How to Pack Fragile Items for Moving
10 professional packing tips to keep your dishes, glassware, and valuables safe during your London house move.
Nothing ruins moving day faster than opening a box to find broken dishes or shattered glassware. After 8+ years of packing for London moves, we've perfected the techniques to keep your fragile items safe. Here are our 10 expert tips for packing fragile items.
Gather Quality Packing Materials
Don't skimp on materials. You'll need: sturdy boxes (double-walled for heavy items), packing paper (newspaper can stain), bubble wrap, packing tape, permanent markers, and box dividers for glassware. Invest in proper materials - they're cheaper than replacing broken items.
Pack Plates Vertically
Never stack plates flat! Wrap each plate in packing paper, then stand them vertically in the box (like records in a crate). This distributes pressure evenly and prevents breakage. Place heavier items at the bottom, lighter ones on top.
Wrap Glasses Individually
Each glass needs individual attention. Stuff the hollow interior with crumpled paper first, then wrap the outside with 2-3 layers of packing paper. Use dividers in boxes for extra protection. Never nest glasses inside each other - they can break when pulled apart.
Cushion Everything
Use plenty of padding. Line box bottoms with 3-4 inches of crumpled paper. Fill all gaps between items with packing material. The box should feel snug with no movement when shaken gently. Empty space = breakage risk.
Label Everything Clearly
Write 'FRAGILE' in large letters on all sides of boxes. Add 'THIS WAY UP' with arrows. Note the contents ('Kitchen - Glassware') and the destination room. This helps movers handle boxes correctly and speeds up unpacking.
Don't Overpack Boxes
Heavy boxes break more easily and are harder to move safely. Keep boxes under 20kg. Pack heavy fragile items (casserole dishes) in small boxes, light items (wine glasses) in medium boxes. If you can't lift it comfortably, it's too heavy.
Pack Electronics Carefully
Use original boxes if you have them. Otherwise, wrap screens in anti-static bubble wrap. Remove batteries from devices. Coil cables neatly and secure with twist ties. Pack remotes and cables in the same box as their devices.
Protect Artwork and Mirrors
Use picture boxes or wrap in bubble wrap and cardboard corners. Tape an 'X' across glass mirrors to prevent dangerous shattering if broken. Never lay artwork flat - transport upright. Mark 'DO NOT LAY FLAT' prominently.
Create an Essentials Box
Pack a separate box with items you'll need immediately: kettle, mugs, basic cutlery, phone chargers, toiletries, medications, and a change of clothes. Keep this with you, not in the removal van. Label it 'OPEN FIRST'.
Consider Professional Packers
For valuable antiques, artwork, or if you're short on time, professional packing services are worth every penny. We bring all materials, pack everything safely, and carry insurance. Get a quote for our London packing service.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you pack dishes for moving without breaking?
Wrap each dish individually in packing paper or bubble wrap. Place them vertically in boxes (like records) rather than stacking flat. Use plenty of padding between items and fill gaps with crumpled paper. Mark boxes 'FRAGILE' and 'THIS WAY UP'.
What's the best way to pack glasses and glassware?
Wrap each glass individually with packing paper. Use dividers in boxes for extra protection. Pack glasses standing up, not on their sides. Fill hollow items like vases with crumpled paper. Never overpack boxes - keep them manageable to lift.
How do you pack a TV for moving?
If you have the original box, use it. Otherwise, wrap the TV in bubble wrap and secure with tape. Use a TV box or create padding with blankets. Transport upright, never flat. Mark the box with the screen size and 'FRAGILE - SCREEN'.
What should I pack first when moving house?
Pack non-essential items first: out-of-season clothes, books, decorative items, and garage/shed contents. Pack room by room. Essentials like toiletries, medications, phone chargers, and a change of clothes should be packed last in an 'essentials box'.
Don't Risk Breakages
Our professional packing service ensures everything arrives safely. We bring all materials and pack with care.