Packing Tips for Fragile Removals

You’ve probably read our general packing tips if you’re preparing to move house. Here’s more advice about packing for fragile removals. Often these items are precious, not necessarily for their monetary value, but also for their sentimental and emotional value.

You know what we’re talking about: special glassware you got as a wedding present, the bone china tea set you inherited, an expensive bottle of wine you were saving for a special occasion and so on. Nobody wants an unpleasant surprise when you unpack at the other end, so here’s what you should do to make sure these items are securely packed.
 

Preparing to Pack

Get your packing materials well ahead of time and allow more time than you’d expect to need to do your packing. Packing in a hurry is a recipe for breakages. Poorly packed items are more likely to get damaged, regardless of how much care is taken in moving them. One bump on the road could be all it takes if fragile items aren’t properly packed.
 

Choosing the Right Box

Lighter items go in big boxes. Heavier items go in small boxes. One person should be able to comfortably lift each box. If in doubt, use small boxes for fragile items to avoid putting too much weight in each box. Excess weight or poor weight distribution may crush particularly delicate items.
 

Packing Items in the Box

First make sure every seam and corner of the box has been sealed with strong packing tape.

Create an additional layer of cushioning on the bottom and sides of the box. There are packing materials for this purpose, but if you’re on a budget, you can use small cushions or soft clothing like folded jerseys and sweaters.

The way to protect each fragile item is to enclose it in a pocket of air. Don’t spare the bubble wrap. Use several layers. If you can get air bag suspension packing, this is even better. Don’t wrap fragile items in paper alone and never use newspaper, which leaves nasty stains.

For items with weak or thin points, such as the stem of a wine glass, put additional packing around it and secure it with tape.

Organise each box load before you pack it, placing heavy items at the bottom and lighter items at the top. Carefully stack your items into the box, making sure glassware, china and crystal is packed standing up for maximum strength. Fill in odd spaces with packing peanuts or scrunched up balls of paper. You can also use socks, hand towels or similar items.

Do not overload or overcrowd the box. Each item should sit securely in the box so it doesn’t move, but without pressure from other items. Leave space for cushioning at the top so all six sides are protected. Secure the seams and corners of the box with strong packing tape. Check the box is properly packed by picking it up. You shouldn’t hear or feel anything moving about inside.
 

Clearly Label Boxes

In big clear block letters write FRAGILE and TOP LOAD ONLY on each of the boxes containing your fragile items. Movers don’t know what you’ve put in each box, so this leaves no room for mistakes.
 

Get an Insurance Quote

Moving insurance provides peace of mind no matter how far you’re going. It’s especially recommended if you have packed your own boxes and often costs less than you’d expect.

Finally, unpack your fragile items with the same care as when you packed them. When they’re safely back in the sideboard, the job is done. If it all sounds a bit too hard, talk to us about fragile removals. We have the skills and specialist packaging materials to protect your most precious possessions.