Packing Dishes and Glassware Made Simple: A Step-by-Step Guide

Packing your delicate dishes, china, and glassware might feel like one of the harder parts of moving, but it doesn’t have to be! With the right strategies and supplies, you can protect your fragile items and keep them in one piece, no matter how far they’re traveling. This step-by-step guide will show you how to pack dishes and glassware like a pro.

Gather Your Supplies Before Packing Dishes

Before you start packing, make sure you’ve got everything you need on hand. The right packing materials can make all the difference in protecting your fragile items. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Dish packs (sturdy moving boxes designed for fragile items)
• Bubble wrap or clean packing paper
• Crumpled paper for padding
• Cardboard dividers or cell packs for extra organization
• Packing tape and markers

Dish packs are a great way to keep your fragile items safe during a move. These boxes are built with double-wall construction for extra protection. You can grab them from ADSI or most stores that sell moving supplies.

Pro tip: Want more tips on packing sensitive items? Check out our guide for step-by-step advice!

Step-by-Step Guide to Packing Dishes and Glassware

1. Start with the Box

Set up your dish pack by lining the bottom of the box with crumpled paper. This creates a cushioning layer to absorb bumps and shocks during the move. For even more protection, you can add a layer of bubble wrap or cardboard over the paper padding.

2. Wrap Plates and Dishes

• Larger china and glass plates, platters, and other flat pieces are excellent as the lowest layer in a dish pack.
• Wrap each plate individually using packing paper or bubble wrap. If they’re especially delicate, add a few extra layers for good measure.
• Bundle plates in groups of up to four and wrap the bundle in another layer of paper. Place them on their side in the box—not flat—to reduce the risk of cracking.
• Fill any empty spaces around the plates with crumpled paper to prevent shifting.

3. Take Care of Bowls and Other Odd Shapes

• Wrap bowls just like plates, but bundle them in smaller groups (no more than three). Save the large, heavier bowls for the bottom layer of the box and lighter bowls for the middle layers.
• Stand shallow bowls (soup plates) on edge in the carton and deep ones (such as mixing bowls) nested two or three together, upside down on their rims.
• For items with lids, like teapots, wrap the lids separately, then bundle them together with an extra layer of paper.
• Wrap cream pitchers in clean paper and then a double outer wrapping. Place sugar bowls, cream pitchers, sauce containers, and similar pieces upright in the carton.

Looking for more detailed advice on packing your kitchen? Check out this ultimate guide to packing your kitchen for expert tips!

4. Protect Glassware and Stemware

• Pay extra attention to the fragile stems on glassware like wine glasses. Wrap the stem with folded paper first, then wrap the entire glass in packing paper or bubble wrap.
• Use cardboard dividers or cell packs to keep glasses and mugs separated in the box. If you don’t have dividers, surround each item with plenty of crumpled paper to keep them snug.
• When packing china, even in a dish pack, make sure to wrap each cup individually and give the handles an extra layer of paper for protection. Pack the cups upside down for added safety.

5. Pack in Layers

• Start by placing the heaviest items at the bottom of the box for stability.
• Wrap each bundle with crushed paper, making sure to fill any empty spaces. Add a couple of inches of crushed paper on top to protect the rims and create a flat surface for the next layer. Using horizontal cardboard dividers can help keep the layers even.
• Lighter items like cups and saucers should always go on top.
• Once the box is full, add a final layer of crumpled paper on top to cushion the contents before closing it up.

6. Seal and Label It

Seal the box securely with packing tape, and don’t forget to label it! Clearly mark the box as “Fragile” and add a short description like “China and Glassware.” This lets your movers know to handle the box with care.

Want extra peace of mind? Learn when and how to get insurance for your move to keep your valuables covered!

Don’t Forget These Helpful Packing Tips

• Leave no empty spaces in the box! Use crumpled paper to fill any gaps and keep items from shifting around.
• Avoid overloading your boxes. Heavier boxes are harder to carry and more likely to be dropped.
• When loading your moving truck, place fragile boxes on top of sturdier, heavier ones.
• For more packing tips, check out our collection of moving checklists and guides.

Why Choose ADSI for Your Move

Packing dishes and glassware might not be the most fun part of moving, but it’s easier when you know the right steps. If you’d prefer to save time (and skip the stress), ADSI is here to help whether you’re moving long distance or right up the road. From expertly packing your fragile items to delivering them safely to your new home, we offer reliable, professional moving services you can trust.

Got a move coming up? Request a quote from ADSI today and see how we can make your move smoother and easier. You focus on the excitement of your new home—we’ll take care of the rest!