Moving glassware, artwork or antiques in London? Follow VAN on the MOVE’s expert guide to packing fragile and valuable items safely, so nothing gets damaged in transit.

Packing fragile items is often the part of a house move people dread most. A cracked vase or a scratched painting can turn an otherwise smooth relocation into a stressful one. At VAN on the MOVE, we’ve spent over 15 years helping Londoners move house without a single breakage — and it all comes down to preparation. Here’s how we do it, so you can do it too.

Gather the Right Packing Materials First

Before you touch a single item, make sure you have:

– Bubble wrap (small and large bubble)
– Packing paper (not newspaper — the ink can transfer onto delicate surfaces)
– Sturdy double-walled boxes in various sizes
– Packing peanuts or foam inserts for gaps
– Strong packing tape and a tape gun
– Furniture blankets for larger or oddly shaped items

Skipping on quality materials is the most common mistake people make. A flimsy box will let heavier items crush lighter ones underneath, regardless of how well they’re individually wrapped.

Wrap Each Item Individually

Every fragile item — glasses, plates, ornaments, picture frames — should be wrapped on its own. Start with a layer of packing paper, then add bubble wrap for extra protection on anything particularly delicate, like crystal or china. Secure with tape, but avoid taping directly onto the item itself.

For plates, always pack them on their edge, like records in a crate, rather than flat. This distributes pressure evenly and reduces the risk of cracking.

Use the Right Box for the Job

– Small, sturdy boxes for heavy items like books or glassware — this keeps the weight manageable and reduces the chance of the box giving way.

– Medium boxes for lampshades, ornaments and kitchenware.

– Specialist picture boxes or crates for artwork, mirrors and framed photographs, ideally with corner protectors.

Always fill any gaps at the top and sides of the box with paper or packing peanuts. If you can hear items shifting when you gently shake the box, it needs more padding.

Protect Artwork and Mirrors Properly

Paintings, mirrors and framed prints need extra care:

– Wrap in glassine paper first to protect the surface from scratches.

– Add a layer of bubble wrap, bubbles facing outwards.

– Use cardboard corner protectors on all four corners.

– Transport upright, never flat, to avoid pressure cracks.

For particularly valuable or antique pieces, it’s worth asking your removal company about specialist crating.

Label Everything Clearly

Write “FRAGILE” and use an arrow to indicate “This Way Up” on every relevant box. It sounds obvious, but clear labelling is what stops boxes being stacked incorrectly or handled roughly on moving day. It also helps you and your movers prioritise which boxes need to go in the van last and come out first.

Consider Removal Insurance

Even with the most careful packing, accidents can happen — particularly with high-value items like antiques, art or electronics. Check whether your removal company’s insurance covers the full value of fragile and valuable items, and consider additional cover for anything irreplaceable.

Let the Professionals Handle the Trickiest Items

Some things are best left to experienced movers: pianos, large mirrors, glass-top tables and antiques all require specific handling techniques and equipment. A professional team will also know how to load the van so fragile boxes aren’t at risk from heavier furniture shifting in transit.

Need a Hand with Your Next Move?

At VAN on the MOVE, we treat every fragile and valuable item as if it were our own. Our experienced team across London knows exactly how to pack, load and transport your belongings safely — from a single antique vase to a full house of glassware and artwork.

Get a free quote today and move with total peace of mind.