
You may want to invest in a specialized box or moving blanket when packing larger electronics, such as flat-screen TVs or home entertainment systems. These are more costly but designed to protect large, fragile items during transport. It’s important to place any electronics in a box that is just big enough, with enough padding, so they don’t have room to shift.
Lamps and Light Fixtures
Due to their delicate nature and intricate parts, lamps and light fixtures require special attention during a move. Begin by disassembling each piece, removing bulbs and any detachable parts. Wrap lamp bases and any fragile components in bubble wrap or soft cloth to protect them from bumps and scratches. Pay extra attention to delicate features, such as the neck of the lamp or the light fixture’s wiring.
Pack lampshades separately in boxes that fit snugly to avoid bending or denting. Use sturdy boxes or moving blankets for larger fixtures to protect them further.
Mirrors, Artwork, and Picture Frames
Mirrors and framed artwork are just as delicate as glassware. Start by casing the frame with bubble wrap and cover the edges well. Then, cover the entire piece with packing paper, and finally, add another layer of bubble wrap or a moving blanket for larger pieces.
If possible, place the wrapped artwork or mirror in a specialized picture box, providing extra protection and a snug fit. Use custom crating for particularly valuable or large items, such as framed paintings. Long-distance moving companies in Milwaukee, like Capitol North American, often offer this service.
Appliances, Keepsakes, and Musical Instruments
Irregularly shaped items need the same care as glassware or electronics. Always wrap holiday ornaments and sentimental keepsakes individually with soft tissue or packing paper to avoid scratches or breakage. Boxes with dividers—such as cell boxes or egg cartons—keep smaller items separated and secure. These are ideal for delicate seasonal pieces that carry emotional value.
Clean and dry small appliances, such as coffee machines or toasters before packing. Disassemble any removable parts and coil cords neatly, securing them with tape or twist ties. Thoroughly cover each appliance in bubble wrap and use extra padding on all sides of the box to keep them stable during transport.
A hard case offers the best protection if you’re moving musical instruments, such as violins, flutes, or ukuleles. Wrap the instrument in a soft cloth, followed by a thick layer of bubble wrap. Place it in a well-padded box and make sure not to stack anything on top of it during the move.
Pack, Label, and Load With Care
Clearly label your boxes after packing your fragile items. Write “FRAGILE” in bold markings on multiple sides of each box to ensure everyone handling your items knows to take extra care. Additionally, don’t forget to indicate the proper orientation, such as “This Side Up,” to guarantee you position the box upright when movers load your items on the truck.
Ensure Your Fragile Items Arrive Safely
This ultimate guide to safely packing fragile items shows that protecting delicate belongings is more manageable than it seems. Each step prevents damage and guarantees your items arrive in one piece, whether selecting the right materials or using smart packing strategies. You can confidently tackle your most fragile items with a little preparation and care.
Capitol North American is here to help if you’d prefer to leave the packing to the professionals. Our trusted full-service moving company brings the tools, experience, and precision to handle your most delicate belongings. We know how to pack your belongings right and get them there safely, from antiques and electronics to glassware and artwork. Let us take the stress out of your move.
