How to Pack Fragile Items Quickly for International Moving

by Jessica Thomson Expert Blogger

When you are sending anything overseas, packing it securely is a major concern for many people. While reputed international movers help you with the entire process, many people prefer to pack and load their belongings independently. This is primarily possible when the shipping company has a flexible policy of discounts if the customer opts for self-packing and loading the items. However, fragile items can be tricky to pack if you are not experienced.

This post shares numerous professional tips for clients who are shipping fragile items abroad, but wish to do the packing on their own.

Which Items Are Considered Fragile?

Shipping companies mark certain items as “fragile” for many reasons. It can be because of the material, the design or simply because it has delicate parts which can break. Certain items that are categorized as fragile are:

• Glass utensils

• Crystal accessories like chandeliers and lamp-shades

• Antique items

• Marble Statues

• Artwork, paintings

• Movie set props

There are many other items which are marked fragile too. Here are a few tips to help you ensure the safety of your shipment.

• Extra padding

Irrespective of the type of item you are shipping, adequate padding is always recommended. Particularly when it is a fragile item, ensure the most vulnerable parts and areas are securely padded inside the box. Heavy packing materials might add to the weight of your package, which can increase your shipping cost. Choose lightweight packing materials, such as bubble wraps and airbags, for ensuring the shipment is well protected. Polystyrene chips can also be used for smaller shipments but avoid using it for electronic goods as they generate static electricity. Other padding options that you can choose are engineered foam and corrugated inserts.

• Right box size

Choosing a box which is the perfect fit for the shipment is essential. This will prevent the item from moving around inside the box during shipping which can lead damage on the way. A box which is lightweight but rigid must be chosen as it will not dent easily under pressure. The size should be just big enough to accommodate the item comfortably after it is lined with suitable padding.

• Examine vulnerable spots

Based on the shape and size of the shipment item, it can have numerous vulnerable spots which can get damaged despite heavy padding. Take extra care while wrapping thin, pointed or sharp edges that have a risk of snapping during the journey. You can simply cover the area by wrapping a thick layer of bubble wrap sheet held in place with tapes. Double wrap the item if required for further protection.

• Get it insured

Shipping insurance is optional but if you are shipping any fragile item after packing it by yourself and worried about its safety, getting it insured is a wise choice. This can help to cover the cost of any potential damage. When you are internationally shipping anything along with various other items the chances of damage are greater. Insurance for the item will cover the shipment damage and you do not have to negotiate for reimbursing with the receiver, in case it is a product being sent to a customer.

Shipping any kind of fragile item requires extra precaution and care. If you are going to take the responsibility of packing the item before it is handed over to the international shipping company, the suggestions and tips shared here will be helpful. You can confidently pack the items without any worry about them being damaged on the way.