Nothing ruins moving day like opening a box to find broken glassware or chipped furniture. Fragile items need special care and attention, especially when you’re moving across Manchester’s busy streets or further afield.
This guide covers how to pack, protect, and transport your delicate belongings safely so everything arrives in one piece.
1. Start with the Right Packing Materials
The first step in protecting fragile items is using the right materials. Cheap boxes or thin wrapping might save a few pounds upfront but can cost you much more if your valuables break.
It’s worth investing in high-quality supplies or taking advantage of free packing boxes available with every storage unit at Cheap Storage Manchester.
Essentials for packing fragile items:
- Double-walled cardboard boxes
- Bubble wrap or packing paper
- Stretch wrap for furniture and mirrors
- Strong packing tape
- Soft padding like towels or blankets
- “Fragile” stickers or labels
Choose boxes that are small enough to carry easily and sturdy enough to hold their shape when stacked. Avoid overpacking, as heavy boxes are more likely to tear or collapse.
2. Wrap Each Item Individually
Never pack fragile items loose in a box. Each piece needs its own layer of protection.
Start by wrapping every item in packing paper or bubble wrap. Secure with tape to keep it from unrolling, and make sure there’s cushioning between items inside each box.
Best practices for wrapping:
- Use two layers of paper for glass and ceramics
- Wrap plates vertically, not stacked
- Fill gaps inside glasses and vases with paper
- Add extra padding around delicate edges
- Cushion the bottom and top of each box
Once you’ve wrapped everything, gently shake the box. If you hear movement, add more padding.
3. Label Boxes Clearly and Handle with Care
Mark each box that contains fragile items clearly on all sides. Labels like “FRAGILE”, “GLASS”, or “THIS WAY UP” help movers handle them properly.
If you’re putting these boxes into storage, this also helps you find them quickly later. You can even use coloured tape to highlight fragile boxes at a glance.
Tips for labelling:
- Write the room name and contents
- Use bold, legible writing
- Add handling notes like “Do not stack”
- Mark orientation arrows for upright items
When storing valuable or fragile items long-term, consider safe and secure storage with 24/7 monitoring for extra peace of mind.
4. Use the Right Technique for Each Type of Item
Not all fragile belongings need the same approach. Different materials and shapes require specific methods to stay protected.
Glassware and dishes:
- Line boxes with soft materials
- Wrap plates individually and place on their edge
- Stack glasses upright with padding between each layer
Mirrors and framed pictures:
- Place cardboard corners on frames
- Wrap in bubble wrap, then in a blanket
- Label as “Glass – Do Not Lay Flat”
Electronics:
- Use original boxes if available
- Remove batteries and cables
- Wrap screens separately with soft cloths
Lamps and light fittings:
- Remove bulbs and shades
- Wrap the base and shade individually
- Pack upright if possible
If you’re unsure where to store larger fragile items temporarily, our furniture storage options are ideal for keeping them secure during your move.
5. Fill Empty Space in Boxes
Empty space inside boxes allows movement — and movement leads to damage. Use soft materials to fill any gaps and keep items firmly in place.
Good options for padding:
- Scrunched packing paper
- Towels or blankets
- Foam inserts
- Clothing for lightweight cushioning
Avoid using newspaper directly on valuable items as the ink can transfer.
When stacking boxes in a van or storage unit, keep fragile boxes on top to prevent them from being crushed.
6. Disassemble When Possible
Large or awkwardly shaped items like tables, lamps, or shelving can often be dismantled for safer transport.
Steps to disassemble safely:
- Remove screws, bolts, or legs where possible
- Store small parts in labelled bags
- Tape parts to the main item or keep them together in one box
- Wrap dismantled pieces individually
Storing disassembled furniture can save significant space in a home storage unit, making it easier to access items when you’re ready to reassemble.
7. Use Professional Help for High-Value Items
Some items are too valuable or delicate to risk moving yourself. Artwork, antiques, or large glass furniture should be handled by professionals with the right equipment.
When to call for help:
- Oversized glass tables or mirrors
- Antique furniture or family heirlooms
- Fragile artwork or collectibles
- Items worth more than your insurance limit
If you’re moving locally, our free collections and removals service can safely transport fragile items directly into storage for you.
8. Avoid Overloading Boxes
Even the strongest boxes have limits. Overloading increases the risk of dropping, crushing, or damaging fragile contents.
Keep box weights manageable — no more than 15–20kg each — and use smaller boxes for heavier items like crockery.
Tips to avoid overpacking:
- Use multiple boxes instead of one heavy one
- Mix lightweight items with heavier ones
- Reinforce the bottom of every box with extra tape
- Test lifting before sealing completely
9. Protect Fragile Furniture and Large Items
Glass cabinets, wardrobes with mirrors, and marble tables all need special attention.
Protection steps:
- Wrap corners with cardboard and foam
- Use moving blankets to prevent scratches
- Cover with stretch wrap to keep drawers or doors closed
- Avoid stacking heavy objects on top
If your new home isn’t ready yet, keep larger items safe in secure storage until you can move them in.
10. Unpack with Care
Once you arrive, take your time unpacking. It’s tempting to rush, but that’s when breakages happen.
Safe unpacking tips:
- Place boxes in their designated rooms before opening
- Unwrap items on a soft surface like a carpet or blanket
- Check each box carefully before discarding packaging
- Recycle packing materials where possible
If you’re moving in stages, short-term storage can help you unpack gradually without cluttering your new home.
Final Thoughts
Packing fragile items doesn’t have to be stressful. With good materials, a bit of patience, and careful handling, you can protect your belongings and move with confidence.
If you’re preparing for a move in or around Manchester, Cheap Storage Manchester offers secure storage, free van hire, and 50% off your first 9 weeks to make your move easier.
Learn more about our moving home storage options or get a quick quote on our contact page.