Fragile Freight. Clever Ways to Pack Glass, Art, and Antiques Safely

Not every fragile item requires the same level of protection. When shipping anything breakable, from vintage crystal to oil paintings or rare ceramics, the real skill lies in selecting the correct materials and technique.

Glassware and fine porcelain usually fare better in soft-pack setups. Consider thick bubble wrap, foam cushioning, and double-layered containers. Items should never directly touch each other. Each piece needs its cocoon of cushioning.

For delicate artwork or sculptures, hard-pack approaches offer greater stability. This might include double-walled boxes reinforced with corner protectors, or custom-made enclosures that hold the object in place without excessive pressure. Antiques or high-value collectors’ items benefit from crating, where wooden cases are built to fit the object exactly. These crates help absorb shocks and isolate contents from impact, vibration, and moisture.

Materials that do the job properly

If you want to ship valuables without stress, cutting corners on supplies is a bad idea. Here’s what seasoned packers rely on:

• Foam sheets and corner guards. Offer extra reinforcement, especially around edges.
• Acid-free tissue paper. Ideal for delicate surfaces like paintings or fine China.
• Double-wall boxes. A must for heavier or high-risk items.
• Stretch film. Keeps bundles tight and protected from scratches.
• Custom crates. Built to fit, offering the highest degree of security.

Every layer matters. It’s not about overpacking, but about smart layering that absorbs shock and prevents friction.

Handling fragile goods with care

Even if your packaging is flawless, how your items are handled during transit can make or break the move literally. This is where white-glove service proves its worth. AnyVan offers this as an optional upgrade, and it’s not just for show. With it, trained professionals manage every step: packing, lifting, loading, and even setting up the items at their destination.

This is especially useful when transporting items that require specific orientation or environmental care, such as mirrors, marble surfaces, or antique clocks. White-glove service ensures hands-on, careful movement without stacking, squeezing, or rushing. It’s how priceless things stay intact.

Know your cover options

Even with expert packing and careful handling, accidents can happen. That’s why insurance matters not just for peace of mind, but for financial protection. AnyVan offers three kinds of protection to accommodate varying degrees of risk:

• Basic protection comes included, suitable for lower-value items.
• Enhanced cover provides a higher compensation limit, ideal for mid-range antiques or framed art.
• Premium insurance offers top-tier protection for irreplaceable pieces.

Choosing the right level depends on your item’s value and rarity. With fragile freight, under-insuring is never a good strategy.

Don’t let damage be part of the journey

When it comes to transporting delicate, high-value items, success lies in the details. Smart packing, reliable materials, specialist care, and adequate cover – these aren’t luxuries, they’re necessities.

Whether you’re relocating an heirloom, shipping a gallery piece, or sending a valuable collection across the country, it pays to use a team that understands the weight of responsibility. AnyVan combines know-how, protective services, and insurance options to give your items the respect they deserve.

Visit the AnyVan website to explore custom packing solutions and optional upgrades for your next delicate delivery.

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