Choose materials for the item, not one material for everything
- Strong cartons in sizes that can be lifted safely when full.
- Clean packing paper, tissue or suitable wrapping for finished surfaces.
- Bubble protection, foam, corrugated sleeves or purpose-made dividers where appropriate.
- Corner and edge protectors for mirrors, frames and flat screens.
- Quality packing tape, labels and a marker.
- Original appliance or TV packaging when it is complete and still structurally sound.
Avoid newspaper directly against surfaces that may pick up ink. Towels can cushion some robust household items, but they do not replace a secure carton, edge protection or gap filling for high-value pieces.
How to pack glasses, cups and plates
Glasses and stemware
- Place cushioning across the carton base.
- Wrap each piece individually, including the stem and rim without forcing material inside delicate openings.
- Use dividers where suitable and keep pieces upright rather than loose on their sides.
- Fill small gaps so pieces cannot touch or rattle.
- Add a top layer of cushioning before sealing.
Plates and bowls
Wrap each plate, group only a manageable number and place plates vertically like records in a suitable carton. Keep heavier pieces at the bottom and do not combine dense crockery with delicate stemware unless a purpose-made divided system protects both.
How to pack a television and electronics
- Photograph cable connections and label each lead before disconnecting.
- Remove batteries and detachable accessories where the manufacturer permits.
- Use the original fitted packaging or a correctly sized TV carton with screen and corner protection.
- Keep the television upright and do not place weight against the screen.
- Store remotes, stands, screws and cables in a labelled accessory bag.
- Allow electronics to reach room temperature and check for moisture before reconnecting.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your model, especially for large screens, speakers, computers and appliances. Hafiza Movers and Packers provides packing and unpacking assistance where customers prefer professional preparation.
Mirrors, framed art and canvases
Protect the face, corners and edges, then use a suitable mirror or picture carton. Keep glass-fronted pieces separate from loose hardware and mark the package to remain upright. Do not apply adhesive directly to artwork, painted frames or finished surfaces unless the product is specifically designed for that material.
| Item | Main risk | Protection focus |
|---|---|---|
| Mirror | Impact to corners or flex across the face | Corner guards, rigid face protection and upright handling. |
| Framed print | Broken glazing and frame abrasion | Surface layer, protected corners and a fitted carton. |
| Canvas | Puncture, pressure or moisture | Non-abrasive cover, rigid separation and no stacked weight. |
| Sculpture | Protruding or unsupported sections | Custom cushioning and a carton or crate that prevents movement. |
High-value or irreplaceable artwork may require a specialist art packer, valuer or insurer rather than standard household packing.
Lamps, ornaments and other irregular pieces
Remove shades and bulbs where appropriate, wrap each component separately and label the hardware. Never use a lampshade as a container for heavy items. For ornaments, support thin sections and handles without over-compressing them. Put very small valuable items in a personal valuables container that stays with you.
Use the gentle movement test before sealing
Before adding the final top layer, move the carton slightly. You should not hear pieces collide or feel the contents shift. Add suitable gap filling, then close all flaps and tape the main seam and vulnerable edges. Do not make the carton so heavy that safe handling becomes difficult.
- Write the destination room on at least two sides.
- Add “FRAGILE” and “THIS WAY UP” only where those instructions are accurate.
- List a broad content description without advertising high-value items.
- Keep a simple box number or inventory for important cartons.
Loading and unloading fragile items
Tell the moving team about delicate and high-value items before loading begins. Fragile cartons should be stable, upright where required and protected from shifting furniture. Keep documents, jewellery, medicines, keys and small irreplaceable items with you rather than in the general load.
For furniture and large household pieces, see furniture removals. For a complete preparation timeline, use the Melbourne moving checklist or request a moving quote.
Written and reviewed by Hafiza Movers and Packers Melbourne
This guide reflects the practical questions our booking and moving team uses to plan local house, apartment, furniture and office moves: inventory, access, parking, timing, fragile items and the right truck.
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Useful sources and further reading
Frequently asked questions
What is the best material for wrapping glassware?
Use clean packing paper and suitable protective material, wrapping each item separately and controlling movement inside a strong carton.
Should plates be packed flat or upright?
Plates are commonly packed vertically like records in a suitable cushioned carton because this can reduce broad face pressure.
Can a television be laid flat in a moving truck?
Keep a flat-screen television upright and follow the manufacturer’s transport instructions. Use original or purpose-made fitted packaging.
How do I know if a fragile box has enough padding?
A gentle movement test should reveal no rattling or shifting. The carton must also close fully without bulging or excessive weight.
Should valuable artwork be moved by a standard removalist?
Some pieces need a specialist art packer, custom crate, valuer or insurer. Discuss value, construction and cover before deciding.
