Moving or shipping antiques can feel nerve-wracking, especially when you know one wrong move can undo a century of history. When I shipped my first set of china, I packed the dishes in a neat stack and thought I’d done everything right. Then the box was dropped, and every single plate broke. (It was a nightmare, and the owner of the antique shop I was working at was not happy.)
That experience taught me how unforgiving antiques can be and how the materials and packing method actually matter. This quick beginner guide walks through the exact steps I use today to pack up antiques safely, from how to cushion fragile pieces to the smart way to choose a carrier and file insurance (which I’ve done thousands of times).
Top Packing and Moving Mistakes to Avoid
Even experienced antique collectors make packing mistakes that can cost time, money, and irreplaceable pieces. Learning from these mistakes early on can save frustration later.
Using the wrong box size
A box that is too small puts pressure on fragile items. A box that is too large allows pieces to shift during transit. Choose a size that leaves two to three inches of space on every side for padding. When in doubt, size up slightly and fill the gaps with soft material instead of forcing a tight fit.
Relying on newspaper
Skip recycled boxes and newspaper, since both can weaken or stain your item. Instead, always use double-wall boxes, bubble wrap, and soft foam sheets. If you are shipping porcelain or glass, line the bottom of the box with at least two inches of packing peanuts or air pillows to absorb shock.
Bonus tip: Wear soft cotton gloves or hold items with a clean cloth to avoid fingerprints or pressure on delicate finishes. Place pieces on a padded surface while wrapping so they never make direct contact with a hard table.
Underpacking
As for how much packing, cushion the base, sides, and top of each piece with at least two to three inches of padding (this is what I didn’t do when I shipped that stack of plates). But you also want to avoid overstuffing, which creates pressure points. When in doubt, imagine the box taking a waist-high drop. If anything inside could shift or rattle, add more support.
Skipping a double box
Single-box packaging often fails for shipping or moving antique glass, china, or pottery. Pack the item in a smaller box with padding, then place the smaller box inside a larger one with an additional layer of cushioning. This extra buffer absorbs impact during handling.
Sealing boxes poorly
Masking tape and weak adhesives often loosen during transit. Use strong packing tape and reinforce all seams. Seal every edge completely so nothing shifts or opens mid-transit.
Choosing a low-cost or unreliable mover or shipper
Cut-rate services can look appealing until a shipment arrives damaged. Research carriers before moving valuable items. Look for reviews that mention handling quality, claim responsiveness, and reliability.
If an item is especially valuable or difficult to pack, hire a specialist such as Freight Center or Pak Mail. These companies are trained to handle antiques and can offer both packing and transport with built-in insurance. Paying for expertise often costs less than replacing a broken heirloom.
Not protecting delicate or breakable parts
Remove or wrap protruding parts like knobs, lids, or detachable legs. Wrap handles and rims separately before bundling the piece; the extra time spent here is important. Secure them separately within the same box if applicable, surrounded by soft fill. Never let these pieces rest near the outer edges of the box, where impacts happen first.
Lift the box. If it feels secure the first time you lift it, lift it again. If it still feels secure after the second time, it’s ready to send. If you hesitate either time, re-pack.
How to Ship and Move With Antiques
Once your antiques are packed, the next step is choosing how and where they travel. The right shipping method can mean the difference between a smooth delivery and a costly lesson.
Use multiple boxes if necessary
Large or heavy sets are safer when divided into smaller boxes. Instead of sending an entire dish set in one box, separate plates, cups, and serving pieces. Smaller packages are easier to cushion and handle, which reduces the chance of damage. It might cost a little more to ship, but it protects the pieces you cannot replace.
Pick the right shipping method
Match the carrier and service level to the item. For larger or heavier antiques, use a freight service that offers padded transport or blanket wrapping. For smaller items, a major carrier with tracking and insurance is usually enough. Avoid economy shipping options that cut corners on handling.
Label and mark the package properly
This one might seem obvious, but it’s worth the reminder: Mark each box with the words “Fragile” and “Handle with Care” on multiple sides so it is visible from any angle. Include your return address, the recipient’s information, and a phone number inside the box as backup in case the label is damaged. Couriers often handle hundreds of boxes a day, so clear markings can help your package stand out.
Shipping Insurance
Even the best packing job cannot prevent every accident. If you go this route, always purchase insurance that covers the full value of the antique.
Understand your coverage options
- Basic shipping insurance is included with most carriers, but it usually covers only a limited amount and excludes certain types of damage.
- Declared value insurance lets you specify the item’s worth so the coverage matches its actual market value. This option works best for mid-range to high-value pieces.
- All-risk insurance offers the most protection. It can cover theft, loss, and damage from mishandling or natural disasters. While it costs more, it gives peace of mind when shipping something rare or irreplaceable.
Read the fine print
Each carrier has different rules about how claims are handled. Read the terms carefully and make sure the value you declare is backed by documentation such as sales receipts or appraisals. Keep those records for at least 60 days after delivery.
Document everything
Before sealing the box, photograph the heirloom from all sides, including any existing flaws. Then photograph the packaging itself before shipping. These photos can make the difference between a denied claim and a full payout if damage occurs.
Always double-check that your insurance policy covers antiques specifically. Some general shipping insurance excludes “collectibles” or “used goods,” so verify that you are properly covered before sending the package.
