The Dos and Don’ts of Packing Fragile Items

Packing fragile items can be nerve-wracking. Whether it’s a treasured family heirloom, your favorite set of wine glasses, or an expensive piece of tech, the last thing you want is to open a box and find shattered pieces. With the right approach, you can safely pack and protect even the most delicate items.

Here’s your guide to the dos and don’ts of packing fragile items like a pro.

The Dos

1. Do Use the Right Materials

The first step in packing fragile items is gathering the proper materials. Skip the thin grocery bags and invest in high-quality supplies, such as:

• Bubble wrap for cushioning delicate surfaces.

• Packing paper to fill gaps and prevent shifting.

• Foam peanuts or air pillows for added protection inside boxes.

• Sturdy, double-walled boxes to prevent crushing during transit.

Reusable bins, like those offered by Bin on the Move, are a fantastic option for fragile items. Their sturdy design provides extra protection that flimsy cardboard can’t match.

2. Do Wrap Each Item Individually

Each fragile item deserves individual attention. Wrap every piece in bubble wrap or packing paper, securing it with tape. For plates and glassware, wrap them one at a time and layer them with cardboard or foam sheets for added security.

Pro Tip: Stack plates and bowls vertically instead of laying them flat. This reduces the risk of breakage by distributing pressure more evenly.

3. Do Fill Empty Spaces

The enemy of fragile items during a move is shifting. Use packing paper, foam peanuts, or even towels to fill any gaps in your boxes or bins. This ensures your items stay snug and don’t rattle around during transport.

Bonus Tip: Shake the box gently before sealing it. If you hear movement, add more padding until the items are secure.

4. Do Label Your Boxes Clearly

Once you’ve packed your fragile items, mark the box on every side with “FRAGILE” in bold, large letters. Include directional arrows to indicate which side should remain up. This helps movers (and you) handle the box with care.

5. Do Double-Tape the Bottom of Boxes

Reinforce the bottom of your boxes with double layers of packing tape to prevent them from giving out under weight. This simple step can save you from a disaster on moving day.

The Don’ts

1. Don’t Overpack Boxes

Cramming too many items into one box increases the risk of damage. Overpacked boxes are harder to carry, stack, and secure. Instead, aim for a balance: enough padding to protect the items but not so much that the box becomes unstable.

2. Don’t Use Flimsy Boxes

Thin, single-layer cardboard boxes won’t cut it for fragile items. They’re prone to bending and collapsing, especially if they get stacked under heavier boxes. Opt for double-walled boxes or reusable bins that can handle the pressure.

3. Don’t Mix Heavy and Fragile Items

Never pack fragile items with heavy ones like books or appliances. The weight can crush delicate pieces. If you need to pack multiple items in the same box, keep fragile ones on top and separate them with layers of padding.

4. Don’t Skip Labeling

It’s easy to forget which box holds your fragile items, especially during the chaos of a move. Skipping labels puts your delicate belongings at greater risk of being mishandled. Take the extra few seconds to label every box appropriately.

5. Don’t Rush the Process

Packing fragile items requires patience. Rushing increases the chance of mistakes, like inadequate wrapping or under-padded boxes. Set aside dedicated time to pack your fragile belongings carefully.

Extra Tips for Moving Fragile Items

• Use Towels and Clothing for Extra Padding: Save money on packing materials by wrapping fragile items in soft household items like towels, blankets, and sweaters.

• Transport Valuables Yourself: If possible, personally transport extremely valuable or sentimental items in your car for extra peace of mind.

• Inspect Items After the Move: Once you’ve unpacked, check your fragile items for damage. This is especially important if you’re filing a claim with a moving company.

Final Thoughts

Packing fragile items doesn’t have to be stressful. By following these dos and don’ts, you can ensure your most delicate belongings arrive at your new home in perfect condition. And if you’re ready to simplify your entire moving process, let Bin on the Move handle the heavy lifting. Our durable, reusable bins are perfect for safely transporting fragile items—and they’re included with every move!

Contact us today to book your move and discover the difference reusable bins can make.