How to pack fragile items for a move (a step-by-step guide)

Fragile items are where moves go wrong. A single badly packed box of glasses can turn a smooth move into a heartbreak. The good news is that packing fragiles well is mostly about the right materials and a few simple techniques. Here is how professional movers protect the breakable things, so yours arrive in one piece.

The materials you need

Good packing starts with the right supplies: sturdy double-wall boxes, bubble wrap, plain packing paper (newspaper ink can stain), packing tape, and a marker for labelling. Wardrobe and dish-pack boxes with dividers help for glassware. If you would rather not source all this, professional packing services in Dubai include export-grade materials in the price.

How to pack glasses and stemware

Wrap each glass individually in packing paper, then in bubble wrap for anything delicate. Stand glasses upright in the box, never on their sides, and use dividers or crumpled paper to keep them from touching. Fill every gap so nothing shifts. Heavier glasses go on the bottom, lighter ones on top.

How to pack plates and dishes

Plates travel best on their edge, standing vertically, not stacked flat, because they are far stronger against pressure that way. Wrap each plate in paper, band a few together with a little bubble wrap, and stand them upright in a well-padded box with paper below and above. Fill all gaps so there is no movement.

How to pack mirrors, glass and artwork

Tape a large X across the face of a mirror or framed glass to hold it if it cracks, then wrap in bubble wrap and cardboard corners. Pack flat items on their edge, standing upright, in a flat picture box, never lying flat where they can be sat on. Label them clearly as fragile.

How to pack electronics

Where possible, use the original boxes for TVs, monitors and speakers. If not, wrap screens in a blanket then bubble wrap, and support the corners. Photograph the cable connections before unplugging so reconnection is easy, and bag and label each set of cables. Keep electronics out of the heat and load them last on a summer move.

Labelling and loading

Mark every fragile box clearly on the top and sides, write which room it belongs to, and note "this way up". Load fragile boxes on top of heavier ones, never underneath. If a professional crew is handling your move, they will label an inventory and load everything to travel safely.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best way to pack glasses for moving?

Wrap each glass individually in packing paper, add bubble wrap for delicate items, and stand them upright in a divided box. Fill all gaps with paper so nothing shifts, and place heavier glasses at the bottom.

Should plates be packed flat or on their side?

On their side, standing vertically. Plates are much stronger against pressure edge-on than stacked flat. Wrap each one, stand them upright in a padded box, and fill any gaps.

How do I pack a mirror or framed picture?

Tape an X across the glass, wrap in bubble wrap with cardboard corner protectors, and pack it standing on its edge in a flat picture box. Never lay it flat where it could be sat on, and label it fragile.

Do movers provide packing materials?

Professional movers do. Star Edge packing services include export-grade boxes, bubble wrap and paper in the fixed price, so you do not need to source your own.

Can I just get the movers to pack the fragile items?

Yes. You can book full packing or partial packing, for example just the kitchen and fragile items, and pack the rest yourself. We price it accordingly during the free survey.