Moving day is just around the corner, and one of the most intimidating parts of the process is figuring out how to safely pack your dishes. From fine china to everyday plates and bowls, these fragile items need a little extra attention to ensure they arrive at your new home intact. Luckily, with the right techniques and materials, it’s entirely possible to protect your dinnerware from chips, cracks, and breakage. In this comprehensive guide, brought to you by Chicago Packers and Movers, we’ll walk you through the entire process of packing your dishes like a pro.
Why Packing Dishes Properly Is Important
It’s easy to underestimate just how delicate dishes can be. While they might feel sturdy in your hands, they’re surprisingly vulnerable to damage during a move. Plates can chip when stacked incorrectly, stemware can shatter at the slightest jolt, and bowls can crack from pressure if they aren’t properly cushioned. The good news is that with careful packing, these risks can be significantly reduced.
Proper packing techniques not only help you avoid the disappointment of unpacking a box of broken heirlooms, but they also prevent unnecessary expenses. Replacing broken dishes can quickly add up, especially if the pieces are part of a special set or hold sentimental value.
Beyond that, taking the time to pack your dishes well leads to peace of mind. Nothing beats the feeling of opening your boxes in your new home and finding everything just as it was before the move.
Materials Needed
Before you start packing, gather all the materials you’ll need. Using high-quality supplies makes a big difference in how well your dishes fare on the road. Here’s what we recommend:
- Dish Pack Boxes or Sturdy Moving Boxes: Choose boxes specifically designed for fragile items, often called “dish packs,” or opt for strong, corrugated cardboard boxes.
- Packing Paper: Clean, white packing paper provides cushioning without transferring ink to your dishes.
- Bubble Wrap: Ideal for extra delicate pieces like stemware or fine china.
- Packing Tape: A strong, reliable tape ensures boxes stay sealed and secure.
- Markers and Fragile Labels: You’ll need these to clearly mark boxes that contain breakables.
- Cushioning Material (Towels, Rags, or Foam): Additional soft layers can be placed at the bottom and top of boxes for extra protection.
Step-by-Step Packing Process
1. Prepare Your Workspace
Start by clearing a large, flat area where you can spread out your packing materials. A clean kitchen table, a dining room surface, or even a cleared countertop works well. Make sure you have enough room to wrap each dish individually and set aside completed stacks.
2. Wrap Each Dish Individually
To protect each item, place it in the center of a sheet of packing paper. Fold in the corners of the paper so the dish is entirely covered. For plates, this might mean using two or three sheets of paper per item, depending on their size. Take your time—the more thoroughly you wrap each piece, the better its chances of making it safely through the move.
3. Pack Plates Vertically
One of the best tips for preventing chips and cracks is to stand plates on their edges rather than stacking them flat.
This reduces stress on any one dish. Place a layer of crumpled paper or bubble wrap at the bottom of the box, then carefully position the plates side by side like books on a shelf. Add a layer of cushioning material between each plate for extra protection.
4. Wrap and Nest Bowls and Glassware
Bowls and glasses require a slightly different approach. Wrap each piece individually, just like the plates, ensuring all surfaces are covered.
You can nest bowls of similar size together by placing a layer of paper between them, but don’t force them to fit if it feels too snug. Glasses, especially stemware, should be wrapped individually and placed upright, not on their sides. Consider using a small layer of bubble wrap around the most delicate portions, like stems and rims.
5. Fill In Gaps and Add Cushioning Layers
Once the bottom layer of dishes is in place, add more crumpled paper or bubble wrap on top before adding another layer of items.
Filling all empty spaces is crucial because any empty gap can allow dishes to shift during transport. The less movement inside the box, the safer your dishes will be. Top off the box with a final layer of cushioning material before sealing it.
6. Seal and Label Your Boxes
Use sturdy packing tape to close the box securely. Don’t be afraid to go around the box more than once—an extra strip of tape is worth the security it provides. Once sealed, clearly mark the box as “Fragile – Dishes” and note which room it belongs to.
Labels guide movers and friends to handle these boxes with care. With Chicago Packers and Movers, we always prioritize proper labeling to ensure your fragile goods receive the careful handling they deserve.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using Only Newspaper:
While newspaper might seem like a cost-effective solution, its ink can transfer onto your dishes, and it may not provide enough cushioning. Instead, opt for clean, ink-free packing paper or bubble wrap.
Overfilling Boxes:
It’s tempting to cram as many dishes as possible into a single box, but this only increases the chances of breakage. Heavier boxes are harder to carry and more likely to be dropped. Distribute dishes among multiple boxes so each one is manageable and well-cushioned.
Skipping Labels
Never overlook labeling. Without a clear “Fragile” warning, even a careful mover might treat the box as any other. Labels prompt gentle handling and can save you from heartache when unpacking.
Ignoring Specialty Dish Packs:
Dish packs are designed with built-in dividers and extra layers of support. While standard boxes work in a pinch, dish packs can significantly reduce the risk of damage. Investing in these specialty boxes can save you time and stress down the line.
Additional Tips from the Professionals
Start Early:
Don’t wait until the night before your move to pack your dishes. Packing takes time and care, and rushing is a recipe for broken plates. Begin at least a week or two in advance, starting with items you don’t use daily.
Consider Professional Help:
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or simply don’t have the time, consider reaching out to professional movers. At Chicago Packers and Movers, we offer expert packing services, ensuring your breakables are handled with the utmost care. With our experience and resources, we can streamline this process and give you one less thing to worry about.
Box Placement in the Truck:
When loading boxes, place dish boxes on top of heavier furniture or sturdier items. Keeping them off the bottom reduces pressure and prevents damage. The goal is to minimize any weight pressing down on your fragile dishware.
FAQs
Q: Can I Reuse Old Boxes?
A: While reusing boxes is budget-friendly, it’s not always the best option for delicate items. Old boxes may have weakened structural integrity. If you must reuse, make sure the box is sturdy, clean, and in good shape.
Q: What If I Run Out of Packing Paper?
A: Bubble wrap, towels, or even soft linens can serve as a substitute. Just ensure these materials are clean and won’t leave residue. The key is providing enough cushioning around every dish.
Q: When Should I Start Packing My Dishes?
A: Ideally, begin a week or two before your move—sooner if you have a large collection. Start with dishes you rarely use, such as holiday platters or fine china. That way, you won’t miss them in your daily routine.
Q: Do I Really Need Dish Packs?
A: While not absolutely mandatory, dish packs are designed with fragile items in mind. They often include built-in dividers and thicker cardboard, making them a worthwhile investment if you have valuable or fragile dishware.
Conclusion
Packing dishes doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right materials, a bit of patience, and careful wrapping, you’ll keep every plate, bowl, and glass intact. Start early, stay organized, and use quality supplies to make unpacking simple and hassle-free. If you’d rather let experts handle it, Chicago Packers and Movers is ready to help. With professional service and a focus on customer satisfaction, we’ll ensure every dish arrives safely in your new home.