Packing fragile items like lamps, mirrors, and framed art can be one of the most stressful parts of any move. These items are not only delicate but often sentimental or expensive — meaning they need extra care, proper materials, and a smart packing plan.
At All Star Movers & Storage, we’ve spent over two decades helping homeowners in Dublin and across the Bay Area pack and move delicate items safely. Whether you’re preparing for a local move or heading out of state, here’s how to protect your fragile décor from damage.
Why Fragile Items Need Special Care
Unlike sturdy furniture or boxes of linens, fragile items have vulnerable parts that can break or crack with just one bump. Lamps have delicate shades and thin bases, mirrors can shatter from pressure or vibration, and framed art can be damaged by moisture or impact.
Because of this, professional movers use specific techniques and materials to keep these valuables safe. With the right preparation — and a little patience — you can ensure your fragile pieces arrive at your new home in perfect condition.
Step 1: Gather the Right Packing Materials
Before you start, assemble everything you’ll need. Using professional-grade materials instead of standard household supplies significantly improves protection.
You’ll need:
Heavy-duty moving boxes in various sizes
Mirror or artwork boxes with corner protectors
Bubble wrap and packing paper
Painter’s tape or masking tape
Soft blankets or foam sheets
Sturdy packing tape and labels
Investing in quality supplies helps prevent damage during loading, unloading, and transport. You can also ask All Star Movers & Storage to provide specialty boxes and protective materials for lamps, mirrors, and artwork.
Step 2: How to Pack Lamps Safely
Lamps are surprisingly tricky to move because of their fragile shades and awkward shapes. Follow these steps for safe packing:
Remove the lampshade and bulb. Wrap each separately using bubble wrap or paper.
Secure the base. Wrap the lamp base in several layers of paper or foam, then bubble wrap.
Pack upright. Place the base in a tall box with padding on all sides.
Use separate boxes. Never pack lamps and shades together — the shade’s delicate frame can bend or tear easily.
Label everything. Write “FRAGILE – LAMP” and “THIS SIDE UP” on each box.
If you own tall floor lamps or custom lighting, our Dublin movers can build custom crates or use specialty lamp boxes for extra safety.
Step 3: How to Pack Mirrors and Glass
Mirrors are among the most breakable household items, so they require careful handling. Professional movers often use mirror boxes — telescoping cardboard boxes that fit snugly around the frame.
Here’s how to prepare your mirrors:
Apply painter’s tape in an X pattern on the glass to prevent shattering if the mirror cracks.
Wrap the entire mirror with packing paper, then add two layers of bubble wrap.
Use corner protectors on each corner of the frame.
Slide the mirror into a mirror box, ensuring a snug fit.
Keep mirrors upright during transport, never flat, to avoid pressure damage.
We also pad mirrors with moving blankets inside the truck to absorb vibration during transport.
Step 4: How to Pack Framed Art and Photos
Framed artwork deserves just as much care as mirrors. Canvas art, glass-covered frames, and photographs can be easily scratched or torn without the right protection.
Wrap the artwork in acid-free paper to prevent sticking or discoloration.
Add bubble wrap around the frame, securing it with tape.
Use cardboard sheets or foam boards between stacked pieces to prevent rubbing.
Pack vertically in artwork boxes and fill empty spaces with crumpled paper.
Mark boxes clearly as “FRAGILE – ARTWORK – DO NOT LAY FLAT.”
For large or valuable art pieces, our team can create custom wooden crates and use temperature-controlled storage when needed.
Step 5: Label and Load with Care
Labeling is just as important as wrapping. Mark every box with the room name, item type, and handling instructions. This ensures movers know which boxes to load last and unload first.
When loading, place fragile boxes on top of sturdier items, never underneath heavy furniture or appliances. Professional movers use straps and pads to secure these boxes inside the truck so they stay upright and protected.
Why Homeowners in Dublin Trust All Star Movers & Storage
Over 20 years of local and long-distance moving experience
Licensed, insured, and BBB accredited
Specialized in fragile and high-value item moving
Custom crating for artwork, glass, and lamps
Full-service packing, storage, and white-glove delivery options
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
We proudly serve Dublin, Pleasanton, Livermore, San Ramon, Danville, Walnut Creek, Hayward, Mountain House, Tracy, Modesto, San Jose, San Francisco, Sacramento, and nearby Bay Area and Central Valley communities.
FAQs About Packing Fragile Items for a Move
Q: Can I use regular boxes for lamps and mirrors?
A: It’s best to use specialty boxes or professional packing materials. Regular boxes often lack the rigidity to protect fragile items.
Q: Should I let movers pack my fragile items?
A: Yes, professional packing ensures maximum protection. Our team uses proven techniques and materials to safeguard lamps, art, and mirrors.
Q: How do movers transport large mirrors or artwork?
A: We keep fragile items upright and secure them with straps and padding inside the truck to prevent movement.
Q: Can you pack and move antiques or specialty art?
A: Absolutely. We handle antiques, fine art, and collectible pieces with custom crating and optional storage.
Protect Your Fragile Décor with Dublin’s Moving Experts
Packing fragile items doesn’t have to be stressful when you have the right help. With All Star Movers & Storage, your lamps, mirrors, and artwork are handled with professional care — from careful wrapping to secure transport.
Call today at (925) 905-9889 to schedule your free estimate!