- 21622 Plummer St., Chatsworth, CA 91311, USA
- Move Now, Pay Later!
- MC Number: 971895
- DOT Number: 2892909
8 Mins Read
Handle with care—three little words that make all the difference when you’re moving fragile items from one home to another.
If you’ve ever moved before, you know the stress of watching that one box, the one filled with your favorite glassware or your expensive electronics, wobble dangerously as it’s carried out the door.
One of the most common regrets people have after moving is not taking the time to protect fragile items during a move, and the cost of replacing broken valuables adds up quickly. In fact, a recent report found that 1 in 5 people end up with damaged or broken belongings during a move.
That’s why it’s crucial to learn how to protect fragile items properly. Whether you’re wondering how to pack fragile items before moving, trying to choose between bubble wrap and packing paper for fragile items, or just want to make sure you’re moving fragile belongings safely, this guide will give you everything you need to know.
You don’t need to be a professional mover; just a little know-how, the right materials, and a solid plan can make a huge difference.
When you’re moving, it’s easy to get caught up in the big picture: the furniture, the boxes, the truck rental, and the long to-do list. But often, it’s the smaller, more delicate things that matter most.
And if they’re not properly protected, the risk of damage is high, and sometimes irreversible.
Here’s why taking the time to protect fragile items during a move is so important:
Many fragile items, such as electronics, artwork, glass decor, or high-end kitchenware, carry a hefty price tag. Even things that may not cost much but hold sentimental value are irreplaceable.
No matter how careful your movers are, boxes shift during transport. Roads have bumps, turns, and sudden stops, all of which can jostle items inside boxes. If you don’t use the best materials for packing breakables, they can easily crack or shatter.
Sometimes, damage happens while loading, unloading, or even while carrying boxes upstairs or through narrow hallways. Knowing how to secure fragile items in moving boxes helps protect them from all these common mishaps.
Even if you hire a moving company with insurance, the basic coverage might not be enough to reimburse you fully. And for DIY moves, it’s all on you. Taking extra care with packing fragile items for moving reduces your chances of dealing with loss.
When you know that your fragile belongings are packed the right way, you don’t have to worry about what condition they’ll be in when you open the box. That peace of mind is worth the extra time it takes to pack them properly.
Before packing starts, gather high-quality materials, such as:
When it comes to protecting fragile items during a move, the way you pack breakables like dishes, mugs, figurines, and decor can make all the difference.
Let’s break down how to do it step-by-step:
Before you wrap a single dish, find a clean, flat surface to work on, a large table or even the floor works great. When you pack while standing or on unstable surfaces, you increase the risk of dropping something.
Working at ground level is especially useful for handling fragile or awkwardly shaped items like glass vases or ceramic bowls. Make sure you’ve got all your supplies within reach: tape, scissors, bubble wrap, packing paper, foam sheets, boxes, and labels.
This is the golden rule of packing fragile items: wrap everything separately. Don’t just stack plates together with a bit of paper between them and hope for the best — that’s how chips and cracks happen.
Start with a layer of packing paper or foam to gently protect the surface of the item. Then wrap a layer of bubble wrap for shock absorption. Use tape to secure the wrap so it doesn’t come undone inside the box. For extremely delicate items like porcelain figurines or wine glasses, it’s smart to double-wrap for added cushioning.
Before placing anything inside the box, make sure the bottom is well-padded. Think of this like building a shock absorber. You can use a thick layer of crumpled packing paper, foam peanuts, or rolled towels. This base protects fragile items from vibrations and jolts during the move.
Without a cushioned foundation, even the best-wrapped item could crack if the box is placed too hard on the ground or shifts during the drive. If you’re trying to protect fragile items during a move, this base padding is essential.
Heavier items at the bottom give your box a stable base and prevent the lighter items from being crushed. Start by placing heavier items, such as thick plates, metal-framed decor, or solid mugs, first. Then, layer more delicate items like wine glasses, thin ceramics, or picture frames on top.
This method not only helps with protecting glassware and dishes during a move, but also keeps the entire box better balanced for lifting and stacking.
Here’s a professional mover’s tip: always pack plates on their edge, never flat. It might seem strange at first, but stacking plates like books on a shelf distributes pressure more evenly and reduces the chance of cracking.
Wrap each plate individually using paper and bubble wrap. Place a layer of crumpled paper or foam between each plate and insert them vertically into the box with minimal space to move. Fill any extra gaps with soft materials like paper, foam peanuts, or even kitchen towels.
Hollow items like bowls, mugs, vases, or even certain decorative pieces need extra attention. Why? Because they’re structurally weaker, they can collapse or crack more easily under pressure if not filled.
Here’s what to do:
For your most delicate or high-value items, like crystal vases, antique dishes, or family heirlooms, the double-boxing method is the safest approach.
Here’s how it works:
This technique creates a “buffer zone” and is perfect for moving fragile glass decor safely. It’s how professional movers handle artwork, collectibles, and anything that’s one-of-a-kind or easily damaged.
Here are some extra measures to take before packing electronics, art or specialty items:
Electronics are not only fragile; they’re also expensive and often loaded with important data. Before packing anything, back up all files and unplug every cable. Keep accessories like chargers and cords in labeled zip-lock bags taped to the main device.
Use anti-static bubble wrap to protect the surface and internal components, especially for items like laptops, TVs, or gaming consoles. Add at least 3 inches of padding on all sides inside the box, using foam, crumpled paper, or soft cloth.
To avoid any mishandling, clearly mark each box as “Fragile – Electronics” and indicate which side should face up.
Delicate artwork, glass-covered frames, and mirrors need extra care. Start by placing acid-free tissue or glassine paper against the surface to avoid smudges or scratches. Then wrap the item in bubble wrap and secure it with tape. For structure and protection, sandwich the piece between two sheets of corrugated cardboard.
Use a picture/mirror box or create a DIY one by reinforcing the sides of a regular box. Transport these items upright, not flat, to reduce stress on the glass.
Before you seal up those boxes and call it a day, make sure you take these final steps; they’re the difference between a box that protects and a box that breaks.
One of the most overlooked mistakes in packing fragile items for moving is leaving gaps inside boxes. Whether it’s the bottom, sides, or top, every empty space should be filled with soft cushioning like packing peanuts, crumpled paper, towels, or blankets.
When sealing boxes, don’t just tape the top closed. Use the “H” pattern: one strip across the middle seam and two along the edges. This reinforces the box and helps it stay shut under pressure.
Mark every fragile box with “FRAGILE” and “This Side Up” using bold, permanent markers. Add arrows to show orientation, especially for glass, electronics, and artwork. It’s a small step that makes a big difference when you’re focused on moving fragile belongings safely.
Even with the best materials and careful wrapping, a few extra tricks can make your packing more efficient and safer. These practical tips will help you go the extra mile to protect fragile items during a move without overcomplicating the process.
Instead of buying more supplies, repurpose what you already own. Wrap fragile items in soft clothing, blankets, or bath towels. This saves space, cuts down on waste, and provides excellent cushioning.
It might seem like a good idea to fill one big box with all your breakables, but that’s a fast track to disaster. Overloaded boxes are harder to carry and more likely to drop. Stick to small or medium-sized boxes, and make sure they’re not too heavy.
If you’re reusing boxes, check for any wear or soft spots. Add an extra layer of tape along the seams and the bottom. This simple step can prevent the entire box from collapsing under the weight of your fragile belongings.
Before wrapping anything valuable, especially electronics or décor, take a few photos. If something gets damaged or lost, these pictures can help with insurance claims or identifying missing parts.
Pack a separate box with a few fragile items you’ll need right away after the move — like glasses, coffee mugs, or a desk lamp. Label it clearly and keep it with you if possible.
How to Choose the Right Moving Company
How Weather Can Affect Your Move and What You Can Do
Use the original box if available. If not, wrap the screen with a microfiber cloth, then use anti-static bubble wrap. Place it in a snug box with 2–3 inches of padding on all sides. Keep it upright and clearly labeled as “Fragile – Electronics.”
Use climate-controlled storage if possible. Wrap items in bubble wrap and avoid using newspaper, which can leave ink stains. Elevate boxes off the ground and avoid stacking heavy boxes on top of fragile ones.
Yes, you can pack fragile items in a hard-shell suitcase for extra protection. Wrap each item in bubble wrap or soft clothing and avoid overfilling the suitcase. Keep it with you during the move if possible.
Each material has its purpose: use foam for electronics, bubble wrap for heavy or breakable items, and packing paper for light protection or surface wrapping. A combination of materials offers the best protection.
Start packing fragile items at least 2–3 weeks before your move. This gives you time to wrap everything carefully, gather the right materials, and avoid last-minute damage due to rushed packing.
field marked with * are mandatory
We’re so glad to hear you had a great experience with us! Your feedback means the world to us and helps others know what to expect. Could you take a moment to leave us a positive review on one of these sites? It would be greatly appreciated!
Choose where you’d like to leave your review!
If we didn’t quite meet your standards, we would truly appreciate the opportunity to address any concerns before you leave a review elsewhere.
By sharing your thoughts with us, you’ll be helping us improve, and a supervisor will personally review your message to make sure we make it right.
