How to Pack China, Breakables & Fragile Items for Moving & Storage

The antique vase that has been in the family for generations.

Your grandmother’s prize China set.

The pricey wine glasses you purchased to impress the snooty, wine-loving neighbors.

Shattered. Blasted to smithereens. Even the slightest chip is enough to ruin the satisfaction of ownership.

Let’s roll back the tape to discover what you could have done differently to protect your most valuable possessions during your cross-country move.

What You’ll Need

Before you begin packing your fragile items, gather these essential materials:

• Sturdy boxes in various sizes (preferably double-walled for extra durability)
• Packing paper or unprinted newsprint
• Bubble wrap to cushion fragile items
• Dish dividers or partitioned boxes (for plates, glasses, or bowls)
• Foam pouches for added protection
• Packing tape to secure your boxes
• Permanent markers for labeling
• Fragile stickers to alert movers to handle with care

Now, you’re ready to tackle any item, no matter how delicate.

Packing Specific Fragile Items

1. China Sets

China is one of the most delicate items to pack. Take your time and do it right.

• Wrap each piece individually: Use packing paper or foam pouches for dishes, cups, and bowls. Avoid using newspaper, as the ink may transfer to the China.
• Stack vertically, not flat: Plates are less likely to crack when stored on their edges. Use a dish divider or stuff plenty of padding between each plate.
• Cushion the bottom and sides of the box: Line the box with bubble wrap or crumpled packing paper for added safety.
• Label the box “Fragile” or “China.” Mark the contents clearly so they’re handled with extra care.

2. Glassware & Stemware

Glasses and stemware are particularly prone to breakage due to their thin walls and delicate stems.

• Use partitioned boxes: Look for boxes with pre-made compartments or create your own dividers with cardboard.
• Wrap each item individually: Focus on the stems and rims, which are the most fragile parts. Bubble wrap works exceptionally well here.
• Fill empty spaces: Use crumpled packing paper to prevent glasses from shifting during transit.

3. Plates & Dishes

• Use plenty of padding: Layer bubble wrap or packing paper between each plate to prevent contact.
• Pack in small stacks: Don’t stack too many plates together, which increases the risk of breakage.
• Place vertically: Just as with China, plates are less likely to break when stood on their edges in the box.

4. Cups & Mugs

Heavy mugs might look indestructible, but their handles are a weak spot.

• Wrap the entire mug, including the handle: Pay special attention to covering the handle to avoid chips or cracks.
• Nest them carefully: Smaller mugs can be nested inside larger ones, but only if both are wrapped securely.

5. Lamps & Lampshades

Packing lamps and shades requires thoughtful preparation since they’re awkwardly shaped.

• If possible, disassemble the lamp: Separate the base, neck, and shade. Wrap each part individually.
• Use specialty boxes for lampshades: Pack the shade in a box slightly larger than its size and avoid placing any weight on it.
• Wrap the cord: Bundle it neatly and secure it with a twist tie or rubber band.

6. Antiques & Heirlooms

• Double-box fragile antiques: Place the item in a small, well-cushioned box, then insert that box into a larger one filled with extra padding.
• Use specialty padding for odd shapes: Foam corners, peanuts, or custom-cut pieces of foam are great for irregularly shaped items.
• Document the condition: Take photos of your antiques before packing if you need to file an insurance claim.

7. Miscellaneous Fragile Items

Focus on creating a snug, padded environment in the box for other delicate belongings like figurines, mirrors, or electronics.

• For mirrors and frames, wrap them in bubble wrap and use corner protectors.
• Electronics should be placed in their original boxes, if available, or wrapped in anti-static foam.

Packing & Loading Tips for Moving Trucks

Load your truck strategically to keep fragile items safe.

• Start by loading heavy, non-fragile boxes at the bottom of the truck.
• Place items evenly to avoid tip-overs during the move.
• Stack lighter, fragile boxes on heavier ones, but never overload them.
• Use straps to secure furniture and boxes. This reduces the chance of anything moving in transit.

Storing Fragile Items Safely

If you’re placing items in storage, long-term concerns like temperature and humidity become important.

• Choose climate-controlled storage: Fluctuations in temperature or humidity can damage fragile items over time.
• Avoid stacking heavy items: Fragile boxes should remain on top to prevent compression or breakage.
• Inspect the storage unit regularly: Check your items to ensure they hold up well.

FAQs: Packing & Storing Fragile Items

Q: What’s the best way to move breakable items over long distances?

Use double-wall boxes, secure padding, and pack tightly to prevent shifting. Avoid overpacking boxes to keep them manageable.

Q: Can I reuse old boxes for fragile items?

We don’t recommend it. Old boxes may lack the strength to protect fragile items and are more likely to collapse.

Q: Can I use towels or clothes to cushion fragile items?

Soft items like towels can be used for extra padding, but they’re less protective than bubble wrap or foam.

Q: Do I need insurance for my fragile items?

Consider purchasing moving or storage insurance if they’re especially valuable or hold sentimental value.

Q: Why should plates and dishes be packed on their edges?

Plates are naturally stronger on their edges and are less likely to experience pressure cracks compared to being laid flat.

Q: Should I use professional movers for fragile items?

Professional movers experienced in handling delicate items can provide peace of mind, especially for antiques or valuable fragile pieces.

Q: What materials should I avoid using for packing?

Avoid using newspapers for wrapping (ink transfer), worn-out boxes, and packing peanuts for heavy items (they don’t offer enough structured support).