How to Securely Store Fragile Items: 6 Essential Tips for Breakables

Whether you’re an art aficionado who wants to safeguard your collection or you’re simply looking to protect your most fragile possessions, we’ve got the packing tips you need to store your valuables safely. 

With our six expert-recommended techniques, you can minimize the risk of damage and enjoy peace of mind knowing your treasures are secure.

Optimal box selection

The proper selection of the right storage boxes can significantly lessen the risks associated with storing fragile items. For the best outcomes, consider the following: 

• Box material. Corrugated cardboard boxes are widely considered the best choice due to their lightweight and sturdy nature. They provide excellent protection against external impact while still allowing flexibility when it comes to inserting additional cushioning.
• Box size. The right sizing ensures a snug fit that minimizes the movement of fragile items during transportation and storage. Using boxes that are too small or too large increases the risk of damage, which is why it’s recommended to use a box with minimal extra space.   
• Box strength. Boxes with a higher burst strength rating are less likely to get crushed and/or punctured during handling and transportation. This is especially important if you’re storing more delicate items (such as glassware, porcelain, ceramics, etc.).

Cushioned bottom layer 

Cushioning along the bottom of your storage box offers valuable padding to your fragile belongings, protecting them from accidental drops or any transportation mishaps. To ensure the longevity of your breakables, we’ve compiled three of the best materials to use as a box buffer: 

• Expanded polystyrene foam (aka packing peanuts). Packing peanuts are lightweight, strong, resilient, moisture-resistant, and have exceptional shock-absorption properties that will prevent the transfer of impact to your delicate items. In addition to being cheap and easily obtainable, they’re also versatile, as they can be cut into any shape or size required. 
• Bubble wrap. This type of material, made from polyethylene plastic, is widely accepted for its top-tier cushioning properties. The air-filled bubbles in each layer of wrap create a protective buffer that protects fragile items from shocks and vibrations. Bubble wrap is also flexible, cost-effective, easily accessible, and reusable, making it the go-to choice for many. 
• Air cushion packaging. Also known as “air pillows” or “air cushions,” this type of box filler is made from co-extruded polyethylene film that maximizes cushioning while minimizing material usage. Air-filled chambers provide a high level of shock protection that allows any type of impact to be distributed more evenly, protecting your goods from damage. Known for its sturdiness and durability, air cushion packaging is a great choice when it comes to long-term storage and transportation.

Strategic packing order 

By organizing your valuables based on their fragility and packing them in a well-thought-out manner, the likelihood of something ending up broken or damaged is significantly reduced. The best packing order is one that follows these techniques: 

• Categorize items based on fragility. Start the process by sorting your items according to how likely they are to get damaged. Make a note of which objects are delicate and which ones have a lower level of fragility (for example, ceramic plates are more susceptible to breakage than your stuffed animal collection). 
• Consider item size, shape, and weight. Think about the unique physical characteristics of each item you’re storing. The objects that are heavier and sturdier should be placed at the bottom of the box, while lighter and/or more delicate items should be placed near the top. 
• Use the right protective materials. As mentioned earlier, the right packing materials can make all the difference in protecting your collectables. Use protective buffers such as packing peanuts, bubble wrap, and/or air cushions to isolate each fragile item to its allotted storage space within the box.   
• Optimize spatial organization. Analyze the storage space you have at your disposal to determine how fragile items can be arranged effectively. Utilizing storage units or shelving can help you create a secure storage environment.

Specialized dividers for glassware

Specially designed boxes and dividers can make all the difference when it comes to protecting your glassware from breakage. This may include durable options and inserts such as: 

• Dish packs for dishware. Designed with double-thick partitions, these shield your delicate plates and bowls from jostling against each other. However, they must also be used in combination with crumpled paper to ensure the sides and base of the dish pack are well-cushioned. In addition, each piece of your dishware should be individually wrapped to provide an extra layer of protection. 
• Flat boxes for mirrors. The advantage of flat boxes lies in their condensed space, reducing the chance of your mirror sliding around and breaking. If you wrap your mirror in packing material before securing it in a flat box, you’ll decrease its likelihood of getting damaged. 
• Cell boxes for delicate glassware. If you’re looking to store your glasses, stemware, and even your wine bottles, using cell boxes with either built-in or insertable dividers is always advised. These specialized units offer compartments that stop glasses from colliding—something that is especially important during the box’s transportation to your designated storage unit.

Consider professional assistance 

If you’re unsure about your packing skills or simply lack the time or energy to get it done, opting for professional help may be the way to go. Carriers that provide professional packing services employ expert packers who will handle your valuables with precision and care. 

They also provide:

• Comprehensive packing materials for your items. 
• Expertise in securely packing your most fragile valuables.  
• Liability coverage for added security and protection of your assets.
• Time and effort savings for you. 

No matter what you’re packing or how big or small the project is, relying on a professional packer is a wise choice to ensure the safe transportation and storage of any delicate objects.

Choose the right storage unit. 

Once you’ve packed your valuables, the last piece of the puzzle is finding a secure storage unit that will safeguard them. Whether you need storage for the short or long term, the ideal storage facility will provide:

• Ample security. This may include surveillance cameras, secure access codes, well-trained security staff, sturdy locks and alarms, and proper lighting throughout the facility.
• Climate control options. A consistent temperature and humidity level prevents your valuables from growing mould, warping, and otherwise getting damaged due to environmental fluctuations.  
• Space and accessibility. Opt for a unit that can accommodate all your belongings comfortably. In addition, the facility itself should be equipped with well-designed driveways, elevators, and wide hallways so that getting your valuables from point A to point B is a snap. 
• Maintenance and cleanliness. A well-kept and clean facility decreases the likelihood of pests, dust, mould, and other contaminants making it in alongside your valuables. 
• Insurance and liability. While storage units are typically very secure, it’s important to recognize that unforeseen events can still occur. Inquire upfront about the facility’s liability and insurance options, or check to see if your homeowner’s insurance covers items stored in off-site areas.