How to Pack Fragile Items and Protect Your Belongings During a Move
To pack fragile items for moving, wrap each piece separately, fill every gap so nothing can shift, use small double-wall cartons, and mark the box on at least two sides. Most breakage in transit comes from empty space inside the carton, not from the journey itself.
This guide covers the materials you need, the method for each kind of fragile item, how to protect furniture and appliances, and what to check when the goods are delivered.
What packing materials do I need for fragile items?
| Material | Use it for |
|---|---|
| Double-wall corrugated cartons, small and medium | Crockery, glassware, books. Small boxes for heavy or breakable items |
| Bubble wrap | Glass, electronics, picture frames |
| Packing paper or newsprint | First wrap for plates and glasses, and for filling gaps |
| Stretch film | Holding drawers and doors shut; outer layer on furniture |
| Corrugated sheets and foam | Edges of TVs, mirrors, glass table tops |
| Furniture blankets | Wooden furniture, fridge, washing machine |
| Strong tape and a marker | Sealing seams in an H pattern and labelling |
If you are packing some things yourself to save money, see the DIY packing guide for what to buy and what to leave to the movers.
How do I pack glassware, plates and crockery?
- Line the bottom of a small carton with crumpled paper, about two fingers deep.
- Wrap each plate in paper and stand plates on edge, like files, never flat in a stack.
- Stuff glasses and cups with paper, wrap each one, and place them upright.
- Put heavier pieces at the bottom and lighter ones on top, with a paper layer between.
- Fill every gap. Close the box and shake it gently; if you hear movement, add more filling.
- Tape the seams and write FRAGILE and THIS SIDE UP on two sides and the top.
How do I pack a TV, computer and other electronics?
- Use the original box and foam if you kept them. Nothing fits better.
- Otherwise: soft cloth over the screen, a corrugated sheet cut to size, bubble wrap around the whole set, then a snug carton or a wooden crate for large screens.
- Keep a TV upright. Never lay a flat-panel TV on its screen or stack anything on it.
- Photograph cable connections before unplugging, and bag cables and remotes with a label.
- Back up computers and phones before the move.
- Let electronics reach room temperature before switching on, especially after a monsoon or winter move.
How should a fridge and washing machine be prepared?
- Fridge: empty and defrost it 24 hours before. Wipe it dry, remove or tape the shelves, and tape the doors. Move it upright. At the new home, let it stand for a few hours before switching on.
- Washing machine: drain the inlet and outlet hoses and run a short spin to clear water. Front-load machines should have their transit bolts fitted to hold the drum.
- Air conditioner: have a technician recover the gas and remove the unit; do not let it be pulled off the wall.
- Gas stove and cylinder: close the regulator, disconnect, and carry the cylinder according to your gas agency's rules.
How do I pack mirrors, glass table tops and paintings?
- Tape an X across the glass. It will not stop a crack, but it holds the pieces if one happens.
- Cover both faces with corrugated sheet or foam, with extra on the corners.
- Wrap in bubble wrap and tape fully.
- Carry and load on edge, never flat, and never under other goods.
For marble temples, large glass table tops, chandeliers and valuable art, ask for a wooden crate. It is quoted separately and is worth the cost.
How is furniture protected during a move?
- Dismantle beds, wardrobes and dining tables where they are designed to come apart. Bag the screws and tape the bag to the piece.
- Wrap wooden surfaces in a blanket or corrugated sheet first, then stretch film. Film directly on polished wood can mark it.
- Protect corners and legs with extra padding.
- Empty drawers of heavy or loose items.
- Roll mattresses in plastic covers.
What protects goods in the truck?
- A closed container keeps out rain and dust.
- Loading order: heavy and sturdy items first and low, fragile cartons on top and never under weight.
- Lashing: furniture should be tied so it cannot slide when the truck brakes.
- An inventory list signed at pickup, so every carton is counted at delivery.
- Valuables with you: jewellery, cash, documents, medicines and laptops travel in your own bag.
What should I check when the goods arrive?
Count the cartons against the inventory. Open the fragile boxes and check the TV, fridge and glass items before the crew leaves. If something is damaged, photograph it with the packing still on, write it on the delivery receipt, and tell the mover in writing the same day. The damage claim guide explains the steps, and transit insurance is the cover to consider for high-value goods.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best way to pack glass items for shifting?
Wrap each piece in paper, then bubble wrap, stand plates on edge, stuff glasses with paper, use a small double-wall carton and fill every gap so nothing moves.
Can I lay a TV flat while moving?
No. Keep a flat-panel TV upright, padded on the screen side, with nothing stacked against it.
How long before shifting should I defrost the fridge?
About 24 hours. Empty it, switch it off, leave the door open, and wipe it dry before it is wrapped.
Do packers and movers bring packing material?
Yes. A full-service quote includes cartons, bubble wrap, stretch film and furniture padding. Wooden crating for very fragile items is usually an extra line.
Is bubble wrap enough for a mirror?
Not on its own. Add corrugated sheet or foam on both faces and the corners, and make sure it is carried and loaded on edge.
Who is responsible if something breaks?
It depends on your agreement and whether you took transit insurance. Note damage on the delivery receipt and report it in writing at once; the damage claim guide explains what to do.