Plates are one of the most fragile and commonly broken items during a move, but the good news is—they don’t have to be. With a little preparation and care, you can keep your dishware safe and intact from your old kitchen to your new one. Here’s a simple, effective guide on how to pack plates for moving.
Let the Pros Help If Needed
Sometimes, the smartest move is to call in professional help—especially when you’re dealing with a full kitchen and tight timelines. We Haul It Inc offers dependable moving services, including careful packing assistance. Their team understands how to properly wrap and transport fragile items like plates, ensuring nothing gets chipped or cracked in transit.
Choose the Right Supplies
Before you start packing, gather the essentials:
- Sturdy, medium-sized moving boxes
- Packing paper or newspaper
- Bubble wrap (optional but helpful for extra protection)
- Packing tape
- A marker for labeling
Avoid oversized boxes for dishes—they’re too heavy when full and more likely to collapse or cause injury during lifting.
Wrap Each Plate Individually
Start by placing a stack of packing paper on a flat surface. Put one plate in the center, fold the corners of the paper over it, and then wrap it completely. Repeat this for each plate. If you want to go the extra mile, add a layer of bubble wrap around each wrapped plate.
Use the Vertical Method
This is a trick many professionals use: pack your plates vertically, like records. They’re less likely to break this way than if you stack them flat. Place a cushioning layer of crumpled paper at the bottom of the box, then start loading the wrapped plates in side by side.
Fill Gaps and Cushion Well
Use crumpled packing paper or dish towels to fill any gaps between the plates and the sides of the box. Once you’ve filled the box, top it off with more cushioning material before sealing it up. The goal is to prevent movement during transport.
Label the Box Clearly
Use a marker to write “FRAGILE – PLATES” on all sides of the box and mark it as “This Side Up.” It might seem obvious, but in the chaos of moving day, these labels are a helpful reminder to handle with care.
Final Thought
Packing plates doesn’t have to be a stressful part of your move. With the right supplies, a bit of time, and some careful wrapping, your dishes will be ready to go wherever you’re headed next—safe, sound, and scratch-free.
