Packing Plates for Moving: A Complete Guide to Safeguard Your Dishes

Packing plates for a move can be tricky, but with the right prep and technique, your kitchenware will arrive at your new home intact. Here’s a creative guide on how to securely pack your plates for a smooth transition.

Phase 1: Preparation for Packing Plates

Before you start, make sure you gather all the packing essentials. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Dish Boxes: These are specially designed for fragile kitchenware. Dish boxes are sturdy, double-walled boxes that offer extra protection for your plates, bowls, glasses, and mugs. If you don’t have access to these, regular moving boxes will work, but you’ll need to add extra padding inside.
• Packing Paper: The best friend of any fragile dishware. You’ll need plenty of it to wrap your plates securely. The more paper you use, the better the protection!
• Newspapers: If packing paper is expensive, newspapers can be an affordable alternative for cushioning, especially for non-delicate items.
• Bubble Wrap: The classic protector, bubble wrap ensures your dishes stay safe by absorbing shocks and vibrations.
• Sealing Tape: Quality tape will keep everything sealed tightly, preventing mishaps during transit.

Phase 2: Step-by-Step Guide to Packing Plates

Now that you’ve gathered your materials, it’s time to pack! Here’s how to do it the right way:

Step 1: Prepare Your Box

Take a medium-sized cardboard box (preferably a dish box) and tape the bottom securely. Use a wide strip of tape across the entire bottom, ensuring the edges are reinforced to handle the weight of your delicate kitchenware.

Step 2: Create a Protective Base

Start by adding a layer of crumpled newspaper at the bottom of the box. This padding will act as a cushion for your plates. If you have extra packing paper, feel free to use it here for a thicker base. Alternatively, bubble wrap or even a thick towel will do the trick.

Step 3: Wrap Each Plate

To wrap a plate, take a clean sheet of packing paper (or newspaper), lay it in the center of the plate, and fold the paper over the plate diagonally. Be sure to cover every edge of the plate, tucking in the corners as you go. This ensures that each plate is fully protected.

Step 4: Arrange Plates Vertically

Once your plate is fully wrapped, place it in the box on its edge, not flat. This technique minimizes the risk of breakage. Stack your plates with the heavier ones at the bottom and lighter ones on top. Each plate should fit snugly without shifting.

Step 5: Add Extra Protection

For fragile or valuable plates, add an extra layer of bubble wrap over the packing paper for additional security. This extra step will give your plates even more protection.

Step 6: Add More Padding Between Layers

Once you’ve arranged a full row of plates, add crumpled newspaper or another layer of bubble wrap on top. This cushioning keeps the plates in place and provides more shock absorption. Continue this process until the box is full.

Step 7: Fill Empty Spaces

Any remaining gaps inside the box should be filled with crumpled newspaper or packing paper to keep everything snug and stable. This prevents any movement during transit.

Step 8: Seal the Box

Once your box is packed tightly, close it up and secure the flaps with wide, strong tape. Label the box clearly on all sides with the following: KITCHEN PLATES, FRAGILE, THIS SIDE UP, HANDLE WITH CARE. This helps movers know how to handle the box and which side should face up.

Step 9: Repeat the Process

Take another box and repeat the steps until all your plates and bowls are packed securely. It’s a bit of work, but it’s worth it to ensure everything arrives safely.

Step 10: Transport with Care

When it’s time to move, be extra careful when loading the dish boxes onto the moving truck. Handle them with care, keeping them upright and secure during the ride.

With these steps, you’ll know exactly how to pack plates for your move. If the thought of packing all your dishes still makes you nervous, consider hiring professional packers. They have the expertise to pack your breakables with the utmost care, ensuring your kitchenware arrives in perfect condition. Happy packing!