Moving day creeping up faster than you’d like? Staring at your kitchen cabinets, wondering if your beloved dinnerware will survive the journey? Yep, packing dishes for moving can seem like threading a needle with oven mitts on. But don’t panic! Whether you’ve got a cherished set of china from Grandma or the daily plates you snagged at Target, learning how to pack dishes for moving, without a single crack or chip, is totally doable. Let’s roll up those sleeves and get your kitchen boxed up the safe way.Or better yet, let professional residential movers handle it—so your fragile items arrive just as beautiful as they left.
Why Properly Packing Dishes Matters
Let’s face it: dishes are awkward, fragile, and oddly shaped. If you just toss them in a box, you’re asking for a box full of heartbreak (and ceramic confetti) on the other side. The last thing you want is to open a carton and find your favorite mug in more pieces than a jigsaw puzzle. That’s why knowing how to pack dishes for moving isn’t just a good idea; it’s essential. With the right strategy, you’ll dodge disaster and keep your kitchenware intact.
Supplies You’ll Need Before Packing Dishes
Before you channel your inner packing ninja, gather these essentials:
- Sturdy moving boxes (dish packs or double-walled boxes are best)
- Packing paper (avoid newspaper—it can leave stains!)
- Bubble wrap (for those extra delicate items)
- Packing tape (splurge on the good stuff)
- Permanent marker (for labeling boxes)
- Cardboard dividers (optional, but oh-so-useful)
- Towels or soft cloths (for extra padding)
Trust us, you can never have too much padding. When it comes to dishes, it’s better to be a little over the top than underprepared!
How to Pack Dishes for Moving: Step-by-Step
Ready to tackle the kitchen? Here’s how to pack dishes for moving, step by step—so you can breathe easy and avoid the dreaded clink of broken china.
1. Prep Your Boxes Like a Pro
Before a single plate goes in, reinforce the bottom of each box with a generous layer of packing tape. Then, line the bottom with crumpled packing paper, towels, or bubble wrap for cushioning. This creates a cushy buffer zone: think of it as a safety net for your ceramics.
2. Wrap Each Dish Individually
Grab a stack of packing paper (not newspaper, unless you fancy newsprint stains). Lay a dish in the center, fold the paper up and over, and tuck the edges underneath. For extra fragile or valuable pieces, add a layer of bubble wrap on top of the paper. Don’t skimp here; every dish needs its own cocoon.
3. Stack Plates Vertically, Not Flat
Here’s a pro tip: never stack plates flat. Instead, place them upright on their sides like records in a crate. Why is this better? Plates are strongest on their edge, so they’re less likely to break this way. Place a layer of crumpled paper between each plate for extra cushion.
4. Fill in the Gaps
After you’ve loaded a row of dishes, fill any spaces with more packing paper, bubble wrap, or even soft kitchen towels. The goal? No wiggling, no shifting. You want those dishes snugger than a bug in a rug.
5. Layer Up
Once you reach the top of the box or finish with one type of dish, add another thick layer of padding. If you’re packing different types of dishes in one box, always put heaviest items (like dinner plates) on the bottom and lighter items (like saucers or cups) on top.
6. Seal and Label
When your box is full (but not bulging), add a final layer of padding. Tape the box securely, then label it “FRAGILE: DISHES – THIS SIDE UP.” Trust us, future you will thank past you when it’s time to unpack.
How to Pack Different Types of Dishes for Moving
Not all dishes are created equal. Here’s how to pack dishes for moving, whether you’ve got plates, bowls, glasses, or Grandma’s gravy boat.
Packing Plates and Bowls
- Plates: Always stack vertically with padding in between.
- Bowls: Nest smaller bowls inside larger ones, with paper between each. Wrap the stacked items with additional packing paper or bubble wrap.
Packing Glasses and Cups
- Glasses: Fill the inside with packing paper, wrap the stem if there is one, then wrap the entire glass. Always place them upright in the box, not on their sides.
- Cups: Place packing paper inside and wrap around the handle. If stacking, always add padding between each cup.
Packing Odd-Shaped Items
- Pitchers, teapots, and gravy boats: Wrap handles and spouts thoroughly, then cocoon the entire item. Place in the box upright, surrounded by padding.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Packing Dishes
- Skimping on padding: More is always better.
- Overfilling boxes: Heavy boxes = broken dishes (and sore backs).
- Forgetting to label: Mark every box as “FRAGILE” and indicate which side is up.
- Packing dishes flat: Always stand them on their edge.
- Using newspaper: Ink can stain your dishes—use clean packing paper instead.
FAQs: How to Pack Dishes for Moving
How many dishes should I put in one box?
Aim for 8–12 plates or bowls per medium box, depending on thickness and padding. Don’t overload the box, a heavy box is a risky box.
Can I use towels instead of packing paper?
Absolutely! Clean towels and soft clothes make excellent padding. Just avoid anything with zippers or buttons that could scratch your dishes.
How do I pack wine glasses or stemware?
Stuff the bowl with paper, wrap the stem, then wrap the entire glass. Place upright in a divided box or snugly surrounded by padding.
Is bubble wrap better than packing paper?
Packing paper is great for most dishes, but bubble wrap is best for delicate glass or sentimental pieces. Use both for maximum protection.
Ready to Move Without the Hassle? Book AFA Movers!
There you have it—your complete, no-nonsense guide on how to pack dishes for moving. With these steps, you’ll sidestep the heartbreak of shattered plates and welcome your dishes to their new home, safe and sound.
Still feeling overwhelmed? Or maybe you’d just rather binge-watch your favorite series while someone else handles the packing chaos? Good news! The pros at AFA Movers have seen (and packed) it all, from dainty teacups to oversized platters.
Why juggle bubble wrap and boxes when you can let AFA Movers take the wheel?
Give ’em a ring, kick back, and enjoy a move that’s as smooth as your favorite latte—no broken dishes, no stress, just peace of mind!
