You’ll need more than kid gloves to keep your items intact
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.
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.”
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.
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.
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. You can also use towels or moving blankets to fill in any gaps or double-wrap your belongings for added security.
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.
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.
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.
My furniture was delivered today, and the whole move went smoothly. The final cost matched the original quote with no extra charges. The movers were friendly, professional, and handled everything with care. Even after the long distance, everything arrived in perfect condition. I’m very happy...
Moving of AmericaShowed up on time and cleaned carpets well, but didn?t move furniture.
Voda Cleaning & Restoration of ColumbusA reliable team for moves across state. My switch to a new place needed careful lifting through tight hallways. The movers checked the doorway first, then carried heavier pieces with slow, controlled movements. Their patience helped prevent damage, and I?d choose them again.
**Would rate a 0 if i could** NEVER USE THIS COMPANY!!!!! They shattered my tv console and dresser, lost a mirror, and never finished the move. The broken furniture cost me over $600 to replace. They left me with 6+ hours of personal labor moving my 1BR apartment, when I was quoted a FULL...
All My Sons Moving & StorageI could not have moved without the help of Jen Stover! I was in my house for nearly 20 years, so the thought of clearing it out while working full time was overwhelming. Jen takes great joy in sorting and organizing while asking the hard questions with patience and compassion. Jen is...
Go and Stow Home OrganizingExcellent experience for me! They helped me a lot with my move. very reasonable price. Good communication with the office manager is excellent.
Goodview Moving and StorageI was concerned about my possessions safety throughout the move but Bridge View Van Lines took all necessary security measures to make sure everything arrived in mint shape I am really appreciative of their effort and commitment They made my long distance move seem simple
Bridgeview Van LinesThis moving company is the best in Columbus, Ohio! They rescued me when my movers didnâ t show up. Do not ever use Plane Movers! They never showed up for my move, claiming that I never signed the contract. They didnâ t call me to follow up, communication was awful. The people that work for...
All My Sons Moving & StorageOzie and Tyquese were great and worked fast. It was a good move
All My Sons Moving & StorageJust moved from PA to Columbus in a studio apartment and needed help with some heavy furnitures because I couldn't do it alone. I called Hyremovers and they did a great and timely job and also left my apartment walls intact. Great service!
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