10 Best Packing Materials for High-Value Items

When moving high-value items, the right packing materials can save you from costly damage. Here's a quick breakdown of the best materials to protect your valuables:

• Bubble Wrap: Cushions fragile items from shocks.
• Foam Sheets: Protects delicate surfaces like artwork and electronics.
• Custom Foam Inserts: Tailored protection for items like instruments or antiques.
• Packing Peanuts: Fills empty spaces to prevent movement.
• Specialty Boxes: Custom-fit boxes for mirrors, electronics, and glassware.
• Corrugated Cardboard Sheets: Provides structural support and impact absorption.
• Packing Paper: Scratch-free wrapping for fragile surfaces.
• Moving Blankets: Shields large items like furniture from scratches and impacts.
• Stretch Wrap: Secures items and protects against dust and moisture.
• Strong Packing Tape: Keeps everything sealed and stable.

Pro Tip: Combine materials for maximum protection. For example, wrap fragile items in bubble wrap, add packing peanuts, and use specialty boxes for secure transport. Proper packing prevents damage and saves money in the long run.

How To Pack Fragile Items For Shipping

1. Bubble Wrap

Use bubble wrap to protect delicate or valuable items by providing a cushioning layer that absorbs shocks and vibrations.

2. Foam Sheets

Foam sheets, much like bubble wrap, provide cushioning to protect fragile and valuable items during moves. They're especially useful for safeguarding artwork, electronics, and antique furniture, helping to minimize the risk of damage.

3. Custom Foam Inserts

Custom foam inserts provide tailored protection for valuable items during transport. They are designed with precise cutouts that perfectly match your item's shape and size, keeping everything secure and minimizing movement that could cause damage. This precision makes them an excellent choice for safeguarding your most important belongings.

These inserts are especially useful for:

• Delicate Electronics: Keep items like cameras or scientific instruments safe from harm
• Musical Instruments: Prevent shifting and damage with snug compartments
• Art Collections: Stop artwork from moving during transit
• Antique Items: Protect irregularly shaped pieces with custom-fitted spaces

When choosing foam, go for high-density options for heavier items and softer foam for fragile objects. For added safety, ensure the foam extends 1/4 inch beyond the item on all sides, and the container allows at least 2 inches of extra space for shock absorption.

While they may cost more, custom foam inserts provide reliable protection for items you simply can’t replace.

4. Packing Peanuts

Packing peanuts are foam pieces designed to protect items by filling empty spaces in a box. They’re lightweight, absorb shocks, and help prevent movement during shipping. To get the best results, it's important to use them correctly based on what you're packing.

Here’s how to use packing peanuts effectively:

• Start with a solid layer of peanuts at the bottom of the box.
• Place your item in the center and surround it with peanuts, making sure they’re evenly distributed.
• Add a top layer of peanuts to fully cushion the item.

If you're looking for a more eco-friendly option, try biodegradable packing peanuts. These are made from natural starches and dissolve in water, offering the same protection as traditional polystyrene ones. For electronics, anti-static packing peanuts are a safer choice.

Packing peanuts work best when paired with other packing materials. For example, wrap fragile items in bubble wrap first, then surround them with peanuts for extra protection.

Pro tip: Save used packing peanuts by storing them in sealed bags for future use. When opening a box filled with peanuts, give it a gentle shake to settle them and reduce mess.

For maximum protection, always combine packing peanuts with sturdy boxes.

5. Specialty Boxes

Specialty boxes take protection a step further by offering designs tailored to specific items. Unlike standard boxes, these are crafted to provide a snug fit and extra security for high-value or fragile goods.

Here are some common types:

• Picture and Mirror Boxes: Perfect for artwork, mirrors, and photos. These come with reinforced construction and padded inserts to prevent damage.
• Electronics Boxes: Often include anti-static linings and custom inserts to keep devices safe and secure.
• Wine and Glassware Boxes: Designed with compartments or dividers to separate and protect fragile items like bottles and glassware.
• Wardrobe Boxes: Ideal for transporting clothing and accessories. Built-in hanging bars help maintain the shape of garments during the move.

For added protection, combine specialty boxes with foam or bubble wrap, and clearly label them "FRAGILE" along with the correct orientation.

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6. Corrugated Cardboard Sheets

Corrugated cardboard sheets add extra support and cushioning to your packing setup. Made with a fluted core sandwiched between two flat layers, these sheets are both sturdy and lightweight.

Here’s why the three-layer design works so well:

• Impact Absorption: The corrugated core spreads out impact, reducing concentrated pressure.
• Even Weight Distribution: Helps prevent pressure points that could damage items.
• Stacking Support: You can layer sheets to protect fragile items stacked together.

These sheets work great in combination with other packing materials to reduce risks during transit.

Use corrugated sheets between:

• Framed artwork or mirrors
• Flat-screen TVs and monitors
• Furniture with delicate surfaces
• Stacked boxes holding fragile items

Pro Tip: When packing multiple items in one box, cut corrugated sheets to size and use them as dividers. This creates custom compartments that keep everything secure and in place.

For high-value items (over $1,000), opt for double- or triple-wall sheets for added strength. These thicker sheets are especially useful for protecting expensive or delicate goods.

Pair corrugated sheets with materials like bubble wrap or foam sheets for even better protection. Wrap the item first, layer with the corrugated sheet, and secure everything with heavy-duty packing tape.

7. Packing Paper

Plain packing paper is a must-have for keeping fragile and expensive items safe. This blank, acid-free paper offers protection without the risk of ink smudges, unlike newspapers.

Key Advantages:

• Prevents scratches on surfaces
• Adds a layer of cushioning
• Fills empty spaces in boxes
• Shields items from dust and moisture
• Gentle on delicate surfaces

To get the most out of packing paper, wrap high-value items (over $500) in at least three layers. Start at the corners and fold tightly to ensure everything is secure.

Ideal Uses:

• Fine china and crystal
• Antique furniture finishes
• Fragile artwork
• Collectibles
• Electronic components

For extra safety, combine packing paper with materials like bubble wrap.

Try these packing techniques for better results:

• Crumple Method: Tightly crumple the paper into balls to fill gaps in boxes, especially for items worth over $1,000. This prevents movement during transit.
• Layering Technique: Wrap fragile items with 4-5 sheets, rotating the item between each layer. Pay special attention to corners by doubling the paper in those areas.

If you're packing several fragile items in one box, use packing paper to create dividers. This keeps items separated and reduces the risk of them bumping into each other. For even more protection, add corrugated cardboard sheets between layers.

Pro Tip: Always use clean, dry packing paper. Even a little moisture can weaken the paper and harm your items. Store unused sheets in a cool, dry place to keep them in top condition.

8. Moving Blankets

Moving blankets are great for shielding large, valuable items from shocks and scratches during transport. They work similarly to foam sheets and bubble wrap by adding a protective cushion, especially for oversized or heavy objects.

Key Features:

• Thick, multi-layer padding
• Strong, durable outer fabric
• Machine washable
• Reusable for multiple moves

Opt for professional-grade moving blankets to get the best protection and durability.

How to Use Them:

• Start by wrapping the corners, then cover the rest of the item evenly.
• Overlap the edges to ensure complete coverage.
• Secure everything with stretch wrap.
• Add extra padding to vulnerable areas like corners or edges.

For extra protection, try a dual-layer approach: first wrap items with bubble wrap or foam sheets, then cover them with moving blankets.

Pro Tip: Store your moving blankets in a dry place, and check them regularly for tears or damage. Replace any worn-out blankets to keep your items fully protected.

For oddly shaped items, fold or drape the blankets to create a snug fit. Focus on areas like legs, handles, or decorative parts, and make sure everything is tightly secured to prevent shifting during the move.

9. Stretch Wrap

Stretch wrap is an industrial-grade plastic film designed to secure items and protect them from moisture and dust. It’s a practical solution for keeping high-value items safe during packing and transport.

Benefits of Using Stretch Wrap:

• Secures items tightly
• Shields against moisture
• Prevents dust buildup
• Bundles multiple items together
• Affordable and simple to use

How to Apply:

Start wrapping at the base of the item, working your way up with about 50% overlap. Pay extra attention to corners and edges by applying 3-4 layers for added protection.

Tips for Best Results:

• Choose commercial-grade stretch wrap (at least 80 gauge or 20 microns thick)
• Keep tension consistent to avoid gaps
• Fold the end of the wrap securely to lock it in place

Pro Tip: For furniture or delicate surfaces, use moving blankets or foam sheets underneath the stretch wrap to avoid direct contact and potential damage.

Pair It with Other Materials:

Stretch wrap works well with:

• Moving blankets for extra coverage
• Bubble wrap for added stability
• Foam sheets for electronics or fragile items

For irregularly shaped or especially valuable items, try double-wrapping: first wrap clockwise, then add a second layer counter-clockwise for extra security.

Note: Avoid pulling the wrap too tightly on delicate surfaces. Always test on a small section before fully wrapping.

When used correctly, stretch wrap adds an extra layer of protection and works seamlessly with other packing materials to keep your belongings safe.

10. Strong Packing Tape

After wrapping your items with stretch wrap, strong packing tape is crucial to keep everything secure during transit. It plays a key role in stabilizing packages, especially when shipping high-value goods. Picking the right type ensures better protection.

Types of Packing Tape for Secure Sealing

• Pressure-Sensitive Tape (PST): Known for its reliable adhesion, this tape uses acrylic adhesive that holds up over time.
• Reinforced Water-Activated Tape: Features embedded fibers for added strength and creates a tamper-resistant seal.

Tips for Proper Application

To ensure maximum security, try the H-taping method. Start by applying a strip along the central seam of the box. Then, add perpendicular strips at both ends. For extra protection, reinforce the box corners with diagonal layers of tape. This approach works well with other protective materials to keep your package intact.

Best Practices for Using Packing Tape

• Store tape in a cool, dry area.
• Apply firm pressure when sealing to ensure a strong bond.
• Opt for wider tape when dealing with heavier packages.
• Replace tape that has aged or shows signs of wear.

Mistakes to Avoid

• Don’t use masking or painter's tape - they lack the necessary strength.
• Avoid applying tape to dirty or dusty surfaces.
• Don’t overstretch the tape; it weakens the seal.
• Always reinforce the corners of heavy boxes.

Pairing Packing Tape with Other Materials

Strong packing tape works best when combined with materials like bubble wrap and foam sheets. For added protection, consider using reinforcement strips, corner protectors, or moisture barriers. Fresh tape and proper application ensure these materials work together effectively to safeguard your items.

Summary

Moving high-value items safely requires careful planning and layering of packing materials to guard against damage.

Best Material Combinations

Different items need different packing approaches. Here are some useful combinations:

• Fragile electronics: Start with custom foam inserts, wrap them in bubble wrap, place them in specialty boxes, and seal with strong packing tape.
• Antiques and artwork: Use packing paper, foam sheets, packing peanuts, and specialty boxes for added security.
• Large furniture: Protect with moving blankets, stretch wrap, and corrugated cardboard sheets to shield edges.

Professional Packing Services

MOD24’s professional packing services provide skilled handling, proper material choice, and efficient techniques to ensure your items are secure. Their team prioritizes safety while reducing material waste.

Here’s what a happy customer had to say:

"The guys were absolutely fantastic!!! They had my whole move completed in less than 3.5 hours. They were super respectful, hardworking, diligent, and efficient with their time. Everything arrived in perfect condition and was arranged exactly how I wanted. 10/10 recommend!" - Bailey L.

Key Packing Tips

Before sealing any box, make sure to remove any loose parts, fill empty spaces to prevent shifting, and clearly label the contents.

MOD24 connects you with licensed, insured movers who maintain an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 from 370 reviews. Whether you handle the packing yourself or rely on their professionals, these strategies ensure your valuable items are safe throughout the move.