Packing for a move is one of the most crucial steps to ensure your belongings arrive safely. Knowing the best way to pack glasses can make all the difference in preventing damage when it comes to glassware and ceramics. These items are fragile, so using the right materials and techniques is essential.

With proper packing, you may avoid the disappointment of opening a box to find broken pieces. The goal is to secure each item carefully to minimise movement during transit. Whether you're preparing for a move or putting items in storage, understanding how to pack glasses for moving will help to secure your delicate belongings. With advice from professional movers, this step-by-step guide will help you confidently pack your glassware and ceramics that will ensure your fragile items remain intact, making your move as smooth and stress-free as possible.

8 Steps to Pack Glasses and Fragile Items for Moving

Step 1: Declutter

Before you start packing glasses or mugs, take some time to go through your collection. Decide which items you really need and which ones you can do without. Moving is a great opportunity to reduce clutter. If there are glasses or mugs you rarely use or no longer want, consider selling, donating, or recycling them.

By decluttering, you reduce the number of items to pack and move, saving you valuable time and effort. Fewer items also mean more space in the moving boxes, helping you pack your fragile items more securely.

Step 2: Purchase and Gather Proper Packaging Materials

One of the most crucial steps in storing or moving fragile items​ like glassware is gathering and and purchasing packing materials. Never use old boxes, as they can easily fall apart, and avoid newspapers since the ink can stain your glasses and mugs. Instead, invest in materials like:

• Foam for packing glass​, which provides excellent cushioning

• New, double-corrugated moving boxes

• Packaging paper

• Bubble wraps

• Packaging tape

• Tape cutter

• Permanent marker

• Cardboard dividers

Many moving and storage companies offer these materials in various sizes to cater to your specific needs. Using foam as padding for packing glass​ is especially helpful for creating a snug fit for delicate items.

Step 3: Prepare Your Moving Boxes

Preparing your moving boxes properly is key to protecting your fragile items during the move.

• Start by assembling sturdy, double-corrugated boxes to ensure they can handle the weight.

• Line the bottom of each box with a thick layer of bubble wrap, foam, or packing paper for extra cushioning. This provides a protective layer to absorb shocks during transit.

• Reinforce the bottom of the box with several strips of strong packing tape to prevent it from collapsing.

These simple steps help create a solid foundation and minimise the risk of breakage during the move.

Step 4: Prepare A Clear Flat Surface for Wrapping

When packing glasses, a clear, flat workspace is essential for efficient wrapping. Choose an area like a table or a countertop that is at a comfortable height to avoid straining your back or neck. Ensure the surface is clean and free of clutter to give yourself enough space to work without distractions.

Having an organised workspace allows you to wrap each glass or mug methodically, reducing the chance of mistakes or damage. A good setup makes the whole packing process smoother and less stressful.

Step 5: Wrap Each Item Carefully

The best way to pack glasses​ and mugs is to follow a methodological procedure:

• Start by stuffing the hollow section of each glass or mug with packaging paper.

• Wrap the item completely with bubble wrap, focusing on fragile areas like handles and stems.

• Use packaging tape to secure the wrapping.

For added protection, consider using foam for packing glass​ as a secondary layer before wrapping with bubble wrap.

Step 6: Place Your Glasses and Cups in Your Moving Boxes

When placing the packaged items in moving boxes, use cardboard dividers or foam for packing glass to separate each item. Remember that glasses and mugs are extremely fragile, and even the slightest impact can break or chip them. Cardboard dividers will keep the items separate and limit movement in the box. Try to carefully stack them inside your boxes or nest smaller mugs inside large ones to maximise space.

Whatever you do, make sure you eliminate excess storage space in the boxes, to avoid undue movements that create breakage and damage. Another common way to add filling in the box is use bubble wrap or packing paper once all your mugs and glasses are placed inside.

Step 7: Seal and Label Each Box

Finally, seal the box and make sure it is only packed to the point where the top flaps can be comfortably closed. Once that’s done, label the boxes with “Fragile” on all visible sides and “This side up.” Additionally, specifically labelling what type of glass or mug is inside the box can also make it easier for you to unpack and declutter in a more organised way.

Step 8: Pack and Secure Boxes Within Moving Vehicle

The most dangerous part of the entire process is the journey from your old address to your new address. You need to make sure that movement is limited as far as possible during transit, and you can do this in several ways:

• Place boxes in a corner or use a large piece of furniture to anchor them.

• Use ropes or straps to secure the boxes in place.

• If possible, keep the boxes in the front seat and secure them with the seatbelt.

These measures reduce movement and minimise the chance of breakage during transit.

Protect Your Glassware: Pack Smart for a Safe Move

Packing glassware and ceramics properly can make a big difference in ensuring they arrive safely at your new home. Taking the time to follow these steps can help you avoid damage and make your unpacking process much smoother.

If you’re preparing for a move and want more guidance, feel free to explore our other moving tips and resources at Extra Space. We’re here to help you make the process easier, whether you need advice on materials or for organising your move.

Ready to get started? Make sure you have all the right supplies and techniques in place. For more practical advice or assistance with your move, visit our website or get in touch with us for a free quote. We’re here to support you every step of the way from packing glass and fragile items to moving into your new home, and providing storage spaces.