Published: March 01, 2025

How to Pack Dishes for a Move

Packing dishes for a move requires careful planning to prevent chips, cracks, and breakage. Using sturdy boxes, plenty of cushioning, and proper wrapping techniques is essential to keep your dishes safe and secure. With the right materials and techniques, you can ensure your dishes arrive at your new home in perfect condition. Follow this guide to pack your dishes like a pro and make moving day less stressful.

Gather Your Packing Supplies

Before you start, make sure you have the right materials to pack your dishes safely. You’ll need:

• Sturdy moving boxes
• Packing paper or newspaper
• Bubble wrap
• Packing tape
• Dish dividers (optional)
• Towels or soft linens for extra cushioning

Using high-quality supplies will help protect your dishes from shifting and breaking during transit.

Wrap Each Dish Individually

To properly pack dishes, wrap each item individually to prevent scratches and breakage. Start by placing a dish in the center of a packing paper sheet and folding the edges over the dish. Add a layer of bubble wrap for extra protection. Plates should be wrapped separately and stacked vertically like records to distribute weight evenly. Bowls and glassware should also be wrapped and placed with padding in between.

How to Pack Dishes in Boxes the Right Way

Start by placing a layer of crumpled packing paper or towels at the bottom for cushioning. Stack heavier items, like plates, vertically at the bottom to reduce pressure. Add packing paper or bubble wrap, then place smaller items like bowls on top. Fill empty spaces with crumpled paper to prevent shifting. Once full, add padding and seal with tape. Give the box a shake—if you hear movement, add more cushioning.

Label and Secure Your Boxes

Proper labeling makes unpacking much easier. Clearly mark each box with “FRAGILE” and “DISHES” so everyone knows to handle them with care. Use a bold marker to ensure the labels are easy to see. You can also add “This Side Up” to prevent boxes from being turned upside down. For extra security, reinforce the bottom of each box with more packing tape. This prevents any unexpected openings while carrying the boxes.

Use Small or Medium-Sized Boxes

Dishes can get heavy quickly, so avoid using large boxes that become too cumbersome to lift. Medium or small boxes are best for packing dishes because they’re easier to carry and provide better support for fragile items. Don’t overpack the boxes, as this can put too much strain on the seams and increase the risk of damage. Keeping the weight manageable also reduces the chances of boxes breaking under pressure.

Transport Your Dishes With Care

When loading your boxes, place dish boxes on top of heavier, sturdier items rather than underneath bulky furniture. If possible, keep them upright and close together to minimize shifting during the move. Adding extra padding around the boxes, such as blankets or towels, can provide additional protection against bumps and jolts. You can also transport especially delicate dishes separately to ensure they stay safe.

Unpack With Caution

Once you arrive at your new home, unpack your dishes carefully. Open each box slowly, and check for any signs of damage before removing items. Handle each dish with care to avoid unexpected slips or breaks. Set up a soft surface, like a towel, to place dishes on while unpacking to prevent accidental drops. Wash all of your dishes before putting them away to remove any dust or residue from the packing materials.

Packing dishes for a move doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right supplies, careful wrapping, and strategic box placement, you can ensure your dishes stay safe from start to finish. Planning ahead and packing your dishes early will give you plenty of time to do the job right without feeling rushed. Take your time, follow these steps, and you’ll be unpacking your dishes in perfect condition at your new home in no time.

Looking for hassle-free moving services? Visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Northeast Kansas or call us today at (785) 706-4242.