How to pack fragile items for a move
Glasses, plates, mirrors and TVs – how to pack them so they arrive in one piece.
Fragile items rarely break because of the drive – they break because of poor packing: boxes that are too big, too little protection and empty space where things can move. A few rules are enough to get even the most delicate items there intact.
Rule number one: small, sturdy boxes
Use smaller boxes made of stronger cardboard for dishes and glass – five-layer boxes are ideal. A big box full of plates is too heavy and the bottom can give way.
Plates and bowls
- Wrap each plate separately in paper or bubble wrap.
- Stand plates upright in the box, like records on a shelf – they handle pressure better that way.
- Put a layer of crumpled paper at the bottom of the box.
Glasses and mugs
- Fill the inside of each glass with paper, then wrap the outside.
- Never nest glasses inside each other.
- Fill every empty space in the box – nothing should rattle when you move it.
Mirrors and pictures
Put tape in an X shape across the glass – if it cracks, it will not shatter. Protect the corners with cardboard guards and wrap the whole surface in bubble wrap. Larger mirrors and pictures are best transported upright in a cardboard frame.
TV and computer
If you still have the original TV box, use it. If not, protect the screen with a soft blanket or foam and transport it upright – never lying on the screen. Pack the cables in a labelled bag and photograph how they were connected.
Labelling
Write “FRAGILE” on every box with breakable items and mark with an arrow which side goes up. It helps the crew carry and stack it more carefully.
Most common mistakes
- A box of glass that is far too heavy.
- Empty space inside the box.
- Heavy boxes stacked on top of light and fragile ones.
- Packing at the last minute, in a hurry.
No time to pack? Leave it to us – choose “We pack” and the box type in the calculator.