Your Shatterproof Guide on How to Ship Glass Safely

How to Ship Glass: The Complete Guide

If you’ve ever tried shipping glass, you know firsthand the anxiety of wondering if it will arrive in one or a hundred pieces. That might be why how to ship glass is one of the most common questions I hear from friends moving, small business owners, and everyone else sending glass items across long distances.

Champagne flutes, a tall vase, an ornate mirror, an antique lamp, a set of small vials, or a box of mason jars—whatever the glass item is, you’d want it to reach the recipient intact or else risk shattering their expectations.

However, there are so many external factors beyond your control. Glass can be dropped, tossed onto a truck, stacked under heavy items, or jolted with every bump on the road. With everything that can possibly happen during shipping, breakage is almost guaranteed.

Although you can’t control external factors, you can keep your glass items safe internally. There are ways to secure and cushion breakables so they don’t shift and break with movements and pressure while in transit. Using protective packaging materials, such as those from Refine Packaging, and choosing the right carrier can reduce the risk of breakage. 

In this guide, we go through tried and tested techniques for packing and wrapping glass safely. We also explore some of the shipping companies you can use to send glassware domestically and internationally.

Materials Needed for Packing Glassware

How to wrap glass for shipping? Let’s start with all the right materials needed for packing glass items. While the specific packing material you’ll need will depend on the glassware you are packing, it’s still good to have all these on hand, especially if you often send out breakables.

1. Sturdy corrugated boxes

When shipping breakable items, you’ll need at least two corrugated boxes. One for packing the item, and the other as an outer packaging. It’s best to use double-walled corrugated cardboard, which has fluting that acts as a shock absorber. Boxes with 200lb strength or higher offer better crush resistance.

Tip: If you’re sending a valuable glass item, consider ordering a custom box from Refine Packaging for a snug fit.

2. Bubble wrap and foam sheets

Cushion the glass item against impact with multiple layers of bubble wrap (at least two) secured with packing tape. Choose 3/16” bubbles for cushioning and 5/16” bubbles for shock absorption. If your glassware has handles or spouts, wrap them in foam sleeves for extra protection.

3. Packing peanuts, air pillows, or crumpled paper

The trick to keeping your packed glass shatterproof is to cushion on all sides so any movement within becomes nearly impossible. You’ll need a seemingly excessive amount of packing peanuts and air pillows for this, but they are necessary for a package to arrive safely.

For light glass items, crumpled paper may provide enough cushioning. Just remember to use unprinted newsprint or kraft paper. Recycled paper with ink can transfer color to the glass.

4. Dividers and partitions

When sending multiple items like glass sets, use cardboard dividers to prevent the glass items from touching each other. Look for Kraft or chipboard dividers with a minimum of 1/8” thickness. These would be sturdy enough to keep items from knocking into each other. You may also have custom inserts made for a more luxurious product presentation.

5. Heavy-duty packing tape and fragile labels

Use heavy-duty tape rated for industrial or shipping use. Regular office tape does not bond well to corrugated surfaces and can peel off during the shipment process. 

For labeling, choose high-visibility labels with pressure-sensitive adhesive backing. Make sure the words “FRAGILE” or “HANDLE WITH CARE” are printed in red or orange.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Pack Glassware for Shipping

Here’s the part you came for—the step-by-step guide on how to package glass to prevent breakage.

1. Choose the right box type and size.

Corrugated cardboard boxes are ideal for shipping glass items. Choose one that is big enough for the glass item, plus at least two to three inches of cushioning all around it. This makes sure that there’s enough packing material to secure it in place during shipping.

2. Wrap individual pieces.

Every glass item should be wrapped individually with bubble wrap or foam. Cover the entire piece with protective packaging and secure it with tape. For stemware, wrap the stem separately before wrapping the whole piece.

3. Use dividers for multiple glass items.

If you’re shipping multiple items in the same box, use cardboard dividers. This keeps glass pieces from knocking into each other. There should also be plenty of cushioning to keep the glasses and the dividers in place.

4. Fill up spaces with cushioning.

Prevent shifting and cushion against impact by filling every empty space. Line the bottom with at least two inches of packing peanuts, foam inserts, or crumpled paper. Place the glass item on top, then secure it with more foam, paper, or air pillows on the sides and top. Fill the remaining gaps with more packing peanuts.

Tip: If you’re not keen on using packing peanuts, get environmentally friendly custom packaging with molded inserts that’s made specifically for your glassware.

5. Double box for added protection.

Place the wrapped glassware into a smaller inner box, then put that inside a larger box with two to three inches of padding on all sides. This method is called “double-boxing,” and it adds an extra layer of protection.

6. Test before sealing and sending.

Test the package before sealing to ensure it’s packaged properly. Give it a gentle shake and listen for movements. If you feel that items are shifting inside, add more cushioning. Repeat the test to make sure glass items do not move during transit.

7. Seal the package securely.

Close all box flaps and tape every seam with reinforced tape. Use tape that’s at least two inches wide and apply at least two layers on the bottom of the box. If needed, reinforce seams around the entire package with tape for added strength.

8. Label properly.

Mark with “Fragile”, “Handle with Care”, and “This Side Up”. For international shipping, look for ISO-standard pictograms that foreign handlers can understand even without reading the texts. While not always a guarantee, these labels still minimize rough handling. Plus, some shipping companies ensure extra precautions are taken for packages labeled as such.

Tip: Label the inner box, too. In case the outer box gets damaged during shipping, the inner box can still be identified.

Choosing the Right Shipping Carrier and Services

The carrier you choose can make or break the shipment—literally. Let’s compare the most popular shipping carriers in the country and the factors that affect shipping costs.

Shipping carriers for glassware

USPS

You can ship glass items to any state through Priority Mail and Priority Mail Express at a flat rate that starts at $10.05. The flat rate is available for shipments under 70 pounds and comes with a free shipping box, real-time tracking, and $100 insurance.

The shipping box may not be as strong as custom boxes, though. Still, the U.S. Postal Service can be a budget-friendly option for sending small, lightweight glassware.

UPS

The United Parcel Service also offers flat rates for shipping. Rates start at $11.50 and are applicable for packages less than 50 pounds and one cubic foot (1,728 cubic inches). Since you can use any packaging that adheres to the weight and volume limit, this carrier can be a better option for glass items with unique shapes or sizes.

FedEx

FedEx is another carrier that offers flat rates and free shipping boxes. Shipping for a small box starts at $16.75, which is a bit higher than USPS and UPS rates. They offer free packaging, but internal packing materials are not included. You’ll need to pay extra for cushioning materials.

However, FedEx has reliably fast deliveries with same-day options for urgent shipments.

DHL

If you need to ship glass items internationally, DHL is one of your best options. The company ships to over 220 countries and territories, with some deliveries arriving within the next business day. If you have a business, you can also integrate DHL into your e-commerce platform for seamless checkouts.

Another thing that makes DHL a good option is its Shipment Value Protection, which covers the full declared value of the goods in case of loss or damage.

Cost factors to keep in mind

Weight and size

Heavier and larger boxes cost more. If your package goes beyond the allowable weight and size for flat rates, you’ll be charged nonstandard fees. In USPS, for example, you’ll need to pay an additional $4.00 for packages that are 22 to 30 inches long and $8.40 for those that are more than 30 inches.

Some carriers also charge the dimensional weight price if the DIM weight is greater than the actual package weight. This means you may need to pay more for large glass items even if they are lightweight.

Contents

Some carriers charge extra if glassware has contents in it. The postal service, for one, adds $4.00 to shipping rates if glass containers contain more than 24 ounces of liquid.

Destination

International shipments require extra care and higher fees, but some domestic destinations may also incur higher fees. Some carriers apply surcharges for remote or rural locations because of the difficulty in reaching those areas.

Season

Some carriers charge extra during peak seasons, such as during Christmas and Thanksgiving. FedEx, for one, imposes a seasonal demand surcharge during holiday shipping seasons.

Tracking and Insurance

Extra insurance is always worth it for shipping fragile items. Whichever shipping carrier you use, always check their terms and conditions for lost or damaged items. Some carriers like USPS and FedEx have insurance included in their shipping rates, but you may need to request higher coverage for valuable items.

Tip: Always opt for shipping insurance when mailing fragile items. It’s a small price for peace of mind.

Receiving and Inspecting the Shipment

Once your package arrives, don’t just rip it open. Do this instead:

• Check for visible damage on the outer packaging. Look for dents, crushed corners, and torn tape.
• Open the package carefully and inspect each glass piece.
• If anything is broken, document it with photos immediately.
• File a claim with your carrier if you purchased insurance.

That little extra effort ensures you don’t get stuck covering the loss yourself.

To be eligible for claims, you must have proper documentation. Keep postmarked mailing receipts (USPS) or transaction details that show the date you shipped the item and the declared value of the shipment.

Check the terms and conditions or specific requirements of the carrier you used. DHL, for example, requires claims to be submitted in writing within 30 days from when the shipment was sent. USPS, on the other hand, gives claimants up to 60 days to file for damaged items.

FAQ Section

How do I wrap glass for shipping?

The best way to wrap glass for shipping is to cover it in layers. Start with bubble wrap or foam sheets secured with packing tape. Then add cushioning on all sides. Double box with a small inner box and a sturdy shipping box. Better yet, get a custom box made just for that glassware.

Should I use packing peanuts or bubble wrap?

Use both! Bubble wrap each glass item and use packing peanuts to fill empty spaces around it. If there’s plenty of space, use air pillows to provide better cushioning AND use packing peanuts to fill any remaining space.

What’s the best way to pack a glass set?

Wrap each glass item individually with bubble wrap or a foam sheet, then separate each one with cardboard dividers. Score the dividers so they fit like puzzle pieces and don’t move around inside the box, especially when packing heavier items. Fill gaps with cushioning materials and double-box the package.

How do I ship glass internationally?

Package them securely just as you would when shipping them domestically. But use sturdier shipping boxes for your outer packaging and add extra cushioning inside. Choose a carrier like DHL that handles customs and other international shipping processes.

Is it necessary to double-box glassware?

Yes, especially when shipping them to far locations. Double-boxing adds an extra layer of safety and cushioning during handling, transit, and delivery. This extra step reduces the risk of breakage, especially for valuable or fragile items.

What’s the safest shipping method for fragile items?

Fragile items are at greater risk than other items for breakage. However, the risks can be minimized by choosing the right packaging, using more packaging material, and using reliable shipping carriers.