How to pack crockery and glasses for your move: a complete guide

Moving can be stressful, especially when it comes to packing delicate items such as plates and glasses. Fragile kitchen items, such as crockery and glasses, are particularly sensitive and can easily be damaged, resulting in loss. However, by using the right strategies and packaging materials, you can avoid such damage.

This blog will guide you through the step-by-step process of packing moving crockery. We'll cover everything from choosing the right packing materials to expert tips for effective packing. In addition, we'll discuss common mistakes made when packing crockery for a move and highlight the benefits of hiring professional movers to help you with packing and moving.

Step-by-step guide to packing dishes

Packing crockery can be tricky because it's heavy and prone to splintering or breaking. Follow these steps to ensure that your dishes are packed safely.

Step 1: Prepare the box

Before you start packing, line the bottom of your box with crumpled paper or bubble wrap. This creates a protective layer that will absorb shocks during transport. Particularly reinforce the bottom of the box if it is to contain heavy crockery.

Step 2: Wrap each plate individually

Lay out a stack of wrapping paper on a flat surface. Take a plate and place it in the center of the paper. Then fold one corner of the paper over the plate, fold in the sides, and roll forward to wrap completely. For extra protection, use two sheets for each plate.

Add an extra layer of bubble wrap to the wrapping paper for fragile or expensive plates, for extra protection.

Step 3: Pack into Layers

Just as you would when stacking discs, place each packed plate vertically in the box. This vertical arrangement reduces the risk of breakage, as they won't collide when being moved.

After wrapping a layer of plates, place a layer of crumpled paper or bubble wrap before starting another layer on top. Each plate is thus protected from both the bottom and the top.

Step 4: Fill the empty spaces

Once you've packed all the plates, fill the remaining empty spaces in the box with crumpled paper or bubble wrap to prevent them from shifting during transport, which could lead to cracks.

Step-by-step guide to glass packaging

Glasses, especially those with feet, require extra care and protection. Follow these steps to ensure that your glasses arrive intact at your new home.

Step 1: Prepare your glassware

Make sure all your glassware is clean and dry before packing. Packing wet glass can lead to mold growth or moisture damage during the move.

Step 2: Pack each glass separately

Take a sheet of packing paper and place a glass in the center of the paper. Wrap the glass so that its entire surface is covered. For stemware or other very delicate objects, add a layer of bubble wrap after the wrapping paper for extra protection.

Step 3: Using glass separators

If you're using a box with dividers, place each packed glass in its own compartment to prevent them coming into contact, thus preventing scratches and breakage during transport. You can also fill the inside of the glasses with crumpled paper for added stability.

Step 4: Securing the box

Once all the glasses are packed, use crumpled wrapping paper or air bubbles to fill the top of the box and make sure everything is tight and secure. Seal the box securely with tape, and don't forget to label it "Fragile" so that movers can handle it with care.

Why is Correct Packaging of Dishes and Glasses Essential?

Fragile Items Need Special Attention

In your home, certain items such as plates, glasses and other kitchen utensils are very delicate. A small movement during transport can easily lead to cracks or breakages, increasing expenses and causing a lot of frustration. Taking a little time to pack your dishes properly will save you the stress of discovering broken items when unpacking.

If crockery and glassware are not properly packed, they may collide, increasing the chances of damage. What's more, small movements during transport can make a big difference to delicate items. That's why it's crucial to use the right tools, materials and proven techniques.

The Materials You'll Need to Pack Dishes and Glasses

Before you start packing, gather all the necessary materials. The right materials will make all the difference in protecting your items during the move. Here's what you'll need:

• Removal wrapping paper: This paper is ideal because it doesn't leave ink marks like newspapers. It is versatile and can be used to wrap each item individually, offering both protection and cushioning.
• Bubble wrap: offers extra protection for delicate items such as stemware or fine china, in addition to the original packaging. It is particularly useful for protruding parts, such as handles and feet, which are more likely to break.
• Robust boxes: Protecting your items depends on the strength and durability of the box you choose. Opt for reinforced boxes, specially designed for crockery and glassware.
• Carton dividers: Available from many moving supply stores, they help prevent movement between items and prevent collisions during transport.

Common mistakes to avoid when packing

Even with the right materials, incorrect packing techniques can still lead to damage. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:

Wrong calculation of box capacity

Often, when many plates are placed in the same container with glassware, they become too heavy, increasing the risk of breakage. Avoid overloading by keeping the weight manageable. Ideally, no box should weigh more than 30 pounds.

Inadequate cushioning

One of the most common mistakes is not having enough paper to wrap dishes or padding between items. Even packed together with paper, there may be gaps where items can move during transport. Always make sure that there is enough padding between each individual piece and that there are no empty spaces left in the box.

Mixing fragile and heavy items

Never put fragile moving crockery together with heavy items in the same box. Heavy items such as pots and pans can damage your fragile plates and glasses during transport. Pack all fragile materials in separate boxes with adequate padding on all sides.

Professional Packing Services with Déménagement WillGo

When it comes to packing fragile items such as crockery and glassware, hiring professional movers can offer peace of mind. At Déménagement WillGo, we understand the complexities of packing delicate dinnerware and offer expert services to ensure your items are handled with the utmost care. Whether you're moving across town or over long distances, our experienced team will ensure that your fragile items are packed safely and transported without risk.

Déménagement WillGo provides specialized packing materials and techniques for handling delicate dishes such as plates, glasses and fine china. We use reinforced boxes, protective padding and precise labels to minimize the risk of damage in transit. With our comprehensive packing services , you can concentrate on your installation while we take care of the safe transfer of your fragile items.

FAQs

• Can I pack different types of crockery in the same box?

Although it's possible to pack different types of crockery together, it's best to group similar items together. Heavier plates should be packed together, while delicate items such as fine china or ceramic bowls should be packed separately to avoid breakage. Use dividers or paper to pack crockery to create separation between different types of crockery, and make sure there's sufficient padding on all sides. Label the box with its contents and "Fragile" to remind movers to handle with care.

• How do I pack unusually shaped glassware?

Unusually shaped glassware, such as wine decanters or special drinking glasses, require special attention. Wrap each item in two layers of moving-ware wrapping paper, then add a layer of bubble wrap around more delicate areas such as stems or narrow necks. If possible, use dividers in the box or pack glassware individually in smaller boxes to avoid contact between pieces. Fill empty spaces with crumpled paper or foam peanuts to secure items. Make sure the box is labeled "Fragile" and "This Side Up" to ensure proper handling during the move.

• Do I need to pack fragile items separately from other household goods?

Yes, it's best to pack fragile items like crockery and glasses separately from heavier or sturdier items. This prevents them from being crushed or damaged by heavier objects during the move. Fragile items should be placed in boxes specially designated for delicate items, with plenty of padding and protective materials such as moving china wrapping paper, bubble wrap or foam inserts. Clearly label boxes as "Fragile" and avoid placing them under heavier boxes during transport. This approach guarantees better protection and minimizes the risk of breakage.

• How can I safely unpack fragile items after the move?

When unpacking fragile items such as crockery and glasses, start by clearing a clean, flat surface on which to place them. Carefully open the boxes and remove the top layer of cushioning material. Unpack each item slowly and inspect it for damage. Keep the packing materials until you've checked that everything has arrived safely. It's best to unpack fragile items first, so that they don't get in the way or fall out during the rest of the unpacking process.

• Can I reuse boxes and materials from a previous move to pack crockery and glasses?

Reusing old boxes to pack fragile items is generally not recommended. Over time, boxes lose their strength, and previously used boxes may be compromised by wear and tear. Old packaging materials, such as crumpled paper or bubble wrap, may also have lost their cushioning capacity. For fragile items such as crockery and glassware, it's best to invest in new, sturdy boxes and high-quality packaging materials to ensure maximum protection. If reuse is necessary, make sure the boxes are still in excellent condition and reinforce them with strong adhesive tape.

Conclusion

Good wrapping paper and proper packing techniques are essential for safely transporting fragile kitchen items. If you'd rather avoid the stress of packing, Déménagement WillGo offers professional services that guarantee the safety of your delicate items throughout the move.

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