Fragile items — glassware, crockery, electronics, mirrors, decorative pieces — are usually what people worry about most during a move. A bit of extra care in how you pack them makes the biggest difference.
Use the Right Materials
Bubble wrap, packing paper, and sturdy boxes are worth the small extra cost. Avoid using old newspaper directly against glass or ceramic, since the ink can transfer and the paper alone doesn’t cushion well — wrap items in plain paper or bubble wrap first.
Pack Heavier Items at the Bottom
In any box holding multiple fragile items, place heavier pieces at the bottom and lighter ones on top. This prevents crushing and keeps the box stable when stacked with others.
Wrap Each Item Individually
Don’t rely on loose padding in a shared box. Wrap plates, glasses, and ornaments individually, and use crumpled paper to fill any empty space so items can’t shift during transport.
Use Dish-Pack Boxes for Kitchenware
Double-walled “dish-pack” boxes are sturdier than regular boxes and are worth using for your most breakable kitchen items — plates should be packed on their edge (like records), not flat, which distributes pressure more evenly.
Protect Electronics Properly
Where possible, pack electronics in their original boxes. If you don’t have them, wrap items in anti-static bubble wrap and avoid direct contact between the item and the box’s edges. Keep cables and remotes together in labelled bags.
Label Boxes Clearly as “Fragile”
Mark fragile boxes on multiple sides, and note which way is “up” if it matters for the item inside. This tells anyone handling the box — including you, later — to be careful and to avoid stacking heavy things on top.
Consider Professional Packing
If you have a large number of fragile or valuable items, a professional packing service (/services/packing-services/) uses the right materials and techniques to reduce the risk of damage — especially useful for glass, electronics, and antiques during longer or intercity moves (/cities-we-serve/).
Final Thoughts
Good packing is really about patience — individual wrapping, proper cushioning, and clear labelling. If you’d rather not take the risk yourself, TruckPack’s packing team can handle your fragile items from start to finish.