How to Pack Fragile Items Like a Pro

Professional movers see the same broken items over and over. The good news? Nearly all breakage is avoidable with the right packing technique and materials.

Invest in Proper Materials

Use double-wall cardboard boxes, not single-wall. Buy bubble wrap, packing paper (not newspaper — ink transfers), and foam pouches for electronics. The cost of materials is a fraction of replacing a broken item.

The Bottom Cushion Rule

Always put 5–10 cm of crumpled paper or bubble wrap at the bottom of every box. This absorbs shock if the box is dropped. Never place a fragile item directly on the box floor.

Plates Go Vertical

Wrap each plate individually in packing paper. Stack them on edge (like records), not flat. Plates are far stronger against vertical force than they are when stacked flat and compressed.

Glasses Get Stuffed

Stuff tissue paper inside each glass before wrapping the outside. This helps guard against the glass collapsing inward on impact. Place glasses upright in cell dividers.

Electronics Need Original Boxes

If you kept the original packaging for your TV, laptop, or speakers, use it — manufacturers designed that foam to absorb specific impacts. If not, double-box with at least 10 cm of padding.

The Shake Test

Before sealing a box, give it a gentle shake. If you hear or feel movement, add more padding. Items should be snug — not tight, not loose.

Label Clearly

Mark fragile boxes on the top and all four sides with a red marker. Add 'THIS SIDE UP' arrows. The more visible the warnings, the more carefully movers will handle the box.