Dishes are some of the most fragile—and essential—items to pack when preparing for a move. Plates, bowls, and glasses can easily crack or shatter if not packed with care. At Clean and Careful Moving, we’ve helped thousands of customers safely relocate their kitchens, and we’re sharing our top tips to help you do the same. Follow this guide to make sure your dishware arrives at your new home in one piece.
Supplies You’ll Need:
Before you begin packing your dishes, gather these materials:
- Sturdy cardboard boxes (dish packs or small moving boxes are ideal)
- Packing paper or unprinted newsprint
- Bubble wrap (for extra fragile items)
- Packing tape
- Permanent marker (for labeling)
- Dividers (optional but helpful for glasses and mugs)
Step 1: Reinforce Your Boxes
Start by sealing the bottom of your moving boxes with extra packing tape to prevent collapse. Add a thick layer of crumpled packing paper at the bottom to create a cushion for your dishes.
Step 2: Wrap Each Dish Individually
Wrap each plate, bowl, or glass in packing paper. Stack plates vertically like records—not flat—to reduce the risk of breakage. For delicate items like wine glasses, use bubble wrap and stuff the interior with paper for extra protection.
Step 3: Pack by Category
Group similar dishes together (e.g., all plates in one box, bowls in another). Heavier items should go on the bottom, lighter ones on top. Avoid overpacking—boxes should be full but not bulging.
Step 4: Fill Empty Spaces
Use extra paper or soft kitchen towels to fill in any gaps in the box. This prevents shifting during transit, which is often what causes breakage.
Step 5: Label Boxes Clearly
Mark each box as “FRAGILE” and include a brief list of contents like “Dinner Plates” or “Glassware.” Indicate “This Side Up” where necessary.
Bonus Tip: Use Dish Packs
If you want maximum protection, consider using specialty dish pack boxes with built-in dividers. These boxes are thicker and provide added protection for fine china or valuable dishware.
Let Clean and Careful Moving Do the Heavy Lifting
Want to skip the hassle altogether? Our professional movers at Clean and Careful Moving are trained to pack kitchens safely and efficiently. We treat every item like it’s our own—especially your most delicate belongings.
Contact us today to learn more about our full packing services and get a free quote for your next move!
