How to Pack Fragile Items Like a Pro Mover

Professional movers don't improvise — they show up with double-walled dish boxes, 2" packing paper, small bubble wrap, glass dividers, and stretch film. Skipping the right supplies is the #1 reason fragile items break in transit. See our guide to the best moving boxes and supplies for exactly what to buy.

Always pack heavier items in small boxes (under 50 lbs) and lighter items in medium boxes. Never use a box larger than 18" for dishes, books, or anything breakable.

Lay 2–3 sheets of packing paper flat, place the item diagonally, and roll while tucking the corners. Stemware gets paper stuffed inside the bowl first, then wrapped, then placed in a glass divider cell.

Plates go vertically in dish boxes — never stacked flat. Vertical plates distribute load and survive bumps. This single trick prevents 90% of plate breakage.

Every box needs 2" of crumpled paper on the bottom and top, with no empty space inside. Shake the box gently — if you hear movement, add more fill.

Label every fragile box on TWO sides with 'FRAGILE — THIS SIDE UP' in red marker. Crews load fragile boxes last and on top, but only if they can see the label from any angle on the truck.

Flat-screen TVs need their original box or a TV-specific carton with foam corners. Wrap art in glassine paper, then bubble, then a picture box. Antiques and anything irreplaceable should go on a custom crate or be moved separately — many of our customers add this when they request a long-distance quote.