Moving to a new home can be an exciting adventure, but packing fragile items like dishes requires some extra care to ensure they arrive safely. Whether you’re transporting everyday dishes or heirloom china, taking the right steps will help prevent breakage. Follow these expert tips and let your move be smooth, stress-free, and without a single cracked plate.

Best Ways to Pack Dishes for a Move

When it comes to dishes, each piece deserves individual attention to avoid unnecessary damage. Start by wrapping each item carefully in bubble wrap or packing paper, and remember, cushioning is key! From oven mitts to T-shirts, use soft materials to pad the space between items. Just avoid using newspaper, as it may leave ink stains.

Make sure not to overstuff the boxes. Heavier items should go in smaller boxes, with heavier pots and plates on the bottom and lighter items on top. Secure the boxes tightly and distribute weight evenly for safe transport.

Packing Bowls and Plates

For delicate china or ceramic dishes, wrap each plate and bowl individually. To maximize space, consider stacking plates vertically with padding (like cardboard) between them. If you’re using dish pack boxes, they’re a great investment—they offer individual compartments that provide extra protection. Even in standard boxes, always ensure there’s ample padding above and below the dishes.

Mugs, Cups, and Drinking Glasses

For fragile mugs and glassware, individual wrapping is a must. You can also use foam sleeves or packing peanuts to fill any empty spaces. Make sure that each item has its own protection, even if you’re using specialized glass packing boxes.

Stemware: Handle With Extra Care

Packing stemware, like wine glasses, requires special attention. Wrap each glass individually and place it in a separate compartment within the box. If you’re using standard moving boxes, make sure to add extra padding around the glasses, especially the stems, which are the most fragile part.

Pots and Pans

For pots and pans, wrapping is essential to avoid scratching, especially for non-stick cookware. If you’re moving stoneware or clay pots, extra cushioning is necessary. Cast iron cookware, while durable, needs wrapping too, so it doesn’t damage more fragile items during transit.

Packing Utensils and Sharp Knives

Most kitchen utensils can be packed together. However, sharp knives should be handled with care—wrap each one individually and group them together, securing them with cardboard. Label this box as containing “sharp items” to prevent accidents when unpacking.

Moving Tips: Keep It Efficient

  • Use Available Materials: T-shirts, towels, and bedding aren’t just for wearing—they make great packing materials!
  • Label Boxes: Label every fragile box clearly, and mark the top to avoid accidental flipping. This will help movers place them in the right spot.
  • Tape Boxes Well: Secure every box with packing tape to prevent items from shifting if the box is dropped.
  • Box Sizes Matter: Don’t try to pack heavy items in big boxes. Use small boxes for heavy items like plates and pots.

Avoid Common Packing Mistakes

  • Don’t Overpack: Overstuffing boxes increases the risk of breakage. Boxes should be able to close securely without bulging.
  • Pack in Advance: Packing in a rush is never a good idea, especially with fragile items. Start early to ensure everything is packed with care.
  • Leave Essentials Accessible: Keep out essential kitchen items that you’ll need until the last minute. You don’t want to dig through boxes to find a coffee mug on moving day!

At Movers Not Shakers, we understand that packing delicate items, like dishes, requires special attention. That’s why we offer customized packing services in New York designed to suit your specific needs. Our team of experts ensures that every item, from fragile glassware to heavy cookware, is packed securely and transported with care. Whether you’re moving locally or across the city, trust us to handle all your packing and moving needs with precision and reliability. Reach out to us today to learn more about how we can make your move stress-free.