When it’s time to move house or put your belongings into storage, fragile items are often the ones that cause the most worry. Glassware, ceramics, electronics, and family heirlooms can easily be damaged if not packed and handled properly. Fortunately, with the right preparation and a few simple techniques, you can greatly reduce the risk of breakage. Here’s a practical guide for Australians on how to protect your fragile items during both moving and storage.

Preparation: Plan and Organise

A smooth move starts with good planning. Begin by sorting your fragile items so you know exactly what needs extra care. You might group them into categories such as glass, porcelain, electronics, and decorative pieces.

Make a list of your most valuable or irreplaceable items and consider whether some should be transported separately — for example, in your own car rather than in the moving truck. This is especially important for artwork, antiques, or high-value electronics.

Choosing the Right Packing Materials

The quality of your packing materials makes a big difference to how well your items survive the move. Avoid old or worn boxes and invest in sturdy moving cartons and protective materials.

Here are some of the most effective options:

• Bubble wrap – perfect for glass, porcelain, and electronics. It cushions against shocks and prevents scratches.
• Packing paper or tissue paper – ideal for wrapping between layers of items. Avoid using newspaper directly on delicate surfaces, as the ink can transfer.
• Foam sheets or packing peanuts – fill empty spaces in boxes to prevent movement during transport.
• Blankets and towels – great for wrapping larger items like mirrors, lamps, or framed pictures.

Be sure to label boxes clearly with “FRAGILE” and mark which side should face up.

How to Pack Fragile Items

When packing, the goal is to create stability and prevent movement. Always place a layer of cushioning at the bottom of each box before adding items.

• Glasses and cups: Wrap each piece individually in bubble wrap or packing paper. Place them upright in the box rather than stacking them.
• Plates: Stand them on their edges with paper or foam between each one. This reduces the risk of cracking under pressure.
• Electronics: Remove loose parts and pack cables separately. If you still have the original packaging, use it — it’s designed for protection.
• Mirrors and framed pictures: Cover the surface with cardboard or foam, then wrap the entire frame in bubble wrap. Store them upright, not flat.

Fill any gaps in the box so nothing can shift during transport. Seal boxes securely with strong packing tape.

During the Move

When loading the moving truck, place fragile boxes on top and close to the walls, where they’re less likely to be crushed. Avoid stacking heavy boxes on top of them.

If you’re moving yourself, carry boxes with both hands and avoid tilting them. Use a trolley for larger items, but take care on stairs and uneven ground.

If you’ve hired professional movers, let them know which boxes contain fragile items so they can handle them with extra care.

Storage: Preventing Long-Term Damage

If your belongings will be stored for a while, there are a few extra factors to consider. Temperature, humidity, and pressure can all affect materials over time — especially in Australia’s varied climate.

• Choose a dry, climate-controlled space – humidity can damage wood, paper, and electronics. Many self-storage facilities in Australia offer climate-controlled units.
• Use sturdy shelving – avoid stacking boxes too high, as the weight can crush those at the bottom.
• Cover items – use fabric or plastic covers to protect against dust.
• Keep boxes off the floor – place them on pallets or boards to prevent moisture from seeping in, especially if the floor is concrete.

Check your stored items periodically, particularly if they’ll be there for several months or through seasonal changes.

Extra Tip: Insurance and Documentation

Even with the best preparation, accidents can happen. It’s a good idea to check whether your home and contents insurance covers damage during moving or storage. Take photos of your most valuable items before packing them — this can be helpful if you ever need to make a claim.

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