Last updated 2026-06-15 ยท MovePlan Editorial Team
Learning how to pack lamps keeps bases and shades from getting crushed. Separating the parts and giving the shade its own space is the key to both arriving intact.
Step: Remove the shade, bulb, and harp from the lamp
Step: Wrap the lamp base in bubble wrap or a blanket
Step: Coil the cord and tape it to the base
Step: Pack the base upright in a box with paper padding
Step: Wrap each shade lightly in paper, not bubble wrap
Step: Pack shades in their own box, nesting smaller in larger
Step: Do not stack heavy items on the shade box
Step: Label both boxes FRAGILE and note the room
Packing lamp bases and shades safely.
When: Pack lamps in the final week of packing.
Watch out: Do not wrap lamp shades in bubble wrap or newspaper; both can dent or stain the fabric, so use clean paper.