A Guide to Safely Packing Your Dishes for Moving
Packing Your Dishes
Moving can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to fragile items like dishes. Proper packing is essential to ensure your beloved dinnerware arrives at your new home in one piece. Follow these steps to pack your dishes securely and with care:
Materials You’ll Need:
- Sturdy boxes in various sizes
- Packing paper or bubble wrap
- Packing tape
- Marker for labeling
Step 1: Choose the Right Boxes Select sturdy boxes that are specifically designed for moving. These boxes are typically stronger and more reliable than random containers you might find. Consider using dish packs or double-walled boxes for added protection.
Step 2: Prepare the Boxes Before packing your dishes, reinforce the bottom of each box with packing tape. This prevents the box from collapsing under the weight of your dishes during the move.
Step 3: Cushioning is Key Begin by placing a layer of crumpled packing paper or bubble wrap at the bottom of the box. This acts as a cushion and helps absorb any shocks during transit.
Step 4: Wrap Each Dish Individually Wrap each dish separately to prevent them from chipping or breaking. Start with the larger and heavier items like plates and platters. Place them in the center of the paper or bubble wrap and fold the corners over the item. Secure with tape. For bowls and fragile items like wine glasses, wrap them similarly and make sure to cushion the bottom as well.
Step 5: Arrange Dishes Neatly Place the wrapped dishes in the box vertically, like you would in a dishwasher. This distributes the weight evenly and reduces the risk of breakage. Fill any gaps with additional crumpled paper or bubble wrap to ensure a snug fit.
Step 6: Separation is Key In between each layer of dishes, insert a layer of cardboard or bubble wrap to create a protective barrier. This prevents dishes from touching and potentially causing damage through friction.
Step 7: Top it Off Once the box is nearly full, add another layer of cushioning on top and then seal the box securely with packing tape. Be sure to label the box as “Fragile” and “Dishes” to alert movers to handle it with care.
Step 8: Pack Glasses and Stemware For wine glasses and stemware, use specialized glassware boxes if possible. If not, wrap each glass individually and place them in a box with dividers. Again, label the box as “Fragile.”
Step 9: Secure the Box for Moving Before moving the boxes, ensure they are sealed tightly and won’t shift during transit. Use additional tape as needed to reinforce the box’s seams.
By following these steps, you can pack your dishes safely and securely, minimizing the risk of breakage during your move. Taking the time to pack them properly will help ensure your dishes arrive at your new home in perfect condition, ready to serve your next meal.
