Packing & Protecting Fragile Items During a Move

Start With the Right Packing Materials

Using proper packing supplies makes a significant difference when protecting fragile belongings. Quality materials provide cushioning and prevent items from shifting inside boxes. Consider gathering these materials before you start packing: 



• Sturdy moving boxes in various sizes 
• Bubble wrap or packing paper 
• Foam sheets or padding 
• Packing tape 
• Dish packs or specialty boxes for glassware 
• Packing peanuts or crumpled paper for filling empty spaces 
• Permanent markers for labeling boxes 

Professional movers often use protective materials like moving blankets and foam sheets to shield fragile belongings from scratches or other damage during transport. 

Wrap Each Item Individually

One of the most common mistakes people make when packing fragile items is grouping them together without enough protection. Every delicate item should be wrapped separately. Follow these basic steps: 



• Wrap glassware, dishes, and decorative items individually with packing paper or bubble wrap 
• Secure the wrapping with tape if needed 
• Add an extra layer of protection for particularly delicate pieces 
• Place heavier fragile items at the bottom of the box and lighter items on top 

Individual wrapping helps prevent objects from bumping into each other during transportation. 

Choose the Right Boxes for Fragile Items

Not all boxes are ideal for fragile belongings. Smaller boxes are often safer because they limit the amount of movement inside the box and prevent overloading. When selecting boxes: 



• Use smaller boxes for heavier fragile items like dishes or ceramics 
• Use specialized dish or glass pack boxes when possible 
• Avoid overfilling boxes 
• Reinforce the bottom of each box with extra tape 

The goal is to keep boxes manageable and stable while moving. 

Cushion Empty Spaces Inside Boxes

Even well-wrapped items can break if they shift during the move. Filling empty spaces in boxes prevents movement and provides additional protection. You can use: 



• Packing peanuts 
• Crumpled packing paper 
• Foam padding 
• Towels or soft household fabrics 

Make sure there are no gaps between items or along the sides of the box. 

Label Fragile Boxes Clearly

Clear labeling helps movers and helpers know which boxes require extra care. Be sure to: 



• Mark boxes with “FRAGILE” on multiple sides 
• Indicate which side should remain upright 
• Write the destination room on the box 

These labels help ensure that fragile boxes are handled carefully and placed in the correct location during unloading. 

Pack Certain Fragile Items Separately

Some belongings require extra consideration because of their size, value, or delicate structure. Items that often benefit from specialized packing include: 



• Mirrors and framed artwork 
• Electronics and computer equipment 
• Lamps and light fixtures 
• Antiques and collectibles 

Whenever possible, transport extremely valuable or sentimental items personally rather than placing them in the moving truck. 

Work With a Moving Company That Prioritizes Care

Even with careful packing, the quality of the moving team handling your belongings plays an important role in protecting fragile items. At Lamanna Moving, LLC, our moving company provides residential moving services throughout the Albany, Clifton Park, and Saratoga, NY area. We have proudly been family-owned since 1928, serving homeowners with packing and moving assistance. Some key aspects of our approach include: 

• A strong focus on hiring experienced movers 
• Careful handling of furniture and fragile belongings 
• Packing, labeling, transport, and setup services 
• The owner being present on approximately 98% of moving jobs 

Our team takes pride in handling customers’ belongings carefully to prevent items from being broken, damaged, or lost during the moving process. If you are planning a move in the Capital Region, working with a local moving company that emphasizes careful handling can help make the process smoother and reduce the risk to fragile items. Contact us today to request a free quote!