How to Pack Fragile Items Like a Professional

The golden rule: movement = damage

If something can move inside its box during transport, it will eventually break. Every fragile item needs to be wrapped, cushioned, and immobilised.

Glassware and dishes

• Wrap each piece individually in packing paper (not newspaper — ink transfers).
• Stack plates vertically, not flat. They survive impact much better on their edge.
• Fill all empty space with crumpled paper — boxes should not rattle when shaken.

Mirrors and framed art

• Tape a large X across the glass — if it cracks, the tape holds the pieces in place.
• Wrap in bubble wrap then sandwich between two pieces of cardboard.
• Always transport upright, never flat.

TVs and screens

• Use the original box if you still have it. Otherwise, bubble wrap the screen twice.
• Mark "THIS WAY UP" and "FRAGILE" in three places.
• Never place anything on top of a TV in the van.

Lamps and ceramics

Remove bulbs and shades, wrap separately. Hollow ceramics get crumpled paper stuffed inside before being wrapped — this stops them collapsing from outside pressure.

The "shake test"

Before you tape a box shut, lift it and shake gently. If you hear anything move, add more padding. If the box is silent, it's ready.