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How do I pack fragile items safely when moving house to Bridport?

To pack fragile items safely when moving house to Bridport, wrap each piece individually in bubble wrap or packing paper, place heavier items at the bottom of sturdy double-walled boxes, fill all gaps with soft packing material, and clearly label every box 'Fragile - This Way Up'.

Packing fragile items properly is one of the most important steps in any house move, and it deserves more time and care than most people allow. Whether you are moving to Bridport from elsewhere in Dorset or relocating from further afield, the A35 and the winding rural roads around the town mean your boxes will encounter bumps, so good packing really does matter.

  • Choose the right boxes. Use double-walled cardboard boxes rather than single-walled supermarket cast-offs. Dedicated dish packs and picture boxes are worth the small extra cost for your most valuable pieces.
  • Wrap everything individually. Every glass, plate, ornament, and ceramic should be wrapped in several sheets of unprinted packing paper or bubble wrap before it goes near a box. Never wrap items in newspaper - the ink transfers and can be very difficult to clean off.
  • Layer and cushion. Line the base of each box with at least 5 cm of crumpled packing paper or foam peanuts. Place heavier items (plates stood on their edges, not flat) at the bottom and lighter pieces on top. Fill every gap so nothing can shift in transit.
  • Label clearly and consistently. Mark all four sides and the top of each fragile box with 'Fragile' and an arrow showing which way is up. Tell your removal crew which boxes need extra attention - a reputable Bournemouth removals company such as Astra Removals will always prioritise clearly labelled fragile loads.

If you are unsure about packing antiques, mirrors, artwork, or anything particularly valuable, it is worth asking your removals company whether they offer a professional packing service. Having an experienced crew pack your fragile items means they are also covered under the removal company's goods-in-transit insurance, which can give real peace of mind on moving day.

Step by step

  1. Gather the right materials - Buy double-walled boxes in the correct sizes for your items. Stock up on bubble wrap, unprinted packing paper, foam peanuts or offcuts, and good-quality packing tape. Avoid using newspaper as the ink transfers onto crockery and glassware.
  2. Wrap each item individually - Take one item at a time. Wrap glasses and cups in two or three sheets of packing paper, tucking the paper inside the rim as well as around the outside. Wrap plates individually and stand them on their edges in the box rather than stacking them flat, which reduces pressure and breakage risk.
  3. Prepare the box - Reinforce the base of every box with two or three strips of packing tape. Add a 5 cm layer of crumpled packing paper or foam peanuts to the base before placing any items inside.
  4. Pack in the correct order - Place the heaviest wrapped items at the bottom of the box and the lightest at the top. Fill all remaining gaps with soft packing material so nothing can move. Press the top gently - if you feel any movement inside, add more packing material before sealing.
  5. Seal and label the box - Tape the lid securely with two strips of tape across the join and two strips down the sides. Write 'Fragile - This Way Up' clearly on all four sides and the top. Make a brief contents note on the box so it can be prioritised on arrival at your Bridport property.
  6. Tell your removal crew - Point out all fragile boxes to your removal team before loading begins. A professional crew will load fragile items last so they can be unloaded first and placed out of the way immediately, reducing the risk of damage during the move.

Related questions

Should I hire a professional packing service for a move to Bridport?

A professional packing service is worth considering if you have a large number of fragile or valuable items, limited time, or antiques and artwork that need specialist handling. It also means your items are more likely to be covered under the removal company's goods-in-transit insurance. Ask your removals company for a quote alongside your removal costs.

What is the best material to use when packing fragile items?

Unprinted packing paper and bubble wrap are the best choices. Packing paper is good for general wrapping and gap-filling; bubble wrap adds extra cushioning for glassware, ceramics, and anything with delicate surfaces. Avoid newspaper as the ink can stain items permanently.

How heavy should a box of fragile items be?

As a general rule, keep fragile boxes to no more than around 15 kg. Heavy boxes are harder to handle carefully, and the risk of dropping or crushing increases significantly above this weight. If a box feels uncomfortably heavy, split the contents into two smaller boxes.

Are fragile items covered by removal insurance?

Standard goods-in-transit insurance offered by removal companies typically covers items that are professionally packed. Items packed by the customer themselves may be subject to different terms. Always check the policy details with your chosen removals company before your move, and consider declaring any high-value items separately.

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Family-run Bournemouth removals since 1986, fully insured, 4.7/5 on Trustpilot.

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