Packing is one of the most stressful parts of moving — especially when it comes to fragile items. From glassware and china to décor and electronics, your delicate belongings need extra care to make it to your new home safely.
Here are a few pro tips from the MoveBright team to help you pack fragile items the right way and avoid damage during your move.
1. Start Early and Plan Ahead
Fragile items take more time and attention to pack properly. Start packing them early — well before moving day — so you can wrap, pad, and box them without feeling rushed. Waiting until the last minute can lead to broken items and unnecessary stress.
2. Wrap Each Item Individually
Never stack fragile items without proper wrapping. Use bubble wrap, packing paper, or soft linens (like towels or t-shirts) to cushion each piece.
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Wrap plates vertically (like records) instead of flat.
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Use cardboard dividers for glasses and stemware.
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Wrap lids and removable parts separately to prevent rattling.
Each item should be secure enough that it doesn’t touch another inside the box.
3. Use the Right Boxes and Padding
Choose sturdy, double-walled boxes for fragile belongings. Before placing items inside, line the bottom with padding — bubble wrap, packing peanuts, or crumpled paper work great.
Fill any empty spaces so items can’t shift during transport. For extra protection, pack smaller delicate items in smaller boxes before placing those into a larger, cushioned one.
Pro tip: Use what you already have! Clothes, pillows, and blankets make great eco-friendly padding and save you money on supplies.
4. Clearly Label Fragile Boxes
Once packed and sealed, label your boxes clearly on all sides with “FRAGILE” and “HANDLE WITH CARE.”
If certain boxes contain particularly delicate items, note what’s inside (e.g., “Glassware – Kitchen” or “Picture Frames – Living Room”) to make unloading and unpacking easier.
5. Pack Smart: Heavy on Bottom, Light on Top
When loading boxes into your moving truck or storage container, place heavier boxes on the bottom and lighter, fragile ones on top. This prevents breakage and keeps your valuables from getting crushed in transit.
6. Don’t Overpack Boxes
It might be tempting to fill every inch of space, but overpacking makes boxes harder to handle and more likely to burst open. A box should close easily and feel stable when lifted.
If a box feels too heavy or fragile, divide the contents into two smaller ones instead.
7. Consider Professional Packing Help
If you’re short on time or have especially delicate or valuable items, such as artwork, antiques, or instruments, let professionals handle it.
At MoveBright Moving & Storage, our team is trained to pack and protect your belongings with the same care we’d use for our own. We use top-quality materials, proven techniques, and extra padding to ensure your items arrive safely at your new home.
Move with Confidence
By starting early, using the right materials, and labeling everything clearly, you can protect your fragile items and move with peace of mind.
Need help? MoveBright’s full-service packing and moving team can handle everything from your dishes to your furniture — safely, efficiently, and stress-free.