Packing fragile items is one of the more stressful aspects of a household move. Most delicate items are either expensive or sentimental, and it’s natural to be worried about transporting them safely. Taking a few extra steps during the packing process can better protect these important items.
Wrap Items Individually
Protect fragile items by padding them each individually; this way, if they bump up against another item in the same box, it significantly lessens the chance of cracks or breaks occurring. Bubble wrap or packing paper is ideal, especially for those non-replaceable items.
Use Small Boxes
You want to be especially careful with items such as glass, china, crystal, or porcelain. Pack like-items together in smaller sized boxes. Small boxes are easier to manage, eliminating the possibility of a box being too heavy and items inside breaking under pressure. Take care not to overpack any boxes containing fragile items, and be sure the boxes used are substantial, not flimsy. Or consider using dish pack boxes specifically designed with a double layer of corrugated cardboard for packing delicate dishes.
Place Heaviest Items on the Bottom
Nothing is worse than opening your boxes in your new home and discovering your breakables have been shattered. After securely wrapping your items, place the heaviest ones at the bottom of the box to ensure nothing is crushed. This also helps support the base of the box to keep it sturdier.
Use Extra Padding
Pack fragile items carefully and systematically. Using extra padding can go a long way for the protection of these essential items.
- Cushion the bottom of the box with several layers of crumpled packing paper
- Place padding or a piece of cardboard between layers
- Stuff vases, jars, glasses, and other items with hollow space with paper or cloth
- Use dividers for glasses and stemware
Ideally, you want to leave no space in boxes containing breakable items. Use packing peanuts, dishtowels, socks, or packing paper to fill up all available space to reduce shifting within the box.
Tape Bottom of Boxes
To ensure boxes don’t separate, secure the boxes’ bottom with a generous amount of tape. This will help keep the box’s integrity under the weight of the fragile contents inside. While you’re taping boxes, give the seams on all sides a strip of tape as well for extra reinforcement.
Label Boxes
Clearly label any box containing fragile items with a visible label (a black Sharpie with larger lettering will do the trick – you can also buy tape marked “fragile”). Clear labeling ensures anyone handling boxes with fragile items knows to be extra careful when placing the box for transport.
Move Your Fragile Items Safely
Moving involves a lot of stress, especially if transporting fragile items, such as grandma’s china, an antique clock, or another family heirloom. Even if not expensive or sentimental, you don’t want to have to replace your everyday dishes either. Plan ahead of time, pack these items with care and don’t rush. These three steps will ensure your breakables will transport with ease.
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