How to Pack Dishes for Moving?
Pack dishes vertically (like records) in dish boxes with crumpled packing paper between each item. Use cell dividers for glasses. Fill all gaps with paper to prevent shifting, and label boxes as fragile. See our Moving Resources Hub for more packing guides.
Key Takeaways
- Start with a sturdy dish pack or double-walled box—similar care applies when packing books for moving—and line the bottom with crumpled packing paper.
- Newspaper ink can transfer to dishes—use plain packing paper or wrap dishes in paper first.
- Don't overpack boxes—dish boxes should weigh under 50 lbs.
Explanation
Start with a sturdy dish pack or double-walled box—similar care applies when packing books for moving—and line the bottom with crumpled packing paper. Wrap each plate individually in packing paper, folding corners in. Stack plates vertically—they're stronger on edge than flat.
For bowls, nest 2-3 together wrapped as a bundle. Wrap glasses individually and place them rim-down in cell dividers if available, or cushion heavily with paper. Crystal and fine china need extra padding.
Fill all empty spaces with crumpled paper so nothing shifts during transit. The box should feel firm when gently shaken. Seal with strong tape and clearly mark 'FRAGILE' and 'THIS SIDE UP' on all sides.
Dish pack boxes (also called dish barrels) have double-walled construction that provides roughly twice the crush resistance of standard moving boxes. They cost $3-6 each compared to $1-2 for regular boxes, but the investment is worth it for fragile kitchenware. A single dish pack box holds approximately 12-15 wrapped dinner plates or 8-10 wrapped bowls. Plan on 2-4 dish packs for a typical kitchen, depending on how much dishware you own.
Wine glasses and stemware require extra care because the stem is the weakest point. Wrap the stem separately by rolling a sheet of packing paper around it, then wrap the entire glass. Place stemware rim-down in cell dividers with the stem pointing up. If you do not have cell dividers, create DIY compartments by cutting cardboard strips and interlocking them in a grid pattern inside the box. Each compartment should be snug enough that the glass does not wobble when the box is tilted.
Things to Know
- Newspaper ink can transfer to dishes—use plain packing paper or wrap dishes in paper first. Label dish boxes as fragile on all sides.
- Don't overpack boxes—dish boxes should weigh under 50 lbs.
- Take photos of valuable dishware before packing for insurance purposes. Pack dishes alongside electronics that also need careful wrapping so you can tackle all fragile items at once.
- Ceramic mugs with handles are especially prone to breakage. Stuff the inside of each mug with crumpled paper, then wrap the handle area with an extra layer of bubble wrap before wrapping the whole mug in packing paper. Place mugs handle-up in the box so the handle does not bear weight.