Oct 20

Oct 20 How to Pack Fragile Items for Moving and Storage

When moving or organizing your home or office, chances are you have your fair share of fragile and breakable itemsto pack up, such as glassware or electronics.

To avoid your fragile items from getting damaged during transport to your new residence, office or storage unit, use the right materials and implement proper packing techniques provided below.

Packing Materials for Fragile Items

Fragile items require packing materials that provide cushion during transportation, and protect areas that are especially susceptible to breaking or cracking, such as wine glasses or picture frames. Have the following items handy prior to packing your breakables:

Boxes
Bubble wrap
Dish and glass packers
Markers
Newspaper or packing paper
Packing peanuts
Plastic furniture covers
Tape
Towels or rags

It’s especially helpful to use boxes that are pre-divided for the specific dimensions of certain products, such as dishes or glassware. These smaller compartments help to limit the movement of breakable items, thus reducing the chance of damage.

In addition, if you have the item’s original box and/or packing components, such as Styrofoam sleeves for electronics or other pre-packaged items, plan to repackage and transport these items in their original packaging. These materials are specifically sized for the product, and will provide the greatest level of protection.

Steps for Packing Breakables

Once you have your supplies ready to go, follow the steps below to safely and securely pack your breakable items:

Secure the bottom of your box by taping all open seams and corners.
Build a cushion base by lining the inside of the box with bubble wrap or packing peanuts.
Individually wrap each item with bubble wrap, packing paper, newspaper or towels. Add additional material around thin areas, such as stems on wine glass or handles on mugs. Secure with tape to ensure the protective material stays in tact.
Carefully place wrapped items in the box, starting with the heaviest on the bottom and the lightest at the top. If you have pre-divided boxes, insert items in their appropriate compartments.
Fill any empty space in the box with packing peanuts, towels or paper to prevent breakables from moving around. This includes adding a layer to the top prior to sealing the box.

Seal the top of the box with tape and label each box as “fragile.” This will remind anyone handling the boxes to be careful when transporting or stacking.

How do you prefer to transport fragile and breakable items? Share your tips in the section below!

Image Credit: Stefan Schweihofer via Pixabay