How to Safely Pack Fragile Items & Electronics for a Move
When you’re preparing for a move, boxing up books and clothes is easy. But when it comes to your grandmother’s fine china, glass picture frames, or your expensive flat-screen TV, the anxiety starts to set in.
One wrong bump on the road can mean broken valuables.
To keep your most precious belongings perfectly safe, the packing experts at Alaska Movers have put together this guide to packing fragile items and electronics like a seasoned professional.
1. Never Skimp on the Golden Rule: Layering
The secret to protecting glass and ceramics isn’t just wrapping them; it’s preventing them from shifting and hitting each other inside the box.
The Bottom Cushion: Always crumple up a thick layer of packing paper or bubble wrap and place it at the absolute bottom of the box before putting any items inside. This acts as a shock absorber.
Wrap Individually: Never let two glass items touch. Wrap each glass, plate, or ornament separately in packing paper or bubble wrap, securing it with tape.
Fill the Empty Spaces: Once the box is full, fill every single gap, corner, and empty space with crumpled paper. If you shake the box gently and hear anything moving, it needs more padding.
2. How to Pack Plates (The Professional Way)
Most people pack plates by stacking them flat on top of each other. This is a mistake. Plates are much stronger vertically!
Wrap each plate in bubble wrap.
Place them into the box on their edges (standing up), like records in a crate.
This structure distributes weight much better and prevents the bottom plates from cracking under pressure.
3. Packing Expensive Electronics
Your TVs, computers, and gaming consoles require special care to avoid internal static and external screen damage.
Say No to Bubble Wrap on Bare Screens: Wrapping a TV screen directly in plastic bubble wrap can create static electricity or trap moisture. Wrap the screen in a soft, clean blanket or microfiber sheet first, then wrap bubble wrap around that layer.
Label Your Wires: Before unplugging your TV or desktop computer, take a quick photo of the back with your phone so you know exactly where the cords go. Label the cords with masking tape and keep them in the same box as the electronic device.
Keep It Upright: Flat-screen TVs are not designed to lay flat; pressure on the glass can break the internal crystals. Always transport TVs standing upright.
The Ultimate Peace of Mind: Let Us Pack For You
Packing fragile heirlooms and high-tech electronics takes a massive amount of time, patience, and the right materials. If you’re worried about doing it yourself, let the professionals take the weight off your shoulders.
At Alaska Movers, we don’t just drive the truck—we offer full-service packing. Our trained team uses industry-grade materials to wrap, pack, and secure your most delicate belongings so they arrive at your new home in pristine condition.
