How to Pack Fragile Items Like a Pro
Guest Post: Carolyn Mitchell
Moving to a new home, city, or even country is an exciting new adventure. Though it is always hard to say goodbye to friends and family, many people look forward to the prospect of a new life and meeting new people. However, as thrilling as it is, moving can also be nerve-wracking, especially when it comes to packing.
For people who have spent years building their nest, the idea of putting their lives in boxes can cause a lot of anxiety. And that is especially true when it comes to packing fragile objects. Even if we haven’t experienced it ourselves, we have all heard stories about items of sentimental or financial value being damaged or destroyed during the transport. It can happen to anyone, and all it takes is one risky step or sharp turn for your favorite vase to be shattered into pieces.
But anxiety and focusing on everything that can go wrong during packing isn’t exactly helpful. There are many obstacles, indeed. However, if you prepare yourself well to pack fragile items and follow the steps we outline below, chances are you will move successfully with all of your valuables in one place. Let’s discuss how to handle items you want to be packed professionally
Make a Plan in Advance
Most of the time, you will have plenty of time to plan everything. Packing your mother’s antique china, mirrors, TV, and other breakable things is a serious matter, and you should take your time. The best way to start is to make a list of breakable objects and start putting them in a designated place. Ideally, you should put all the valuable items in a separate room where any kids and pets can’t enter. If this is not an option, place them in an assigned place and block access. You should also plan the order of packing; which goes first? What can go into the truck later in the process? The more organized you are up front, the easier the process will be.
Prepare the Packing Material
Far too often, people think that, for packing fragile things, it is enough to take some boxes and old newspapers. If it were that simple, things wouldn’t get broken during transport. However, we don’t pack all breakables in the same way. For example, you need to get a box with cardboard dividers for packing glassware in the best way possible. As you most likely didn’t keep the original package of your TV, consider getting a special TV kit that comes with polystyrene foam protectors. In general, you will need the following materials.
- Cardboard or plastic boxes.
- Foldable cardboard
- Bubble wrap or other padding material
- Plastic, zipper lock bags
- Packing paper or newspaper
- Packing peanuts
- Packing tape
- Scissors
Using original product packaging would, of course, be ideal. But in reality, as we don’t have storage space for all those boxes, we throw most of them away. You should know that there are different types, and they don’t all offer the same quality. You can use a cheap or free cardboard box you got from the local supermarket for books and clothes. But for breakables, it is best to order sturdy, high-quality cardboard boxes.
Get the Boxes Ready for Packing
Did you think that’s all? No need to rush — we’re just getting started. Once you decide what you need to pack and get all the supplies, it is time to prepare your boxes for the items. If you didn’t buy brand new boxes, you need to examine them and secure all of the corners and seams with tape. Also, make sure that they are not too big or too small for the items you want to pack. After that, you need to add packing peanuts, paper, and other supplies to ensure adequate padding. Don’t forget to put more padding on the top once you finish packing.
Start Wrapping & Packing
Ideally, you shouldn’t be distracted by anything or anyone when performing this task. If you have kids or pets, ask your spouse or partner to entertain them in another room or take them to a park. Cover every part of each item with bubble wrap and secure it with duct tape. In general, the best way is to pack every object individually.
Another thing to remember is that breakables need to be packed tightly to prevent them from jiggling in the box. If you notice some hollow spaces after packing everything, fill them with packing paper or newspapers.
Label All the Boxes
After that, all that’s left is to label the boxes. If you don’t want someone to accidentally put a box with books on top of your porcelain plates, take a marker pen and write FRAGILE on all the boxes containing breakables. That way, everyone will know that they need to be careful when handling those boxes.
Bottom Line
Now you have all the essential tips for packing fragile items. However, if you still feel stressed about packing breakables, there is no shame in asking a professional to help. It is always better to pay someone skilled than risk damaging or destroying things you value.
Wanting to stay organized during the moving process? Check out the Move Mama Move Relocation Planners to keep you on top of it all. Subscribe (in the sidebar →) to Move Mama Move, and you will receive a special offer on items in Move Mama Move’s shop, including the Relocation Planners.
About the author: Carolyn Mitchell is a freelance writer and content strategist with a passion for home décor. She can often be found re-painting and updating the furnishings in her home, and she is also a dedicated cat mom to two adorable kitties.
