How to store fragile items securely: Tips for safe packing and storage

Packing and storing fragile items properly is essential to prevent damage while in storage. Whether you are packing delicate glassware, valuable antiques or electronics, taking the right precautions can ensure your valuables remain intact. Follow these expert tips to store fragile items safely and minimise the risk of breakage.

1.Use high-quality packing materials

Invest in sturdy cardboard boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, and foam padding. Reinforced boxes and double-walled cartons provide extra protection for fragile belongings. Avoid using worn-out boxes that may collapse under pressure. Always err on the side of caution and use generous amounts of packaging around your breakables. This can be reused afterwards to minimise the environmental impact.

2. Wrap items individually

Each fragile item should be wrapped separately using bubble wrap or soft packing paper. For extra protection, double-wrap particularly delicate pieces and secure them with packing tape to prevent unwrapping during transit. If there are any particularly delicate parts of your items explore whether they can be removed and wrapped individually to ensure they don’t break off.

3. Cushion the bottom of the box

Line the bottom of your storage box with a thick layer of padding, such as crumpled packing paper, foam peanuts, or a folded towel. This acts as a shock absorber and prevents items from hitting the base of the box if dropped.

4. Pack strategically

Place the heaviest and sturdiest items, such as books, at the bottom of the box and lighter, more delicate pieces on top. Avoid overfilling the box, as excess weight increases the risk of damage. Fill empty spaces with additional cushioning material to prevent movement inside the box.

5. Label boxes as ‘FRAGILE’

Clearly mark boxes containing delicate items with ‘FRAGILE’ and ‘THIS WAY UP’ labels. This ensures careful handling and reduces the likelihood of mishandling during transport or storage. This is particularly helpful if boxes are going into storage for a long period of time, so you remember which boxes contain your fragile items.

6. Avoid stacking heavy items on top

When storing boxes, place those containing fragile items on top of heavier boxes to prevent crushing. Ensure that boxes are stacked securely and not at risk of toppling over.

7. Use dividers for glassware and dishes

For plates, glasses, and bowls, use cardboard dividers or specialised dish boxes to keep items separated and prevent direct contact. Stack plates vertically like records to reduce pressure and wrap each item in packing paper.

8. Store electronics properly

For electronics, use their original packaging whenever possible. If not available, wrap items in anti-static bubble wrap and place them in a box with firm padding. Remove batteries and secure cables separately to avoid damage during storage.

9. Handle boxes with care

When moving fragile boxes, lift them carefully from the bottom and avoid sudden movements. Ask someone to help you if the boxes are heavy or large. Always inform your professional movers about any fragile boxes so they can handle them with extra caution.