How to Pack Safely Using Bubble Wrap: A Complete Guide

Learn how to pack items safely using bubble wrap. Tips and techniques to protect your products during shipping, moving, or storage.

Packing fragile goods well isn’t just good practice – it saves money, reduces stress and protects your reputation. Premium Packaging created this guide to help businesses and households across Australia wrap and ship fragile items safely using bubble wrap. The advice draws on current industry guidelines, expert movers and shipping providers, and reflects the latest best‑practice tips for 2025.

Understanding bubble wrap

What is bubble wrap and how is it made?

Bubble wrap consists of two polyethylene sheets laminated together, one of which is formed over rollers that pull air into the bubbles. A moving expert explains that the first sheet is perforated to create the bubbles while a second flat sheet seals them in place. Because only one side of the material has bubbles, the other flat side makes the wrap easier to handle and helps the bubbles stay intact.

How does bubble wrap protect your goods?

The air‑filled pockets act like shock absorbers. Air‑encapsulated plastic (cell bubble sheeting) is designed to cushion lightweight items. Shipping guidelines from UPS emphasise using multiple wraps and layers so that an item is completely protected, especially around corners and edges. Proper cushioning prevents vibration and sudden shocks from damaging the item, which is why many carriers also recommend placing at least two inches of cushioning material around items in all directions.

Which side should face the item?

There is some debate about which side of bubble wrap goes against the object. Many moving experts advise placing the bubble side inward so that the bubbles absorb shocks and vibrations. For example, Ross Sapir of Roadway Moving advises that the bubble side should face inward toward the item you’re wrapping, while a DIY packing guide emphasises laying the wrap bubble‑side up and then folding it around the item with the bubbles facing inwards. A professional packing blog notes the same bubble‑facing strategy. However, UPS’s generic shipping guidelines suggest using the flat side of bubble wrap against the product. In practice, most Australian movers and packaging specialists recommend bubbles facing inwards for better cushioning unless the product has a delicate finish that might mark easily; in that case, place a layer of soft paper between the item and the bubbles to avoid impressions.

Choosing the right bubble wrap

Sizes and grades

Bubble wrap comes in different bubble diameters and thicknesses. Each size suits particular tasks:

Different wraps also cater to specialised needs:

• Anti‑static bubble wrap: Standard bubble wrap can generate static electricity that may damage circuit boards. When shipping electronics, use pink anti‑static bubble wrap or place devices in anti‑static bags.
• Temperature‑controlled wraps: Special bubble wrap with cellular insulation helps maintain consistent temperature during transport, protecting goods sensitive to heat or cold.
• Biodegradable bubble wrap: Eco‑friendly versions made from plant‑based or recyclable plastics are available. They cushion like normal wrap but break down in compost conditions.

Choosing based on item type

A packing guide notes that bubble wrap sizes correspond to what you’re packing: small (3/16 inch) for glassware or electronics, medium (5/16 inch) for general household items, large (½ inch) for TVs or large appliances and extra‑large (1 inch) for industrial equipment. Smaller bubbles provide less shock absorption but protect against scratches, while larger bubbles create a thicker cushion. When in doubt, start with small bubbles to prevent surface damage and finish with larger bubbles for impact protection.

Preparing items before wrapping

Preparation ensures the wrap does its job:

1. Clean and dry each item. Dirt or moisture trapped under the wrap can scratch surfaces or encourage mould growth during transit. Allow ceramics, glass and electronics to dry completely.
2. Disassemble removable parts. Remove lids, cables and detachable components; wrap them separately to prevent scratching or damage.
3. Group similar items. Pack like items together—glassware with glassware, plates with plates. Use dividers or cardboard inserts for dishes and glasses.
4. Choose a proper box. Use a rigid, double‑walled box that is slightly larger than the wrapped items. UPS guidelines recommend a container strong enough to support the weight of contents and to leave at least two inches of cushioning around the item. For extremely fragile or valuable items, the FedEx guide advises a double‑box technique, using a snug inner box and an outer box that is 4–6 inches larger on all sides.

Step‑by‑step bubble wrap packing

Use this procedure for most fragile items, from crockery to collectibles:

1. Lay out the bubble wrap. Clear a flat surface and place a sheet of bubble wrap with the bubbles facing up. If you prefer UPS’s method, place the flat side up for items with delicate finishes.
2. Position the item. Set the item in the centre of the wrap.
3. Wrap completely. Fold the wrap over the object so that it is fully encased. For delicate items, double‑wrap or add another layer. Be sure corners and edges are well protected.
4. Secure with tape. Use packing tape (not masking tape) to hold the wrap in place. Avoid stretching tape across the object itself.
5. Fill hollow spaces. Tuck spare bubble wrap into any hollow spaces (e.g., inside mugs or bowls).
6. Prepare the box. Place a cushioning layer—crumpled paper, packing peanuts or larger bubble wrap—on the bottom of the box. Then layer wrapped items with additional padding between each and along the sides. UPS recommends leaving at least two inches of cushioning on all sides.
7. Check for movement. Close the box and gently shake it. If you feel or hear anything moving, add more padding until the contents are secure. A FedEx guide suggests the same “shake test” and emphasises that a properly packed box should be silent.
8. Seal and label. Seal the box using the H‑taping method (two strips across the edges and one along the centre). Mark the parcel as fragile and include a duplicate address label inside.

Packing different types of fragile items

Not all fragile goods are alike. Tailor your wrapping strategy as follows:

Glassware and ceramics

• Wrap each glass or ceramic piece individually in small‑bubble wrap (3/16 inch). Secure with tape.
• Use cardboard dividers or cell boxes to keep items from knocking together.
• Fill gaps with packing peanuts or crumpled paper to prevent movement.

Plates and dishes

• Stack plates vertically rather than horizontally and separate each with a layer of bubble wrap or packing paper.
• Use double‑walled dish‑pack cartons or boxes with dividers.
• Fill void space around stacks with medium‑bubble wrap or paper.

Electronics

• Anti‑static protection: Never wrap electronics directly in standard bubble wrap. Place the device in an anti‑static bag or use anti‑static bubble wrap first.
• Double‑box method: Use a snug inner box for the device and fill the gap between inner and outer boxes with cushioning such as bubble wrap or foam.
• 2‑inch cushioning rule: Ensure at least two inches of dense padding on all sides of the device.
• Separate accessories: Wrap cords, chargers and accessories individually so they cannot damage the device.

Artwork, mirrors and framed items

• Wrap the artwork or mirror with bubble wrap and secure the corners with extra cardboard.
• Place wrapped items in mirror cartons or strong, flat boxes and fill any gaps with padding.

Musical instruments and antiques

• Pack instruments in their hard cases when possible. If no case is available, wrap the instrument in bubble wrap and fill a sturdy box with foam inserts or packing peanuts.
• For valuable antiques, consider custom crates and specialised packaging. Insurance is also recommended.

Safety tips and best practices

• Use multiple layers. A single layer may not be enough; wrap delicate items in several layers of bubble wrap.
• Mind the surface. For items with easily marred finishes, place a layer of tissue or soft paper around the item before using bubble wrap. UPS recommends using the flat side of the wrap against the object for lightweight items.
• Don’t overstuff boxes. Close the box without compressing the contents. Overpacking can crush the bubbles and reduce protection.
• Avoid re‑using old boxes. Shipping carriers warn that old boxes lose their strength. Use new, sturdy cartons.
• Label fragile items clearly. Labels help carriers handle your package properly.
• Consider insurance for valuable goods. Even with perfect packaging, accidents happen. Insurance can cover replacement or repair costs.

Eco‑friendly alternatives and disposal

When to avoid bubble wrap

While bubble wrap excels at protecting fragile goods, it isn’t right for everything. A moving guide warns against using it on items with varnished wood or leather surfaces because plastic can stick and trap moisture. Heavy, bulky items can also crush the bubbles, making them ineffective. Read More…