Moving to a new home requires careful planning, especially when it comes to packing fragile items like dishes. Without proper packing techniques, dishes can easily break during transportation. Ensuring that each plate, bowl, and glass is securely packed can prevent damage and make unpacking much easier. By using the right materials and following a strategic approach, you can safely transport your dishes to your new home without any unnecessary losses. Let’s go over how to pack dishes for moving.

Preparing to Pack Your Dishes

Before you begin packing, gather all necessary supplies. Using sturdy moving boxes, packing paper, bubble wrap, and strong packing tape will help secure your dishes and prevent movement during transit. Dish-specific moving boxes, which have extra padding, can provide additional protection. If those are unavailable, standard moving boxes with adequate cushioning can also work well.

Sorting through your dishes before packing allows you to determine what you want to keep, donate, or discard. Moving presents an opportunity to declutter, so getting rid of old or unused dishware can lighten your load. Once you have decided which dishes to take, cleaning and drying them thoroughly ensures that no moisture gets trapped during packing, which can lead to mold or mildew.

Choosing the Right Packing Materials

Using high-quality packing materials is essential when packing dishes. Packing paper is one of the best options for wrapping plates and bowls, as it provides a soft but durable protective layer. Bubble wrap can be useful for particularly fragile or valuable pieces, such as china or glassware. Avoid using newspaper directly on dishes, as the ink can transfer and leave stains. Instead, use plain packing paper and save newspaper for additional cushioning inside boxes.

Cardboard dividers or dish pack inserts can be helpful for packing glasses and mugs, preventing them from knocking into each other during transit. Additionally, using small- to medium-sized boxes for dishes keeps the weight manageable and reduces the risk of boxes breaking under pressure. Reinforcing the bottom of each box with extra tape adds another layer of security.

Packing Plates and Bowls

The safest way to pack plates is by wrapping each one individually with packing paper. Stack wrapped plates vertically inside the box, rather than laying them flat, to minimize pressure and reduce the risk of breaking. Placing a cushioning layer, such as crumpled packing paper or a dish towel, at the bottom of the box provides additional shock absorption.

Bowls should also be wrapped individually and nested together, with packing paper placed between each bowl. If the bowls are particularly deep, stuffing them with additional packing paper helps prevent movement. When placing bowls in the box, ensure that heavier ones are on the bottom, with lighter ones on top, to prevent unnecessary pressure on delicate pieces.

Packing Glasses and Mugs

Glasses and mugs require extra care due to their fragile nature. Wrapping each piece individually with packing paper and stuffing the inside of glasses with additional paper provides protection. Placing glasses upright in the box, rather than on their sides, reduces the likelihood of breakage. If available, dividers can help separate glassware and keep them stable during transport.

For stemmed glasses, such as wine glasses, wrapping the stem separately and adding extra padding around the base prevents snapping. Placing these glasses near the top of the box and surrounding them with soft materials, like dish towels, can add further protection.

Securing the Boxes for Transport

Once dishes are packed, securing the boxes properly ensures they remain intact throughout the move. Filling any empty spaces in the box with packing paper, bubble wrap, or soft fabric prevents items from shifting. Shaking the box gently before sealing it helps identify any loose items that may require additional padding.

After packing, sealing the box with strong packing tape prevents accidental openings. Labeling each box as “Fragile – Dishes” and marking which side should be kept upright allows movers to handle them with care. Additionally, writing a note such as “Kitchen – Open First” can help prioritize unpacking in the new home.

Transporting and Unpacking Dishes

During transportation, placing dish boxes on top of heavier, sturdier items prevents unnecessary pressure. Avoid stacking heavy boxes on top of dishes, as excessive weight can lead to breakage. If moving the boxes yourself, securing them in a stable position inside the moving vehicle minimizes shifting and reduces the risk of damage.

When unpacking, handling dishes with care and placing them directly into cabinets or shelves helps prevent accidental drops. Checking each item for cracks or chips before storing them ensures that any damage is identified immediately. Washing dishes after unpacking removes any packing residue, ensuring they are clean and ready for use in your new home.

Conclusion

Packing dishes properly requires time and attention to detail, but following the right techniques helps ensure their safe arrival at your new home. Using quality packing materials, wrapping items securely, and labeling boxes appropriately all contribute to a smoother moving process. With careful packing and handling, your dishes will remain intact and ready for use in your new kitchen. For professional moving services that prioritize the safety of your belongings, visit Morse Van Lines. To learn more about packing best practices, explore resources from the American Moving & Storage Association.