Cardboard box sealed with red tape labeled FRAGILE, used for shipping and handling delicate items
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Moving Fragile & Valuable Items Safely: Expert Tips for National Preparedness Month

September 16, 2025

Helpful Guide: How to Safely Secure Fragile and Valuable Items During a Move 

Moving is stressful enough without worrying about broken heirlooms or missing valuables. Whether you're packing up your fine china or Grandma’s vintage record player, a little planning goes a long way. Here’s a quick look at how to stay stress-free when securing valuable items during a move. 

How to Pack and Protect Your Most Delicate Belongings: 

  • Use high-quality packing materials designed for fragile or breakable items
  • Label boxes clearly and create a moving day checklist just for valuables
  • Hire professional movers who know how to handle delicate or sentimental belongings
  • Keep especially valuable or irreplaceable items with you during the move 

Let’s unpack some expert-approved moving fragile items tips—without the bubble wrap anxiety. 

National Preparedness Month Is the Perfect Time to Plan Your Move. September isn’t just about pumpkin spice and football season, it's also National Preparedness Month. While most folks focus on emergency kits and storm plans, it’s also a great reminder to get organized before your big move. Preparedness = peace of mind. 

 

Hands packing fragile items in bubble wrap and paper inside a box for safe moving

1. Packing Fragile Items Like a Pro 

If you’re Googling “how to pack fragile items,” we got you. Let’s break it down by category: 

  • Use the Right Materials 

Skip the newspaper and invest in the good stuff: 

  • Bubble wrap: Ideal for wrapping individual items
  • Packing paper: Fills empty space without scratching surfaces
  • Dish boxes with dividers: Great for glasses, mugs, and plates
  • Foam corner protectors: A must for mirrors and picture frames
  • Double-Box When Needed 

For items like vases or collectibles, place the wrapped item in a small box, then place that box inside a larger one with padding in between. Think of it as a security blanket... inside another security blanket. 

  • Don’t Overpack Boxes 

Stuffed boxes = more likely to break open (and break stuff). Keep boxes under 50 pounds, and don’t stack heavy items on top of fragile ones. 

 

Cardboard boxes labeled “FRAGILE” ready for transport during a move

2. Moving Fragile Items Tips That Actually Work 

Here are a few tips that even seasoned movers swear by: 

  • Label everything clearly with “FRAGILE” and “THIS SIDE UP” stickers
  • Take photos of your valuables before packing, just in case you need them for insurance
  • Pack a “first-day box” with essentials like toiletries, phone chargers, and a few fragile must-haves 

Bonus tip: Keep sentimental items like photo albums or handwritten letters close—either in your personal vehicle or a clearly marked box that you carry yourself. 

 

3. Securing Valuable Items During a Move 

When it comes to securing valuable items during a move, the key is preparation and trust. Here’s how to stay safe and sane: 

  • Inventory and Insure 

Create a list of your high-value items. Include: 

  • Electronics
  • Jewelry
  • Antiques or collectibles
  • Personal documents 

Snap photos, write down serial numbers, and consider short-term moving insurance for extra protection. 

  • Pack Smart, Not Stressful 

Avoid packing all valuables in one box. Spread them out and disguise their contents. You can even pack items in plain boxes to avoid attention. 

  • Hire Professionals You Trust 

Reputable movers (cough cough College HUNKS) are trained in handling fragile and valuable goods. Ask about special services like: 

  • Custom packing for TVs
  • Full-service packing options
  • Secure loading and unloading procedures 

 

Woman packing boxes

4. Your Moving Day Checklist for Maximum Security 

Make moving day a breeze with this simple prep list: 

  • Confirm inventory of valuable items
  • Double-check box labels (FRAGILE, room, contents, etc.)
  • Keep essential fragile items with you
  • Communicate clearly with your movers
  • Do a final walk-through to ensure nothing gets left behind 

Trust us, your future self will thank you. 

Final Thoughts: 

Whether you're moving across town or across the country, being prepared is the best way to protect what matters most. With a little planning and a lot of bubble wrap, securing valuable items during a move doesn't have to be a nerve-wracking experience. 

Let College HUNKS help you carry the weight—literally. From packing your fragile treasures to carefully loading your valuables, our trained professionals treat your belongings like their own. Need help getting organized, packing, or lifting the heavy stuff (including your anxiety)? We’re just a call away. 

Get a free quote today and move with confidence with help from the HUNKS.