Sending fragile dishware in the mail? Whether you’re moving across the country, selling online, or shipping grandma’s tea set to our Brooklyn studio, it’s super important to pack it right so it arrives in one piece.
I totally get the stress. At my small business, we ship tons of delicate china and heirloom pieces every week. We’ve been doing it since 2019—and believe me, we tested a lot of packing methods before we found what really works.
So if you’re feeling nervous, don’t worry. These simple tips will give you confidence and help keep your fragile items safe in transit.
1. Stack Similar Pieces & Add Padding Between

Group dishes that are the same size (like plates or bowls) and stack them together. Be sure to separate each piece with something soft—like bubble wrap, foam sheets, coffee filters, or even clean dish towels. You can also place cardboard between items for extra structure. Just make sure stacks don’t overlap!
💡 Tip: Got old padded mailers from past Amazon deliveries? Save them! They make great sleeves for protecting delicate items.
2. Bundle Each Stack Tightly
Once you’ve made a stack, wrap it up so nothing can move. Use cling wrap, tape, or place the stack in a plastic bag and tie it closed. The goal is to keep things snug and still.

Cup and Mug Storage Box
Specially designed for fragile items like teacups, saucers, and small teapots. The padding and dividers keep everything secure during travel.
3. Protect Handles and Fragile Edges
Teacup handles or anything that sticks out need some extra love. Wrap those parts with extra bubble wrap or use cardboard to guard them. If you’re shipping lots of items, try double-boxing or placing smaller boxes inside one big box to keep things organized and safe.
Also Read: Best Minimalist Teacups for Everyday Use
4. Cushion the Bottom, Sides & Empty Spaces

Line the bottom of your box with a thick layer of padding before adding your packed dishes. Each piece should be surrounded by soft material, with at least an inch of cushion between the dishes and the box walls.
Once everything is packed in, fill any empty spaces with soft, squishy material like packing peanuts, crumpled newspaper, or even shredded paper. You want the box full to the top with no wiggle room.
5. The Golden Rule: Do a SHAKE TEST
Before you tape the box shut, close the flaps and give it a gentle shake. If anything moves—even just a little—open it back up and add more filler. Your goal is for everything inside to stay completely still.

Mozeo Portable Ceramic Tea Set
A compact, all-in-one solution designed for travel. Includes a small teapot, cups, and a durable travel case with internal padding.
6. Label It “FRAGILE”
A “FRAGILE” label might not guarantee careful handling, but it doesn’t hurt. If you don’t have a sticker, just grab a marker and boldly write FRAGILE on all sides of the box.
Also Read: What’s the Difference Between Steeping and Brewing?
Bonus Tip: The Teacup Tower Trick

If you’re shipping lots of teacups, try stacking them vertically in a bubble-wrapped column (like nesting dolls). Wrap each one well and stack carefully in a sturdy box for extra protection.
Final Thoughts
And that’s it! You don’t need to spend a ton of money on fancy packing materials or have the post office do it for you. With just a few smart steps—and things you probably already have at home—you can safely ship fragile items with confidence.
Got more questions or packing tips of your own? We’d love to hear them!