Resources Blog

September 01, 2020

For all the people moving, properly packing and storing their fragile items is one of their top concerns. So what's the best way to wrap breakables to ensure they survive the trip?

From dishes to porcelain delicates, we can help you make sure your fragile objects are properly protected before they’re packed.

Get the Right Tools
Before you even start packing, make sure you have everything you need to keep your breakables safe. Get plenty of cardboard boxes of varying sizes, packing paper, packing tape, a sharpie, and shrink wrap or plastic wrap.

Many people use newspapers instead of packing paper to save money, but that's not a great idea. The ink from the newspaper can easily transfer onto your possessions, staining them forever. Instead, packing tape is a safe, residue-free alternative.

These tools will give help you stay organized and properly pack your boxes throughout the move.

Eggs Go on Top
When you load your grocery bag at the store, you make sure the delicates, like bread and eggs and chips, go on top. That way they don't get crushed by your other groceries.

The same concept applies when you pack delicate items. When you're packing, always put the heavier things on the bottom and the lighter things on top. Try to keep this philosophy even when you're loading your moving truck.

That's why getting a moving storage container first can protect your breakables. You'll have time to organize the moving container the way you want without the pressure of paying for movers.

Label It
Any time you pack something breakable, make sure to label the package "FRAGILE." Write it on all sides in big letters so movers know the box shouldn't be dropped, roughly handled, or smooshed.

You may want to invest in both a red sharpie and a black to help your fragile label stand out more. Or you could get red packing tape or duct tape to draw attention to breakable boxes.

By labeling your boxes, you can make sure your delicates are never confused with something sturdier. They can be treated like the treasures they are.

Pack Like Items
Packing like items makes them easier to organize and spot which boxes are delicate.

Many things, like plates or stackable cups, fit well together so it's easier to fit more to a box.

But keep in mind not to overload a box. If a box is too heavy, it's more likely to get dropped, or for the bottom to blow out. Cardboard deteriorates with time too, so older boxes shouldn't be used for fragile items.

Have Quilts and Pillows Pull Double Duty
Safely sandwich your breakable items in between pillows and blankets for extra padding and protection.

Line a box with a quilt or blanket then add your individually wrapped fragile items. Once they're all in place, put a pillow on top. This will help your delicates move around less often, and give them some cushion when they do.

Keep Items Separate
This means you need to wrap each item individually, even if all the plates are going in the same box. Putting a barrier between them keeps them from juggling against each other throughout the move.

The more often items clank against each other, the likely they are to chip or break during the trip.

Try adding paper plates between plates. Double wrap delicate items in packing paper and bubble wrap them to keep them from banging against each other.

Take Your Time
Moving is hard and stressful, and in a perfect world, you'd have plenty of time to get it done, and get it done in that time. Do what you can to plan for your move as much as possible, and don't pack your breakables last minute.

When you take your time, you can ensure you're properly packing things and keeping your fragile items out of harm's way. A storage container mover is a perfect way to take the stress out of moving and help you make the most of your time.

Don't Overpack Boxes
One of the biggest mistakes you can make while packing for a move is overstuffing your boxes. This puts stress on the cardboard and on the tape that keeps it all together.

But on top of that, it makes it harder to stack things in the moving truck. Bulging items are more likely to get crushed than properly packed boxes.

So don't feel like you need to add just one more thing to the box. Seal it up, properly label it, and move on to the next one.

Pack Them Right
Any time you pack something fragile, double wrap it in packing paper. If the item is hollow, like a glass or vase, fill it with packing paper too. This gives it extra structural integrity. Make sure you protect weak points like handles or thin areas with packing paper or bubble wrap.

Make sure there's plenty of packing between each item to keep them from hitting each other. Don't overstuff boxes, which can make it more likely your items will get damaged.

Properly Storing Fragile Items Is the Secret to Keeping Them Safe
No one likes worrying about their fragile items when they move. That's why when you follow these tips, you make sure your breakables are protected.

Make sure you use the right packing material and you take care to protect weak points like handles or thin areas. But with the right tools and the right technique, you can make sure your fragile items are properly stored and will survive any move.

Do you want to take the stress out of moving? We can help! Get a free quote here.