The rule that matters most
Things break when they can move. A glass rattling against another glass will crack; the same two glasses, each wrapped and snug, will ride fine. Every fragile packing method comes down to three things: wrap each piece, cushion between pieces, and leave no empty space in the box.
Dishes and bowls
Wrap each plate individually in packing paper — not newspaper, which can leave ink. Pack plates on edge, like records on a shelf, with crumpled paper between each one. Bowls nest with paper between them. Fill the bottom of the box with a thick layer of crumpled paper, and fill every gap at the top before you tape it shut.
Glasses and stemware
Stuff the inside of each glass with paper first, then wrap the outside. Wine glasses go in divided boxes if you have them; if not, wrap generously and keep them upright in a smaller box. Never lay stemware flat — stems snap under sideways pressure.
Mirrors and framed art
Tape an X across the glass with painter's tape so if it cracks, the pieces stay put. Wrap in bubble wrap or moving blankets, then slide into a mirror box or sandwich between two flattened boxes. Always transport mirrors upright, never flat — flat glass flexes and breaks.
Label like you mean it
Write FRAGILE on at least two sides of the box, and write which room it goes to. Movers stack fragile boxes on top, not underneath — but only if they can see the label. If you are short on time or patience, our packing service handles the whole kitchen and every fragile item in the house.