If you’re packing fragile items for a household move, you probably worry about them breaking in transit. However, with careful handling and a few tricks, even fragile objects can be packed and moved without damage.

1. Choose the Appropriate Carton

Selecting the ideal moving box and supplies is essential when moving fragile items. Use clean, sturdy boxes. Pack heavy, delicate items in the smallest carton possible. Small boxes are easier to handle and provide less space for the item to roll. Add additional padding to the extra space for protection.

You can protect glasses and stemware using specialty cartons like glass packing kits designed with corrugated dividers. Expert movers will likely have these specialized boxes on hand, but you can purchase dividers for standard boxes if needed.

Placing your TV or monitor in its original packaging provides optimal protection. Remove the cables and protect them with bubble wrap if you don’t have the packaging anymore. Then, use bubble wrap to protect the screens, and top that with a moving blanket or plush towel.

Tape the bottom of any box containing delicate items for added support.

2. Select Proper Packing Materials

You will need a variety of packing materials to protect your fragile items. 

  • Packing peanuts – Cushion your fragile items by filling the empty spaces in the box with packing peanuts. 
  • Bubble wrap – Each bubble is filled with air and encased in thick plastic, so wrapping items in bubble wrap will prevent breakage.
  • Packing paper – Use packing paper to protect the exterior of fragile items and fill empty spaces inside them.
  • Padded inserts – Wrap larger items in this special padding

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3. Wrap Your Fragiles

If you’re packing something delicate, wrap each component separately. For example, you should wrap a teapot and its lid independently. Likewise, you should individually wrap each glass. Wrapping may add more time to the process, but it’s worth it.

4. Prepare the Box

Place layers of cushioning material on the bottom of the box. For instance, use packing peanuts or crumpled packing paper as a base layer to cushion the shock.

5. Place Heavy Items First

Place the heaviest item in the box first, followed by the lighter, more fragile items at the top.

Also, use packing paper and bubble wrap to ensure no extra space inside the box. This is especially important to prevent items from moving around and breaking inside the box.

6. Label Every Box as Fragile

An essential part of packing fragile items is proper labeling. Put the word “Fragile” on all sides of the box. You can purchase labels labeled fragile or use a Sharpie. Consider using colored tape on boxes containing fragile items as well. Place the boxes containing fragile items in a designated area for your professional movers. Then, let the movers know when they arrive that you have a section of moving cartons containing fragile items.

7. Allow Plenty of Time

When faced with the daunting task of moving, rushing through the packing process can be tempting. Packing fragile items carefully, however, is a must.

8. Let the Movers Pack for You

Professional movers have the experience to pack and handle your fragile items. Allow them to handle the packing and transport for you for a stress-free move.