Use the right types of boxes and packing materials, like packing paper, bubble wrap and furniture covers.
Jump to insightCompletely pack — but don’t overstuff — your boxes to prevent items from shifting while moving them and during transit.
Jump to insightPack fragile items separately from other items and clearly label them as fragile so they get the care they deserve.
Jump to insight8 steps to packing fragile items
Before you start the packing process, assess your belongings to see which items are the most fragile, and think about what types of supplies you may need. Waiting until the last minute can be the difference between safe, secure packing and a haphazard mess.
1. Document items and decide if you need insurance
Mariusz Baran, the owner of We Clear Everything, a house clearance company based in London, recommends taking extra steps to protect your valuable items — like inventory management and insurance — outside of packing.
“Keeping a detailed inventory with photographs ensures that everything is accounted for and in its original condition,” Baran said. “Valuation coverage or specific insurance for high-value or irreplaceable items is always recommended.”
If you’re using a moving company or movers, you can generally purchase insurance to protect your items. If you’re moving items by yourself to a new home that’s 20 minutes away from your current home, you likely won’t need to purchase insurance for valuable or fragile items.
2. Gather packing supplies
Having the right packing materials is crucial to ensuring your fragile items remain safe. Consider the following materials:
- Assortment of boxes: While it may seem like bigger is better, that’s not always the case with fragile items. Get boxes in an assortment of shapes, sizes and weights so you have options when packing.
- Markers or stickers for labeling: Label boxes according to their contents or room, and consider color-coding items.
- Tape: Get packing tape and masking tape to have on hand. Packing tape is for taping boxes shut, and masking tape is for labeling or taping materials without damaging items.
- Tools: Keep tools like Allen wrenches, screwdrivers and box cutters close by so you can take apart any furniture for safer travels. Use small plastic bags to store any loose pieces or hardware.
- Packing paper or newspapers: Packing paper is generally used for smaller, more delicate items that require more attention to detail, like dishes or fine china. You can also purchase dish and glass packing kits online.
- Bubble wrap: Bubble wrap helps protect easily breakable or easily scratched items like electronics. It’s typically better for bigger items that require more heavy-duty protection.
- Towels, rags or extra bedding: If you want to use what you already have for packing materials, gather your extra linens beforehand. These can be used in place of packing paper, bubble wrap and furniture covers, depending on the shape, size and material.
- Furniture covers: For added protection against damage, furniture covers are a good choice. If you have antiques or plan on storing your furniture for a bit, these covers can prevent dust, damage and fading.
Once you have a good idea of what you need, scour marketplaces like Facebook or Craigslist for free moving supplies. You can purchase what you can’t find for free at a moving supply or home improvement store.
3. Sort and declutter belongings
To make packing and unpacking easier, sort and declutter your fragile belongings before you pack. Take the time to categorize your items by room before putting them into boxes. By sorting your items by room, you can better see exactly what you have (and what you don’t) and stay decluttered.
Get rid of anything you don’t want or need at your new home, including duplicates and mismatched or damaged items. You can then either sell, donate or throw away what you don’t want. Here are a few tips for how to designate which option is right:
- Selling: It’s best to sell items that have a decent value, as long as they’re worth your time and effort to list and manage.
- Donating: You can drop off items that are still in good shape at a local donation center.
- Tossing: Throw away or recycle anything that’s broken, ripped, falling apart or of no value.
» MORE: Charities that offer free donation pickup
4. Choose the right boxes
According to Mariusz Baran, choosing the right packing box is crucial. He recommends opting for double-walled corrugated boxes with an edge crush test (ECT) rating of at least 44 to ensure the right amount of strength. In some cases, you may want to consider custom crating to fit an item perfectly or purchasing dish packs or wardrobe boxes designed for specific items.
But it’s not just the material you need to consider — the size also matters.
"I always recommend the 2-inch rule, leaving at least 2 inches of space on all sides of the item for cushioning materials," Baran said. "This prevents overpacking and underpacking, which can lead to damage during transport."
Make sure to tape all the edges of the box flaps on the bottom before you start packing. For boxes carrying heavier items, tape the inside as well.
I always recommend the 2-inch rule, leaving at least 2 inches of space on all sides of the item for cushioning materials. ”
5. Wrap items individually
Each item should be treated with respect to its unique needs.
"When it comes to packing and moving fragile items, the process is far more nuanced than simply wrapping them in bubble wrap," Baran said.
For example, electronics shouldn’t be wrapped the same way as artwork.
"For electronics or items that may be affected by static electricity, we use anti-static bubble wrap," Baran said. "Corner protectors are also essential tools in our packing process, especially for framed artwork or mirrors, as they protect the most vulnerable parts of these items."
How to wrap with packing materials
Here’s how to use common packing supplies for packing fragile items:
| Material | What’s it for | How to use |
|---|---|---|
| Bubble wrap | Large, oddly-shaped items, like lamps and electronics | Wrap around an item and use masking tape to keep it in place |
| Packing paper | Small, delicate items, like china and figurines | Wrap around an item or crinkle to cushion items in boxes |
| Corner protectors | Sharp corners on fragile items, like art | Press on all corners of the item |
| Plastic wrap or honeycomb wrap | Items that may leak or shift around, like bottles | Wrap around an item at least twice so it clings to itself |
6. Layer and arrange items in boxes
With fragile items, it’s best to fill a box completely without overdoing it. This will help prevent movement and shifting during transportation.
Corner protectors are also essential tools … especially for framed artwork or mirrors, as they protect the most vulnerable parts of these items. ”
Stack and layer items within a box to fill the entire space, starting with the heaviest items on the bottom. Place packing paper or extra fabric like towels and dish rags at the bottom of the box and between fragile items to keep them from bumping into one another. If there are open areas on the sides of items, stuff packing paper or rags there to keep them from moving.
7. Seal and label boxes
To close your box, hold the cardboard flaps as close together as possible. Start your piece of packing tape about halfway over the side of the box, taping over the flaps. Extend the piece again about halfway over the side of the box to seal.
Do this two or three times depending on the size of the box and how heavy it is. If the box requires extra support, follow the “H” method by taping the shorter, vertical sides of the box as well as the long horizontal flaps.
Once taped shut, label the box with a marker or your moving stickers so you know where it goes once inside your new home. To make unpacking easier, consider listing what’s in the box. Then, write “fragile” in large letters on the top and sides of the box so it’s visible from all angles.
» MORE: How to unpack after moving
8. Pack boxes carefully into the truck
Use load bars or straps within your moving truck to secure items and prevent shifting during transport. Consider a climate-controlled moving truck for added safety if you have sensitive items like antiques or fine art.
“Loading and transportation are equally important in ensuring the safety of fragile items,” Mariusz Baran said. “Strategic positioning within the moving vehicle is key, with heavier items placed at the bottom and lighter, more fragile items on top.”
» LEARN MORE: How to pack a moving truck
FAQ
Can I use newspapers to pack fragile items?
Yes, you can use newspapers to pack fragile items. Since newspaper isn’t as padded as traditional packing paper, wrap items at least twice to get the same level of protection. This is a great way to save money on packing supplies if you already have newspapers lying around.
How do I pack delicate items with irregular shapes, like vases or sculptures?
The best way to protect oddly shaped items is to find a type of packaging that fits it best, like an oversize or irregular-shaped box. If you can’t find a box that fits it, use rolled corrugated boxes instead. For extra protection, add double the amount of bubble wrap or packing paper you think you need to fill in any extra gaps in your box. And don’t forget to write “fragile” on the box.
Should I disassemble fragile furniture pieces before packing?
The safest way to transport fragile furniture is to take it apart before packing. Wrap each piece in packing paper or bubble wrap, and label what it is and how it should be reassembled. While this may seem like a lot of additional work, the extra protection will help prevent any damage during transportation.
Is it better to pack fragile items separately or with other belongings?
It’s best to pack fragile items separately from all other types of belongings so you can treat the boxes with the care they deserve. When mixed in with other boxes, it’s easy to get caught up in the moving process and forget whether you need to be extra careful with it.
How can I ensure fragile items are handled properly during the moving process?
To make sure fragile items are handled properly during the moving process, clearly label boxes as fragile and ask movers to be mindful of these items. Moving fragile items separately from regular items is also a great way to make sure movers know that those items should be treated with care.
What is double-boxing and when should I use it?
If you’re particularly worried about certain items, you may want to consider double boxing them. Generally, this involves wrapping the fragile item(s) in a smaller box, taping it up and putting it in a larger box with plenty of cushioning around the inner box. You’ll then tape and label the box as usual. This method can be helpful for more delicate art pieces, vases or glass, crystal or ceramic items.
Article sources
ConsumerAffairs writers primarily rely on government data, industry experts and original research from other reputable publications to inform their work. Specific sources for this article include:
- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), “Liability & Protection.” Accessed Nov. 19, 2025.
