How to Pack Fragile Items for a House Move

Fragile items are the most common source of damage during a house move - and the most preventable. The vast majority of breakages are caused not by crew carelessness but by inadequate packing. With the right materials and techniques, even the most delicate items can make it through a move without a scratch.

The golden rules

No void space. Any space inside a box allows items to move during transit. Fill every gap with scrunched packing paper until the box feels firm. This single rule prevents more damage than any other.
Never assume fragile means light. Heavy items can be fragile - sculpture, ceramics, cast glass. Never use box weight as a guide to cushioning required.
Double-box valuables. Pack in a smaller box, then place that box inside a larger box with cushioning on all sides.

China and crockery

Wrap each piece individually in at least two layers of packing paper. Pack plates vertically in a small double-walled box with crumpled paper at base and top. Cups and bowls nested carefully with paper between each, packed opening-down.

Glassware and crystal

Fill each glass interior with scrunched tissue paper before wrapping in bubble wrap. Pack glasses upright - never on their sides. A thick base of crumpled paper, heaviest glasses at base, most delicate at top.

Artwork and framed pictures

Corner protectors on all four corners before wrapping in bubble wrap with glass facing outward. Label FRAGILE - DO NOT STACK. Transport vertically, never flat. Never stack heavy items on top.

Mirrors

Apply masking tape in an X pattern across the mirror face - this contains any shards if the mirror cracks. Wrap in multiple layers of bubble wrap and transport vertically between mattresses or sofa cushions where possible.

Electronics

Use original boxes where kept. Otherwise wrap in anti-static bubble wrap. Remove batteries. Pack monitors and TVs upright - never lay a flat-screen flat, the weight can crack the screen.