How to Protect Fragile Items During a Move

Key answers

The items most likely to be damaged in a move are fragile tableware, flat-pack furniture, appliances, mirrors and delicate lights. Careful packing, clear labels, and a final check at delivery can greatly reduce breakage, scratches and missing parts.

How to pack fragile tableware and glassware

Ceramic bowls, drinking glasses, bottles and teaware are easily cracked by pressure or contact during a move. Single bags or thin boxes are not enough. Wrap each item individually, place them in a strong box by size, and fill empty spaces with paper, bubble wrap or soft cloth so nothing can shift inside.

Mark the box clearly with fragile and this side up, plus the room name. Do not mix heavy glass items with light ones, and avoid overfilling the box. If the pieces are valuable or hard to replace, pack them separately and take photos before the move for reference.

How to reduce damage to flat-pack and wooden furniture

Wardrobes, bookcases, bed frames and other flat-pack furniture common in Hong Kong are vulnerable at corners, screw holes and joints. Before dismantling, take photos from several angles. Put screws and small parts into labelled bags so they can be matched to the right piece later and do not go missing.

When moving, dismantle removable parts first and protect the surfaces with furniture blankets, stretch wrap or thick cloth, especially the corners, doors and drawer edges. Do not rely only on tape for large panels, because it can still allow scratches. Remove glass doors or loose shelves separately if needed.

What to check before moving appliances and electronics

Televisions, fridges, washing machines, audio systems and computers are high-risk items. Damage can affect not only the outer shell but also internal parts exposed to vibration. Before moving, follow the maker's instructions where possible: empty contents, remove detachable parts, organise cables and keep manuals. If the original carton is gone, use thick cloth with rigid protective boards as the outer layer.

LCD TVs should stay upright and should not be laid flat or tilted for long periods. Fridges and washing machines should be emptied and doors secured before transport. After arrival, some appliances need time to settle before being powered on. Any electrical, gas, water or internal repair work should be handled by a qualified technician, not as a DIY task.

Protecting mirrors, frames and glass decor

Mirrors, photo frames, glass art and decorative glass are especially vulnerable on stairways, where impact is concentrated on the edges. A cross of tape on the surface can help contain shards if the glass breaks, but it is not a substitute for full protection. Wrap the item in bubble wrap, protect both sides with cardboard, and place it in a mirror box or flat sturdy carton.

Do not pack these items with tools, books or other hard objects. Keep them from standing loose in the box, or they may rattle during transport. Label the carton as glass and keep upright, and tell the movers before loading and unloading. If the item is oversized or heavy, measure the doorway and stair turns in advance to avoid forcing it through.

Packing lamps, chandeliers and delicate parts

Floor lamps, table lamps, chandeliers and crystal lights have fragile shades, arms and fittings. If you pull parts apart too quickly, you may bend the connectors or break the fixing points. A safer method is to remove bulbs, shades and detachable parts first, wrap them separately, and place screws, hooks and other small items in a labelled bag.

Large chandeliers or ceiling lights may involve height work, wiring or reinstallation and should be handled by a qualified electrician. Do not climb and dismantle them yourself. Before moving, check the size after packing and the route through the building so you do not discover too late that the item cannot turn a corner or fit in the lift.

Final delivery checks and what to ask the mover

Packing alone is not enough; the handover check matters as well. Make a list of valuable or fragile items, photograph each one, and inspect cartons on arrival for crushing, opening or moisture. When unpacking, check mirrors, corners, drawer slides and accessories before signing off or confirming completion.

When choosing a mover, ask how fragile items will be packed, whether dismantling is needed in advance, how items will be secured in the truck, and what is covered in writing. For higher-value or complex items, request written confirmation of the moving arrangement, and refer to Moving house price list and Service terms for charges and conditions.

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