How to Pack Fragile Items for Moving and Storage

Published: May 01, 2019

Fragile belongings often have monetary or sentimental value attached. Whether it’s dinnerware that’s been passed down from your grandparents or Christmas ornaments from your childhood, ensuring that your fragile belongings remain secure during the storage or moving process is an important part of the moving process.

Obtaining the Right Packing Materials

It's impossible to start the packing process without the proper packing materials. Here are some packing essentials you'll need:

• Bubble wrap
• Old newspapers
• Tissue paper
• Old towels or blankets
• Styrofoam peanuts
• Sturdy cardboard boxes
• Durable packing tape
• Labels and stickers
• Black permanent marker

How to Pack Coffee Mugs and Teacups

There are only three easy steps to packing coffee mugs and teacups.

1. The first step in wrapping coffee mugs and teacups is to protect the handles. Crumple up newspaper can be used to help fill gaps.
2. Place the mug on top of a piece of newspaper on its side. Then, carefully roll the mug or cup forward ensuring the entire mug is covered. Additional pages or bubble wrap can be used to protect the mug further,
3. Once the mugs are wrapped, place them into a bubble-wrap lined box. Fill any excess space in the box with crumpled newspaper, more bubble wrap, or packing peanuts, tape the box shut and label it "Fragile."

How to Pack Wine Glasses

Wine glasses are one of the most fragile items to pack and nd require the use of multiple-celled boxes and tissue paper

1. Fill the globe completely, but not too tight with crumpled newspaper
2. Wrap the glass entirely with tissue paper, 2-3 layers are recommended. Place the glass into a well fitting cell.
3. Fill the rest of the box with additional packing materials and place bubble wrap on top of the glasses to fully secure the contents.
4. Seal the box securely and mark as “fragile”

How to Pack Plates and Dishes

1. Wrap each plate individually with bubble wrap, make sure enough layers are used in order to prevent chipping
2. Line the bottom of the box with bubble wrap or newspaper, multiple layers are recommended. When packing the dishes into the box, place them vertically to help avoid rattling and vibration which can damage the plates.
3. Fill in any gaps remaining with cushioning and make sure everything fits snug, but not tight. Seal the box properly and label accordingly.

Instead of spending money replacing damaged items, take time to properly protect and pack your belongings. However, the best way to ensure you choose a professional company to handle all your portable storage and moving needs.

Whether you’re moving cross-country or simply in need of a portable storage solution, UNITS can help. To get started, find your local UNITS center to get a free quote on your UNITS container today!