How to Pack Fragile Items for Moving: Pro Tips to Prevent Breakage

Packing your home is stressful enough—add in fragile items like glassware, antiques, or electronics, and it becomes a nerve-racking puzzle. At BF Happy Movers, we’ve helped hundreds of Pensacola families move safely, and today, we’re sharing pro-level tips on how to pack your breakables like a boss.

1. Gather the Right Packing Supplies

Before you touch a single dish or frame, stock up on:

• Bubble wrap
• Packing paper or newspaper
• Sturdy cardboard boxes (small to medium)
• Packing tape
• Dish dividers or foam inserts (optional but useful)
• "Fragile" and “This Side Up” labels or markers

💡 Pro Tip: Avoid large boxes for fragile items—they tend to get too heavy and may shift during transport.

2. Wrap Items Individually

Every fragile item should be wrapped separately. For best results:

• Use two layers of packing paper or bubble wrap.
• Secure with tape to prevent slippage.
• For glassware or mugs, stuff the inside with paper too.

✅ Example:

Wrap wine glasses by the stem first, then the cup, then secure with more wrap before placing in the box.

3. Pad the Box from the Bottom

Create a shock-absorbing base by padding the bottom of the box with:

• Crumpled paper
• Bubble wrap
• Foam peanuts

This helps cushion any impact from the ground up during the move.

4. Pack Strategically

• Heaviest items go on the bottom.
• Lighter items should go on top.
• Leave no space—fill gaps with paper or towels.

Stack vertically when possible and keep like-items together to reduce movement.

5. Label Clearly & Load Properly

• Mark boxes as “FRAGILE” on all sides.
• Write “This Side Up” to help with orientation.
• Let your movers know which boxes need extra care during loading.

If you’re using our packing services in Pensacola, we do all of this for you—professionally and quickly.

6. What Not to Do When Packing Fragile Items

• ❌ Don’t use newspaper on surfaces like white porcelain—it can transfer ink.
• ❌ Don’t overload boxes—heavier isn't better.
• ❌ Don’t leave extra space in boxes—it invites breakage.

Absolutely! Here's the rewritten "Specific Fragile Items & How to Pack Them" section without using a table, while keeping it clear and easy to read:

Bonus: How to Pack Common Fragile Items

Here’s how to protect some of the most commonly damaged items during a move:

🥄 Plates

Pack them vertically, like records, rather than stacking them flat. Place a layer of bubble wrap or cardboard between each plate, and wrap the entire stack tightly to avoid shifting.

🪞 Mirrors

Wrap mirrors in bubble wrap or foam padding, then place them inside a mirror box (or a flat, well-fitting box). Use masking tape to create a large “X” across the glass—this helps minimize shattering if the glass breaks.

📺 TVs & Screens

If possible, use the original box your TV came in. If not, wrap the screen in a thick blanket, add corner protectors, and secure it in a box made for electronics. Always keep it upright during transport.

💡 Lamps

Disassemble lamps before packing. Wrap the base and shade separately, and secure any cords or light bulbs in a small labeled bag. Use towels or bubble wrap to fill the space around the lamp in the box.

🖼️ Framed Art & Photos

Wrap artwork in glassine paper to prevent sticking, then add bubble wrap and secure it tightly. Use a sturdy box that's close to the frame's size to prevent it from sliding around during the move.

Moving in or out of Pensacola? Let Us Handle the Fragile Stuff

If packing breakables feels overwhelming, don’t stress—BF Happy Movers offers full-service packing and moving throughout Pensacola, FL, with extra care for fragile items. Call us or request a quote today and move with peace of mind.