How to Pack Fragile Items for Shatterproof Results
You’ll need more than kid gloves to keep your items intact
- Scissors
- Label maker
- Marker
- Boxes
- Newspaper
- Packing peanuts
- Bubble wrap
- Tape
The last thing you want to deal with after moving is a box of broken belongings. Luckily, learning how to pack fragile items is a simple and foolproof way to protect your glassware, artwork, electronics, and more.
Fragile items are especially at risk during a move, especially if you’re moving cross-country. But have no fear: Our guide can help you learn how to pack your fragile items so they’ll remain in one piece throughout your journey.
Prevent fragile items like wine glasses and electronics from breaking during your move by wrapping and stuffing them with bubble wrap, using paper to fill gaps inside moving boxes, and padding the base of the box.
Label Boxes First
An essential moving tip is that labeling your boxes first will help you or your movers determine which rooms to put the boxes in in your new place and which boxes have breakable items. That way, everyone knows to pack and handle them with more care. You can use a label maker for this step or do it the old-fashioned way with a thick permanent marker. Be sure to boldly mark boxes with breakables as “fragile.”
Select the Right Size Box
Some fragile items will need specific-sized boxes to protect them during your move. Examples include lamps, TVs, and telescopes. You may think the more room the box provides, the better for your fragile items, but the opposite is true. The closer the box fits around its contents, the more secure your items. Each box should be large enough to fit your items and packing materials without allowing for shifting or movement.
Note that you don’t have to run to a shipping or hardware store to buy these boxes. In most cases, you can source used boxes from friends, family members, neighbors, or others on resale sites or social media.
Pad the Base of the Box
No matter what fragile items you are packing in the box, it’s important to cushion the base of the box with essential moving supplies like paper or bubble wrap. This step adds a line of defense if the box is bumped or jostled by preventing items like plates or vases from shifting around.
Wrap Items with Proper Packing Material
Photo: Portra / Digital Vision / Getty ImagesPrevent fragile items like wine glasses and electronics from breaking during your move by wrapping and stuffing them with bubble wrap, using paper to fill gaps inside moving boxes, and padding the base of the box. You can also use towels or moving blankets to fill in any gaps or double-wrap your belongings for added security.
Pack the Heaviest Items at the Bottom of the Box
If you’re packing multiple items in a box, start with the heaviest for more support. This method can prevent the box from becoming top-heavy and toppling over or collapsing in the middle. It will also protect smaller, lighter items by placing them toward the top. For example, if you’re packing kitchenware, you’d want to start with your beloved casserole dish at the bottom but place your well-wrapped coffee mugs at the top.
Secure the Bottom of a Box With Extra Tape
Be generous with the packing tape to make each box as secure as possible.
Follow these taping guidelines for best results:
Use heavy-duty packing tape for packing boxes.
Add a few strips of tape along where the cardboard meets.
Put tape in both directions for more support.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
Consider hiring a local moving company to help you pack and move items. Professional moving companies will know how to expertly move items with care, especially fragile items like TVs and antique furniture. You can choose a local moving company to pack your fragile items, load them onto a truck, and move them to your new location.
Frequently Asked Questions
Bubble wrap is better for moving since it can be cut to size, whereas dish foam comes in precut sheets that are harder to manipulate. However, if you’re packing items like dishes, wine glasses, picture frames, or mirrors, dish foam will protect them better. Ensure you measure your box beforehand so you know what size dish foam to purchase.
Bubble wrap acts as a soft barrier between your items and the edges of a moving box. The special wrapping consists of hundreds of tiny air-filled pockets encased in polyethylene that absorbs the shock of any hard hits or sudden movements, preventing breakage and damage during long rides in the back of a moving truck.
Yes, you can use too much bubble wrap. If you overdo it with the wrapping, it can strain the top of your box and break open the taped seal, risking the chance that the contents of the box could fall out or break. Use enough wrapping to fully cover your item without compromising the security of your box.
