How to Pack Dishes for Moving: Protecting Your Plates and Glasses

Moving your dishes safely requires the right approach and materials to prevent damage during transport. A reliable moving company will often recommend specific packing techniques, but you can handle this task yourself with proper preparation. This guide covers everything from choosing the right supplies to packing methods that keep your plates and glasses intact. You'll learn step-by-step techniques for wrapping, organizing, and securing your kitchenware. These proven methods will help you move your dishes without chips, cracks, or breaks.

Get Your Packing Materials Ready

Start by collecting sturdy cardboard boxes in different sizes. Make sure these boxes are clean and damage-free to protect your dishes properly. You'll need packing paper or bubble wrap to cushion each item and stop them from moving around during the trip. Don't forget packing tape to seal boxes tightly and markers for clear labeling. Dish barrels work great for your most fragile pieces since they're built specifically for breakable items.

Wrap Each Plate Separately

Take time to wrap every plate on its own using packing paper or bubble wrap. Here's the simple process:

1. Spread a sheet of packing paper on a flat surface

2. Put a plate in the middle of the paper

3. Fold one corner over the plate

4. Fold the opposite corner over and tape it down

This method protects each plate from scratches and chips. Individual wrapping gives you peace of mind knowing your plates have proper cushioning for the move.

Protect Glasses with Dividers

Cardboard divider kits made for glasses are your best bet for safe transport. These dividers fit between each glass and stop them from hitting each other. Put a divider on a flat surface and place one glass in each section. Add another divider on top to create a protective layer. Continue stacking in this manner until all glasses are packed. Mark the box as fragile and indicate which side should be facing up.

Stand Plates Up in Boxes

Pack plates standing upright instead of stacking them flat - this reduces breaking during moves. Follow these steps:

1. Stack Smart: Put plates vertically with the biggest ones at the bottom and the smallest on top

2. Add Cushioning: Place bubble wrap or packing paper between each plate for extra protection

3. Fill Gaps: Stuff any empty spots with packing material so plates can't shift around

4. Mark Clearly: Write 'Fragile - Plates' on the box so movers handle it carefully

Mark Your Boxes the Right Way

Clear labeling helps movers treat your dishes properly and puts them in the right rooms. Write 'Fragile - Plates' or 'Handle with Care - Glassware' to ensure delicate items receive special attention. Include room names like 'Kitchen' or 'Dining Room' to make unpacking easier. Use a permanent marker and write on several sides of each box so labels stay visible. Good labeling makes your whole move go smoother and keeps things organized.

Stuff the Empty Spots

Fill all empty spaces in your boxes to keep dishes from moving around. Here are four ways to do it right:

1. Packing Paper: Crumple up paper to fill spaces around dishes and create soft cushioning

2. Bubble Wrap: Wrap glasses individually and use leftover wrap to fill any gaps in the box

3. Kitchen Towels: Use clean towels or cloth napkins between plates and bowls, plus fill empty areas

4. Foam Peanuts: Add foam peanuts or air pillows on top of packed dishes to keep everything locked in place during the trip

Other Related Topics:

• How to Move a Refrigerator

• What Should You Pack First When Moving