Packing Glassware, Mirrors and Artwork for a Move

Protect each item’s surfaces and edges, prevent movement inside the container and make unusual dimensions visible to the mover. High-value or irreplaceable pieces may need professional packing or a custom crate. Where a maker, framer, gallery or conservator has given care instructions for a piece, follow those before any general advice, including this guide.

Before packing

Photograph condition, measure dimensions, record declared value and ask how liability applies to owner-packed items. Identify loose frames, damaged glass and hanging hardware before wrapping. If anything is already cracked, loose or flaking, do not try to repair or pack it yourself: tell the mover and ask whether a specialist should handle it.

Who should pack which item

The practical answer changes with value, size and condition rather than with the type of object, so decide item by item:

Condition photos that help

Good photos make a later conversation about damage factual rather than a matter of memory. Useful examples:

• a wide shot of each valuable piece in place, then close-ups of corners, edges and any existing marks;
• the back of framed work, showing hanging hardware and labels;
• a mirror or glazed frame photographed at an angle so existing scratches show;
• a sticker or inventory number visible in the frame, matching your written list;
• the same item again at unpacking, before you dispose of the packaging.

Keep photos dated and avoid capturing documents, addresses or anything private in the background. If something arrives damaged, the guide to documenting a damage complaint sets out what to note and when. Compare House Movers is building Move Planner, an app that keeps inventory items and condition photos together in one record; contact us for pricing and availability. It records what you capture; it is not a packing standard or certification.

Glassware

Use divided cartons where appropriate, wrap pieces individually and fill voids so contents cannot collide. Avoid overloading and mark orientation. Never rely on a “fragile” label to compensate for poor internal protection. For crystal, antique or hand-made glass, ask the mover whether its packing service should handle it instead.

Mirrors and framed work

Protect the face without using adhesive that may damage the surface, and use a correctly sized mirror or art carton. Do not take down or carry a large, heavy mirror on your own; leave it for the crew or a specialist, who can assess weight and the route. Large, heavy, glazed or valuable work may require a rigid crate and specialist handling.

When to crate

Compare crating when an item is irreplaceable, high-value, unusually heavy, sculptural, vulnerable to pressure or travelling through groupage/international handling. Obtain the crate design, handling points and unpacking plan in writing. The same planning logic applies to heavy stone items; see moving a marble or stone table.

FAQs

When does an item need a custom crate?

When ordinary cartons cannot control movement, edge load, impact or handling risk. Let the mover or specialist assess the route and item.

Should I photograph condition?

Yes, before packing and again if unpacked damage is found. Keep dates and inventory numbers.

Will owner-packed fragile items be covered?

Not always. Some firms limit or exclude damage to the contents of boxes they did not pack. Read the terms in removal insurance and liability and ask before moving day.

Suggested component

Use a Fragile-Item Packing Planner with dimensions, value declaration, packing party and photo checklist. For quotes that include fragile-only packing, see packing services.

Related guides

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