Expert Tips for Packing Fragile Items: Protect Your Valuables

Moving fragile items can be nerve-wracking. One wrong move and your grandmother's china or expensive electronics could be damaged. After 15+ years of professional moving experience, we're sharing our expert techniques for packing fragile items safely.

Essential Packing Supplies for Fragile Items

Before you start packing, gather these materials:

Sturdy boxes in various sizes (small boxes for heavy items like dishes)
- Bubble wrap - the #1 protector for fragile items
- Packing paper - unprinted newsprint works great
- Foam peanuts or packing foam
- Dish pack boxes - specifically designed for dishes and glassware
- Picture boxes - for artwork and mirrors
- Heavy-duty packing tape - don't skimp on quality
- Markers - for labeling boxes as "FRAGILE"
- Corner protectors - for picture frames and mirrors

## Packing Dishes and Glassware

Dishes are among the most commonly broken items during moves. Here's how to pack them properly:

### Plates and Bowls

1. Use a dish pack box - these have double-thick walls for extra protection
2. Create a cushion layer - 2-3 inches of crumpled packing paper at the bottom
3. Wrap each plate individually - lay the plate on packing paper, fold corners over, and secure
4. Stack vertically - place plates on their edge like records, not flat
5. Fill gaps - use bubble wrap or packing paper between plates
6. Don't overpack - leave 2-3 inches at the top for cushioning

### Glassware and Stemware

1. Wrap each glass separately - stuff the inside with crumpled paper first
2. Extra protection for stems - wrap wine glasses with extra bubble wrap around the stem
3. Use cell dividers - these create individual compartments for each glass
4. Pack upright - glasses should stand up in the box
5. Label the top - mark "THIS SIDE UP" clearly

### China and Fine Dinnerware

For valuable or antique china:

1. Use premium materials - bubble wrap for each piece
2. Double boxing - place packed china boxes inside larger boxes with cushioning between
3. Separate fragile pieces - don't pack delicate items with everyday dishes
4. Consider professional packing - for very valuable items, let Maloney's pack them

## Packing Electronics

Electronics are expensive and sensitive to impacts:

### TVs and Computer Monitors

1. Use original boxes if possible - they're designed for the specific dimensions
2. No original box? - wrap in bubble wrap and use a TV box from your mover
3. Protect the screen - place cardboard over the screen before wrapping
4. Remove stands - pack separately to prevent damage
5. Mark "FRAGILE - ELECTRONICS" clearly on all sides

### Computers and Gaming Consoles

1. Back up your data before moving
2. Take photos of cable connections for easy setup
3. Remove removable parts - pack keyboards, controllers, cables separately
4. Wrap in anti-static bubble wrap if available
5. Pack tightly - minimal movement inside the box

### Small Appliances

1. Clean thoroughly - no food residue or water
2. Secure moving parts - tape down toaster levers, coffee pot carafes
3. Use original packaging when possible
4. Wrap cords separately - don't wrap tightly around appliances

## Packing Artwork and Mirrors

Artwork and mirrors require special care:

### Framed Pictures

1. Make an X with painter's tape across the glass - if it breaks, tape holds pieces
2. Wrap in bubble wrap - bubble side away from glass
3. Use picture boxes - these are specifically sized for artwork
4. Pack vertically - stand frames on edge, never flat
5. Label clearly - "FRAGILE - GLASS - THIS SIDE UP"

### Canvas Paintings

1. Protect corners first with corner protectors
2. Wrap in glassine paper - won't stick to oil paintings
3. Use cardboard between paintings if stacking
4. Consider professional crating for valuable art

### Mirrors

1. Same tape X technique as pictures
2. Heavy-duty corner protectors are essential
3. Use mirror boxes - specially sized for mirrors
4. Never lay flat - always transport upright
5. Professional transport recommended for large mirrors

## Packing Lamps and Light Fixtures

Lamps seem simple but pack carefully:

1. Disassemble completely - base, rod, shade separate
2. Wrap shades individually in tissue paper or bubble wrap
3. Secure harps to prevent bending
4. Protect bulbs - wrap and pack separately (or discard)
5. Keep parts together - use labeled bags for screws and finials

## General Fragile Packing Tips

Follow these rules for all fragile items:

### The Heavier, The Smaller

- Pack heavy fragile items (dishes, books) in small boxes
- Prevents box bottom breakage
- Easier to carry safely

### Cushioning is Critical

- Bottom layer: 2-3 inches of cushioning material
- Between items: bubble wrap or packing paper
- Top layer: 2-3 inches more cushioning
- Fill all gaps: no items should shift when box is sealed

### Proper Labeling

Mark every box containing fragile items:
- "FRAGILE" on all sides in red marker
- Arrow indicating "THIS SIDE UP"
- Room destination (Kitchen, Living Room, etc.)
- Brief contents ("Dishes - China Cabinet")

### Weight Distribution

- Don't overload - if you can't lift it comfortably, it's too heavy
- Maximum 40-50 pounds for boxes with fragile items
- Test before sealing - gently shake box - no movement inside

## What NOT to Do

Avoid these common mistakes:

1. Don't use newspaper directly on dishes - ink transfers
2. Don't pack too loosely - items shift and break
3. Don't mix fragile with non-fragile - separate boxes
4. Don't fill gaps with heavy items - use soft materials only
5. Don't rush - fragile packing takes time

## Room-Specific Fragile Items

### Kitchen Fragiles

- Dishes, glassware, china
- Small appliances
- Glass cookware
- Wine bottles (check mover policies)

### Living Room Fragiles

- TV and entertainment equipment
- Picture frames and artwork
- Decorative vases and sculptures
- Lamps and light fixtures

### Bedroom Fragiles

- Mirrors
- Perfume bottles
- Jewelry (transport personally)
- Picture frames

### Bathroom Fragiles

- Mirrors
- Glass shelving
- Toiletries (seal lids with tape)

## When to Hire Professional Packers

Consider professional packing services from Maloney's Moving if you have:

- Extensive collections of dishes, glassware, or china
- Valuable artwork or antiques
- Large mirrors or glass furniture
- Limited time to pack properly
- Physical limitations preventing safe packing
- High-value electronics requiring special care

Our professional packers:
- Use commercial-grade packing materials
- Have years of experience with fragile items
- Work efficiently to save you time
- Provide insurance coverage for packed items
- Label everything systematically

## Insurance and Claims

Protect yourself:

1. Document valuable items - photos before packing
2. Keep receipts for expensive fragile items
3. Understand coverage - basic vs. full value protection
4. Inspect at delivery - note any damage immediately
5. File claims promptly - most movers have time limits

## Unpacking Fragile Items

Don't rush the unpacking process:

1. Unpack fragile boxes first - prevents accidental crushing
2. Check each item before discarding packing materials
3. Save packing materials for future moves or storage
4. Wash dishes before use - remove any dust or packing residue
5. Inspect for damage - file claims within specified timeframe

## South Jersey Moving Considerations

Living in South Jersey means some special considerations:

- Humidity - extra care for artwork and electronics during summer
- Temperature swings - electronics sensitive to extreme temps in truck
- Shore moves in summer - heavy traffic means longer transport time
- Historic homes - narrow stairs and doorways require extra care

## Let the Professionals Help

At Maloney's Moving, we've safely moved thousands of fragile items throughout South Jersey. From antique china in Cherry Hill to valuable artwork in Voorhees, we treat your belongings like our own.

Call (856) 223-7940 for:
- Professional packing services
- Premium packing materials
- Full value protection insurance
- Experienced, careful movers
- Free moving quotes

Don't risk your valuables with improper packing. Let our 15+ years of experience work for you!