Packing is one of the most important parts of a successful move. It is not just about placing belongings into boxes but about making sure they are safe and protected during transport. Fragile items, heavy appliances, and bulky furniture are often the most difficult things to move, and they are also the ones most likely to break or get damaged if you do not pack them correctly.
Whether you are moving across town, across the country, or moving into a new home, the way you prepare and secure your belongings can save you time, money, and stress. With the right packing techniques and materials, you can keep your items safe, reduce the risk of accidents, and make moving day much smoother.
Key Takeaways
- Fragile items such as glassware, dishes, and electronics need individual wrapping, cushioning, and clear labels to stay protected during a move
- Appliances should always be cleaned, disconnected, and secured before transport, with shelves and doors packed or strapped separately
- Furniture is safest when disassembled, wrapped with moving blankets, and reinforced with padding to protect corners, edges, and glass tops
- Avoid common mistakes like overfilling boxes, mixing heavy and light items, or skipping labels, as these lead to damage and stress on moving day
- Professional movers and removalists offer expertise, equipment, and liability coverage, while DIY packing can save money but requires more effort and responsibility
Essential Packing Supplies You Should Use
Before you begin packing, gather high quality materials that will keep your items secure. Using the right supplies prevents damage and makes handling easier.
Common supplies include strong moving boxes in different sizes, packing paper, bubble wrap, and heavy duty packing tape. Moving blankets and padded covers help protect large furniture, while stretch wrap can keep drawers, shelves, and doors from shifting. Mattress covers and furniture bags provide an extra layer of protection against dirt, scratches, and moisture. For those who want sustainable options, recyclable paper and biodegradable fillers are available as eco friendly alternatives.
If you plan to work with a moving company, you can often purchase professional grade packing supplies directly from them. Many movers also offer complete packing services, which means they will bring all the necessary materials and ensure everything is wrapped and boxed correctly before transport.
How to Pack Fragile Items for a Move
Glassware and Dishes
Wrap every glass and plate individually with packing paper to prevent scratches and cracks. Place plates vertically inside the box as if you were stacking records rather than laying them flat. Add crumpled paper at the bottom and between layers for cushioning. Clearly label each box as fragile so movers know to handle them carefully.
Mirrors, Artwork, and Frames
Use specially designed mirror boxes or picture cartons to keep artwork secure. Add corner protectors to prevent chips and cracks. Place painter’s tape across the glass in an X pattern before wrapping. This will keep the glass from shattering if there is pressure on the frame.
Electronics and Small Devices
If you still have original boxes for televisions, laptops, or speakers, those are the safest option. If not, wrap each device with anti static bubble wrap and secure cables and accessories in separate bags. Keep smaller high value electronics such as cameras or laptops with you in your car rather than on the moving truck.
How to Pack Appliances for a Move
Small Appliances
Clean and dry appliances such as blenders, toasters, and coffee machines before wrapping them with towels or bubble wrap. Place them in sturdy boxes with filler around the edges to absorb movement.
Large Appliances
Disconnect and clean large appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines, and ovens several days before moving. Defrost freezers at least twenty four hours in advance. Remove shelves, trays, and loose parts, and pack them separately. Secure doors with stretch wrap or moving straps so they do not swing open during transport. Use an appliance dolly for safe lifting and always have more than one person help with loading.
Safety Considerations
Always check the manufacturer’s guidelines for moving each appliance. Some warranties require special handling. You may also need to notify your moving company if you are transporting large or gas powered appliances.
How to Pack Furniture Without Damage
Disassembly and Organization
Take apart larger furniture such as bed frames, dining tables, or bookshelves. Place screws, bolts, and other hardware in a small bag and tape it securely to the main piece of furniture. This makes reassembly much easier and prevents small parts from being lost.
Protecting Surfaces
Wrap furniture with moving blankets to prevent scratches and dents. Use plastic stretch wrap to hold drawers and doors in place. For glass surfaces such as coffee tables, cover the entire top with cardboard padding before wrapping.
Transporting Heavy Furniture
Use furniture sliders, lifting straps, and dollies to move heavy items. Always lift with your legs rather than your back to avoid injury. If an item is too bulky or valuable to handle safely, consider hiring professional movers with the right equipment.
Special Considerations
Antiques and Valuables
Antique furniture and heirlooms often require custom crating or specialty packing services. These items may also need additional insurance coverage. Having them appraised before moving helps protect their value in case of damage.
Plants and Fragile Decor
If you are moving plants, water them lightly before the move and secure pots with plastic wrap to keep soil in place. For long distance moves, check whether plants are allowed to cross state or regional borders. Delicate décor items such as vases should be double wrapped with cushioning and transported in smaller boxes.
Common Packing Mistakes to Avoid
Even with the best intentions, packing mistakes are easy to make and can cost you time, money, and peace of mind on moving day. Knowing what to avoid helps protect your belongings and makes the entire process smoother.
- Overfilling boxes
When boxes are too heavy, they become difficult to carry and may collapse under the weight. This puts both your items and your safety at risk.
- Failing to label boxes clearly
Without labels, it is harder to know what is inside each box, which slows down unpacking and increases the chance of fragile items being mishandled.
- Using newspaper as wrapping paper
Ink from newspaper can transfer onto dishes, glassware, or clothing. Once stained, some surfaces are almost impossible to restore.
- Forgetting to secure moving parts
Doors, drawers, and shelves that are not strapped or wrapped may swing open, scratch surfaces, or break during transport.
- Leaving empty spaces inside boxes
Items shift when boxes are not filled properly. This movement can cause fragile items to chip, crack, or break in transit.
- Using the wrong size box
Packing heavy items in large boxes makes them unstable and more likely to burst. Lighter items should go in bigger boxes instead.
- Not protecting corners and edges of furniture
Corners are the most vulnerable parts of tables, cabinets, and chairs. Without padding, they are often chipped or dented first.
- Packing hazardous or restricted items
Flammable liquids, aerosols, and certain batteries are not safe to move in trucks. Always check moving regulations beforehand.
- Waiting until the last minute to pack
Rushed packing often leads to poor wrapping, forgotten items, and unnecessary stress on moving day.
- Ignoring specialty boxes
Dish packs, mirror boxes, and wardrobe cartons are designed to protect specific items. Skipping them increases the risk of breakage.
- Mixing heavy and light items in the same box
Heavy objects can crush delicate ones underneath. Always separate them to prevent unnecessary damage.
- Not taking an inventory of what is packed
Without a written or digital list, it is harder to track boxes or prove losses if something goes missing during the move.
Avoiding these common mistakes will make your move far less stressful and much more efficient. By taking the time to label, secure, and properly protect each item, you not only reduce the risk of damage but also make unpacking in your new home faster and easier. If you are working with removalists, proper packing also helps them handle your boxes and furniture safely, reducing the chances of accidents during loading and transport. Careful planning and attention to detail go a long way toward ensuring that your belongings arrive in perfect condition and your moving day runs smoothly.
DIY vs Professional Packing: Which Option Is Right for You
If you are moving a short distance with fewer belongings, packing yourself can save money. However, long distance moves, antiques, or bulky appliances are best handled by professionals. Movers have the right materials, equipment, and training to prevent accidents. When comparing costs, consider not just the price of packing services but also the potential expense of replacing damaged items if you pack on your own.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to pack fragile items for moving?
The best method is to wrap each item individually with packing paper or bubble wrap, place plates vertically, and cushion every box with extra padding.
How do you move a refrigerator safely?
Defrost the refrigerator at least twenty four hours before the move, remove all shelves and trays, secure the door with stretch wrap, and transport it upright using a dolly.
Should you disassemble furniture before moving?
Yes, taking furniture apart makes it easier to carry and reduces the chance of damage. Keep all screws and small parts in labeled bags for easy reassembly.
What packing materials are best for protecting glass?
Use bubble wrap, cardboard padding, and mirror cartons. Add corner protectors and painter’s tape across glass surfaces for extra reinforcement.
Is it worth paying movers to pack appliances?
If you own large appliances or high value items, professional packing is often worth the cost. Movers have specialized equipment and can reduce the risk of damage significantly.
