Fragile packing aims to prevent impact, pressure and movement. Check each item's condition first and photograph anything valuable or already damaged. Ask the mover about specialist packing and the effect of packing items yourself on its liability or insurance arrangements.
Prepare a protected box
Use a sound box appropriate to the load, cushion the base and wrap delicate pieces individually with suitable clean material. Keep hard surfaces from touching. Fill voids so items cannot slide, while avoiding so much pressure that the contents are compressed when the lid closes.
Work by shape and material
- Protect handles, stems and projecting parts individually.
- Separate removable lids and secure them as distinct wrapped pieces.
- Keep heavy objects away from delicate items in the same box.
- Use purpose-made packaging or a specialist service for unusually valuable or awkward objects.
A fragile label helps handlers identify the box, but cannot compensate for poor internal packing. Add a clear destination and orientation instruction where appropriate. Avoid marking the outside with unnecessary details about valuable contents.
Keep the handling route safe
Place packed boxes on a stable surface and keep them away from areas where furniture is being dismantled. Tell the crew which items require particular attention and ensure the destination is ready before unloading.
Unpack over a clear surface, one layer at a time. Check wrapping before discarding it because small pieces are easily left inside. Record any problem with photographs and retain packaging while you follow the supplier's reporting process. For antiques, delicate artwork or unusual materials, seek a suitable specialist rather than experimenting with a general packing method.
Put it into practice
Use the packing box calculator to organise your own figures or next steps. Keep its assumptions alongside your plan.