How to Package High-Value Antiques and Collectibles for Safe Shipping

Antiques and collectibles are often irreplaceable due to their historical, monetary, and sentimental value. Proper packaging is crucial to protect these fragile items from damage during shipping. At ShipSimple, we’re committed to helping you safeguard your valuable items, and we recommend taking clear photos of each step to ensure your package is set up for success. These photos can also support any shipping insurance claims you may need to file.

Step 1: Gather Packaging Materials
Antiques and collectibles often have unique shapes and materials that require extra care. Start by collecting these packaging materials:

• Soft Tissue or Packing Paper: Non-abrasive material for wrapping delicate surfaces.
• Bubble Wrap: To cushion and protect fragile items from impact.
• Packing Peanuts, Foam Sheets, or Air Pillows: To fill gaps and prevent movement within the box.
• Rigid Cardboard or Foam Boards: Provides structure and stability to fragile pieces. 
• Sturdy Double-Walled Box: Select a durable, heavy-duty box for the outer layer.
• Smaller Box (if double-boxing): Use a smaller box for the item before placing it into the larger shipping box.
• Packing Tape: Strong packing tape to securely seal your package.
• Fragile Labels: Clearly label the outside of the box with handling instructions like "Fragile" or "Handle with Care."

Take a photo: Document your materials before beginning the packaging process.

Step 2: Protect the Surface of the Item
Before wrapping with bubble wrap, ensure that delicate surfaces of your antique or collectible are protected:
Wrap the item with soft tissue or packing paper to create a layer between the item and the bubble wrap. This prevents scratching or other surface damage.

Take a photo: Take a picture of the item wrapped in tissue or packing paper to show it is protected.

Step 3: Wrap in Bubble Wrap
Next, wrap the item in two or three layers of bubble wrap to provide sufficient cushioning. For items with fragile appendages, such as handles or intricate details, pay extra attention to these areas by adding additional layers of bubble wrap.
Secure the bubble wrap with tape to ensure it doesn’t come undone during transport.
If the item has multiple pieces, wrap each piece separately before placing them together in the box.

Take a photo: Capture a photo of the item fully wrapped in bubble wrap.

Step 4: Add Extra Protection with Cardboard or Foam Board
For fragile antiques or collectibles, sandwich the item between rigid cardboard or foam boards for added stability and protection from impact.
If the item is unusually shaped, use foam sheets to fill in gaps and ensure that it’s cushioned on all sides.

Take a photo: Take a picture showing the additional protective layer applied.

Step 5: Prepare the Inner Box (If Double-Boxing)
If you're double-boxing the item, place the wrapped item inside a smaller, sturdy box:
Line the bottom of the inner box with a few inches of packing peanuts or foam.
Place the item inside and fill all empty spaces with foam, packing peanuts, or air pillows to prevent the item from shifting during shipping.

Take a photo: Photograph the item securely placed and cushioned within the smaller box.

Step 6: Seal the Inner Box
Once the item is placed and cushioned inside the smaller box, seal the box with packing tape, ensuring all seams are covered.

Take a photo: Take a picture of the sealed inner box.

Step 7: Prepare the Outer Box
For added protection, double-boxing is recommended, especially for valuable antiques and collectibles:
Line the outer box with a few inches of packing peanuts or foam sheets.
Place the smaller, sealed box in the center of the outer box.
Fill all gaps between the inner and outer box with more packing peanuts, air pillows, or foam sheets.

Take a photo: Capture an image of the smaller box inside the larger box, surrounded by cushioning material.

Step 8: Seal and Label the Outer Box
Once the inner box is snugly placed and cushioned inside the outer box, seal the outer box with strong packing tape. Ensure all seams are securely sealed.
Label the box clearly with “Fragile,” “Handle with Care,” or other relevant instructions to ensure careful handling.

Take a photo: Document the fully sealed and labeled package.

Step 9: Track and Record
Ensure you have taken clear photos of every step and keep a record of your tracking information. These photos will help demonstrate that you’ve followed proper packaging procedures in the event of a claim.

By following these steps, you’ll protect your high-value antiques and collectibles and maximize the chances of them arriving safely. This careful preparation will also ensure that your package is eligible for ShipSimple Shipping Insurance, providing peace of mind every step of the way.