The Most Commonly Damaged Items During a Move

Moving is stressful enough, but when you add fragile or valuable items into the mix, the pressure increases. From flatscreen TVs to sentimental keepsakes, making sure everything arrives safely at your new home takes careful planning and the right packing techniques.

Even if you hire professional movers, accidents can still happen. That’s why packing properly is the best way to protect your belongings from damage. Here’s a look at the most commonly damaged items during a move and how you can safeguard them.

1. Flatscreen TVs – Avoid Cracks and Screen Damage

Flatscreen TVs are one of the most frequently damaged items during a move. Their slim design makes them particularly vulnerable to cracks and internal damage.

How to Pack a TV for Moving:

• If you still have the original box, use it—it’s designed to keep your TV secure.
• Wrap the screen in a soft furniture pad or bubble wrap.
• Place a large piece of cardboard over the screen for extra protection.
• Secure the TV inside a moving box and use packing paper or foam to prevent shifting.
• Label the box “FRAGILE” and indicate which side should remain upright.

2. Glassware, Dishes, and Ceramics – Keep Them from Shattering

Breakable kitchen items require extra care when packing. The key is to minimize movement inside the box.

Packing Tips for Glassware and Dishes:

• Use a sturdy box that can handle the weight.
• Stack plates vertically instead of flat to reduce pressure.
• Wrap each item individually with packing paper or bubble wrap.
• Fill gaps inside the box with soft materials like crumpled paper or towels.
• Use dividers for stemware or fragile glasses.
• Mark the box as “FRAGILE” and avoid stacking heavy items on top of it.

3. Picture Frames & Artwork – Prevent Cracks and Scratches

Picture frames and artwork often break because they’re packed flat. Instead, they should always be transported vertically to reduce the risk of cracking.

Best Way to Pack Artwork:

• Wrap each piece in a furniture pad or bubble wrap.
• Place cardboard over the front and back of larger frames.
• Pack frames standing upright and fill empty spaces with packing paper or clothing.
• If moving valuable artwork, consider using a custom wooden crate for extra protection.

4. Mattresses & Box Springs – Avoid Dirt, Tears, and Moisture Damage

Most people don’t realize that mattresses often get damaged during a move. Dirt, dust, and even moisture can ruin them if they aren’t packed properly.

How to Keep Your Mattress Safe:

• Slip your mattress and box spring into protective mattress bags.
• Use a mattress box for added protection if you’re moving long distances.
• Never tape the mattress bag shut—this can trap moisture and lead to mold.
• Avoid using shrink wrap, as it can also create moisture buildup.

5. Wine & Alcohol Collections – Protect the Bottles and Maintain Quality

If you’re transporting wine or liquor, proper packing is essential to prevent breakage and preserve the taste.

How to Pack Wine Safely:

• Store bottles upside down or on their sides to keep corks from drying out.
• Use specialized wine boxes with foam dividers or cell boxes from liquor stores.
• Wrap each bottle in packing paper and cushion the bottom of the box with extra padding.
• Shake the box gently—if you hear clinking, add more cushioning.
• Clearly mark the box as “FRAGILE” and indicate which side should remain upright.

6. Electronics & Small Appliances – Prevent Internal Damage

Laptops, gaming consoles, and kitchen appliances can suffer internal damage if not packed securely.

Packing Electronics for a Safe Move:

• Whenever possible, use the original packaging.
• Wrap items in anti-static bubble wrap to prevent electrical damage.
• Secure loose cords and label them for easy reassembly.
• Fill empty spaces in the box with packing paper to prevent shifting.

7. Furniture – Avoid Scratches and Dents

Furniture is one of the trickiest things to move without damage, as scratches, dents, and broken legs are common.

Best Way to Protect Furniture:

• Disassemble large pieces like tables, bed frames, and shelves.
• Wrap wooden furniture in moving blankets to prevent scratches.
• Secure drawers and doors with plastic wrap to keep them from swinging open.
• Place screws and hardware in labeled bags and tape them to the furniture piece.

8. Mirrors & Glass Tabletops – Prevent Cracks and Breakage

Glass is extremely fragile, and even a small impact can cause breakage. Proper packing is crucial.

How to Pack Glass Items:

• Wrap mirrors and glass tabletops in bubble wrap.
• Use cardboard to cover both sides for extra protection.
• Transport them standing up rather than lying flat.
• Mark the box with “DO NOT LAY FLAT” to ensure proper handling.

9. Sentimental & Irreplaceable Items – Keep Them Safe and Secure

Some items have more sentimental value than monetary value, making them irreplaceable if lost or broken.

How to Protect Sentimental Items:

• Wrap fragile keepsakes in bubble wrap and place them in a padded box.
• Keep jewelry, important documents, and small valuables with you instead of in the moving truck.
• If you have a particularly valuable item, consider transporting it separately.

10. Labeling & Organizing Boxes for Easy Unpacking

A well-labeled box can make all the difference when unpacking and can prevent fragile items from being mishandled.

Best Labeling Practices:

• Write “FRAGILE” on all boxes containing breakable items.
• Number boxes and keep an inventory list so nothing gets lost.
• Use arrows to indicate which way is up.
• Color-code boxes to match different rooms in your new home.

Let Luke’s Moving Handle the Packing!

Packing fragile items can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. Luke’s Moving Services offers expert packing and moving services to keep your belongings safe and secure during transit. Whether you need full-service packing or just extra protection for your valuables, we’ve got you covered. Contact us today for a free quote!