10 Tips for Moving Fragile Items

Published: September 01, 2024

Moving can be a stressful experience, especially when it comes to handling fragile items. The last thing you want is to open a box in your new home only to find your cherished belongings broken. Whether it’s your grandmother’s china, a valuable piece of art, or a collection of wine glasses, taking extra care with these delicate items is essential. Here are ten tips to help you move fragile items safely and efficiently.

1. Gather the Right Supplies

Before you start packing, make sure you have all the necessary supplies. You’ll need sturdy boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, and cushioning materials like foam peanuts or air pillows. Consider using specialty boxes, such as dish packs or glassware dividers, for extremely fragile items. Having these materials on hand will make the packing process smoother and help protect your items from damage.

2. Use Small Boxes

When it comes to fragile items, smaller boxes are better. Larger boxes may be tempting because they can hold more, but they can also become too heavy and difficult to handle. Plus, the more space there is in a box, the more room for items to shift around, increasing the risk of breakage. Pack fragile items in smaller boxes to limit movement and make them easier to carry.

3. Wrap Each Item Individually

It might be tempting to place several items in a box together to save time, but this increases the risk of damage. Instead, take the time to wrap each fragile item individually. Use bubble wrap or packing paper to cover each item completely. This will provide a cushion against bumps and jostling during the move. Don’t forget to secure the wrapping with tape to keep it in place.

4. Use Plenty of Padding

Once your items are wrapped, add extra padding to the box. Line the bottom of the box with a layer of cushioning material, such as crumpled packing paper or foam peanuts. Place the wrapped items inside, filling any gaps with more padding. A good rule of thumb is to ensure that the items in the box don’t move when you shake it gently. This helps absorb any shocks and keeps your fragile items safe.

5. Label Boxes Clearly

Clearly label each box containing fragile items with the word “FRAGILE” and indicate which side is up. This will alert anyone to handle the boxes with care. Include a brief description of the contents, like “glassware” or “porcelain,” so you know which boxes to handle with extra care.

6. Don’t Overpack Boxes

It can be tempting to fill every inch of a box to make the most of your packing space, but overpacking can lead to damage. Boxes that are too full may bulge or become too heavy, increasing the risk of dropping. Keep boxes comfortably packed with enough room for padding, but don’t cram them full. A little bit of space will allow the padding to do its job.

7. Reinforce the Bottom of Boxes

Fragile items tend to be heavy, so it’s important to reinforce the bottom of each box to prevent it from giving out. Use extra packing tape to strengthen the seams and corners of the box. This simple step can prevent a disastrous spill and keep your fragile items safe.

8. Use Specialty Boxes

For items like mirrors, artwork, or electronics, consider using specialty boxes designed to provide extra protection. These boxes are often double-walled or have built-in padding to keep delicate items safe. Some even come with foam inserts that can be customized to fit your items perfectly. Specialty boxes may cost a bit more, but the peace of mind they provide is worth it.

9. Pack Plates and Glassware Vertically

When packing plates and glassware, place them vertically in the box rather than stacking them flat. This reduces the surface area exposed to pressure and minimizes the risk of cracking or breaking. Be sure to place a layer of padding between each item and along the sides of the box.

10. Unpack Fragile Items First

Instead of unloading boxes of fragile items last, aim to unpack them first when you arrive at your new home. By doing this, you reduce the amount of time these items are exposed to potential risks. Plus, it allows you to carefully set up and store your delicate items right away, reducing the chances of them being accidentally knocked over or damaged during the hustle of unpacking.

Moving fragile items doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right supplies, careful packing, and extra attention, you can ensure that your delicate belongings arrive at your new home safely. Follow these tips, and you can enjoy your new space with all your cherished items intact. 

For help with your move, visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Detroit or give us a call at (248) 617-0567.