Moving is not just about trucks and timelines. It’s about trusting that your belongings arrive safely, especially when they’re irreplaceable like your mother’s dinner set, your wedding photo frame or a brand new 55" TV.
And yet, most Indian households still treat packing as an afterthought. Regular 2024 survey revealed that:
- 73% of shifting related damages occur before the truck even moves.
- Of these, glassware, appliances and decor items account for nearly 60% of breakage.
So, why does this keep happening?
Because people don’t know what breaks or how to prevent it.
Let’s fix that.
The Most Commonly Broken Items (And the Smart Way to Pack Each)
1. Glassware, Ceramics & Kitchen Fragiles
What breaks: Wine glasses, plates, glass jars, bowls, ceramic mugs.
Top Mistakes to Avoid:
- Stacking without padding
- Wrapping multiple pieces together
- Using newspaper only (doesn't prevent impact)
Pro Tips:
- Use dish sleeves, or wrap every item individually in bubble wrap
- Add cardboard dividers in boxes (like wine boxes)
- Pack cups standing up, not sideways
- Plates should be stacked vertically, not flat
Recommended Box Size: Small boxes only. Too big leads to the risk of things shifting inside.
2. LED TVs, Monitors & Laptops
What breaks: Screen cracks, internal chip damage, back panel dents
How Damage Happens:
- Laid flat in vehicle
- Placed near heavy objects
- Poor cushioning in corners
Safe Packing Process:
- Wrap screen in microfiber cloth + bubble + cardboard sandwich
- Box upright, label every side
- Never place other items on top - even soft things like blankets
If you don’t have the original box, ask movers for a TV crate or wood casing. It’s worth it.
3. Mirrors, Glass Shelves & Tabletops
Why they break:
They crack under pressure, often from side impact.
How to Pack Them:
- Tape a big X with masking tape across the surface
- Add foam edge guards
- Wrap with bubble and sandwich between thermocol
- Always keep vertical inside truck, preferably behind mattress or sofa
4. Photo Frames & Wall Decor
What goes wrong: Glass cracks or frames snap due to poor corner protection
How to Pack:
- Use bubble wrap on front + back
- Cardboard backing prevents pressure damage
- Wrap in pairs face to face with padding between
Don’t Do: Don’t place frames on the bottom of boxes. They crack from the weight.
5. Crockery Sets & Bone China
Common Issues:
- Thin plates get micro-cracks from stacking
- Jars and bowls bang against each other inside the box
Pack Like a Pro:
- Wrap every item separately, even spoons
- Stuff bowls and cups with tissue or cloth to reduce internal shock
- Use soft cloth between layers to prevent sliding
Bonus: Keep a few kitchen towels aside - you’ll need them for padding odd corners.
6. Furniture with Attached Glass (like wardrobes or tables)
Top Risk:
Most people forget to remove the glass - big mistake.
How to Avoid Damage:
- Remove glass if detachable
- If fixed, wrap entire furniture with foam and stretch wrap
- Add corner padding on all edges
7. Lamps, Chandeliers & Light Fixtures
Why they break: Fragile arms, delicate glass, odd shapes
Smart Move:
- Dismantle completely before wrapping
- Wrap shades separately with soft cloth, not plastic
- Use hard boxes, not soft bags
8. Small Appliances (Microwave, Mixers, Toasters)
Typical Mistakes:
- Keeping blades inside appliances
- Packing cords loosely
Correct Method:
- Remove all loose parts
- Tape cords neatly
- Wrap base and top separately if possible
- Use boxes with cushion layering on all sides
9. Showpieces, Idols, Figurines
Why they break:
Unusual shapes = pressure points = breakage.
How to Wrap:
- Wrap tight, but not tight enough to bend or compress
- Use socks or soft cloth around joints
- Place in small boxes, not mixed with other items
10. Liquids, Oils, Cleaners, Perfumes
Main Problem: Leakage ruins everything else in the box.
Solution:
- Tape the cap shut
- Place in zip-lock bags, then into plastic containers
- Keep liquids completely separate from electronics or clothes
5 Packing Myths That Cause Breakage
| Myth | Reality |
| Newspaper is enough for glass | Bubble wrap + padding is mandatory |
| Big boxes = better | Overpacking leads to internal shifting |
| Soft items protect hard ones | Not if they compress under weight |
| Appliances can be moved plugged in | Always unplug & tape wires |
| Labeling doesn’t matter | Movers depend heavily on proper labels |
Real Stats: Why People Regret DIY Packing
From a statistical report:
- 3 in 5 DIY movers reported broken or missing items
- 78% of appliance damage happened during loading, not transit
- Hiring packers reduced breakage claims by 72%
DIY vs Professional Packers: What’s Better?
| Criteria | DIY | Professional Packers |
| Cost | Cheaper upfront | Slightly higher |
| Safety | Depends on experience | Guaranteed methods |
| Time | Slower | Much faster |
| Breakage Risk | High | Low |
If you’re moving more than 1BHK, consider hiring pros especially for glass, electronics and appliances.
FAQs
1: Can I use clothes instead of bubble wrap?
Yes, for lightweight items like bowls or books. Not for glass or electronics.
2: What’s the safest way to move a large mirror?
Tape an X across the front, use edge protectors, wrap with bubble and cardboard and keep upright.
3: Should I keep my TV flat during shifting?
Never. Always keep TVs upright and well padded. Flat position increases breakage risk.
4: Do I need to empty the fridge before moving?
Yes. Always defrost and dry the fridge 24 hours before moving.
5: Is it okay to pack kitchen jars with utensils?
Only if jars are sealed, wrapped and placed in a separate section with padding.
Final Takeaway: Don’t Just Pack It. Protect It.
Packing smart isn’t a skill - it’s a strategy. Whether you're hiring movers and packers in Gurgaon or doing it yourself, knowing what breaks and why gives you the upper hand.
So the next time you pack, do it like a pro - not like someone rushing through a Sunday afternoon chore.
Let trained professionals handle your move while you relax. From kitchenware to fragile electronics, we make sure everything arrives safe, secure, and exactly how you left it.
Book a free quote now - Safe shifting starts here.
Also Read: Moving & Logistics Glossary: From PPO to QR Code Tracking