How to Pack Glasses and Dishes for Moving

Packing glasses and dishes for moving is one of the biggest challenges homeowners face. The fear of hearing that dreaded clink or finding broken plates at your new home is all too real. But with the right preparation and materials — and a little help from BookAMover’s expert movers — you can make the process smooth, safe, and stress-free.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know about packing fragile kitchenware like plates, mugs, wine glasses, and more — from materials and techniques to pro-level tips that protect your belongings during transport.

Gather Your Packing Supplies 🧰

Before you begin, make sure you have all your materials ready. The right tools make a huge difference:

• Medium-sized boxes – Easier to carry and less likely to collapse under weight.

• Packing paper or acid-free tissue paper – Great for wrapping and cushioning dishes.

• Bubble wrap – Ideal for delicate glassware and stemmed glasses.

• Towels or tea towels – Perfect eco-friendly alternatives for padding.

• Packing tape – Strong tape ensures your boxes stay sealed.

• Markers and “Fragile” labels – Helps movers know to handle boxes with care.

💡 Pro tip: Liquor store boxes with dividers are perfect for glasses and bottles — they’re sturdy and already compartmentalized.

👉 Don’t leave fragile items to chance — get up to 4 free quotes from trusted movers today with BookAMover!

How to Pack Dishes Safely 🍽️

Step 1: Prepare the Box

Reinforce the bottom with double layers of packing tape. Add a cushion base of crumpled paper or towels to absorb shocks.

Step 2: Wrap Each Plate

Lay your paper flat, place the plate in the center, and fold in each corner until fully covered. Secure with tape if needed.

For ceramic or China dishes, wrap individually with bubble wrap for extra protection.

Step 3: Stack Vertically

Always place plates on their sides, not flat. This position absorbs vibration and prevents cracking under pressure.

Step 4: Fill Gaps

Use crumpled paper or small cloths to fill any empty space — your goal is a snug, immovable fit.

Step 5: Seal and Label

Tape the top, label “FRAGILE – KITCHEN,” and mark which side is up.

💡 Avoid reusing worn-out boxes — weak bottoms cause most dish breakages during transport.

How to Pack Glasses and Stemware 🥂

Step 1: Sort by Type

Separate wine glasses, tumblers, mugs, and champagne flutes. Pack the heavier ones first.

Step 2: Wrap Individually

Start by protecting the stem first — wrap it with paper or a strip of bubble wrap, then roll the glass diagonally in another sheet. Tuck the ends inside the bowl for stability.

Step 3: Use Dividers

If available, use cardboard cell dividers. Each glass should have its own compartment.

Step 4: Layer Carefully

Heavier glasses at the bottom, lighter ones (like flutes) at the top. Add a layer of soft material between each level.

Step 5: Fill Gaps and Test

Gently shake the box — if you hear clinking, add more filler material.

💡 Bonus tip: Nest smaller glasses inside larger ones only if both are well-wrapped and padded.

How to Pack Mugs and Cups ☕

Mugs and cups may seem sturdy, but their handles make them one of the most fragile items to pack when moving. One wrong bump can cause cracks or chips — especially with porcelain or ceramic mugs. Follow these professional packing tips to keep them safe during transport:

🧻 Step 1: Prepare the Inside

Before wrapping, fill the inside of each mug or cup with scrunched-up packing paper, tissue, or even clean socks.
This step helps maintain the mug’s shape and prevents the sides from collapsing under pressure when stacked or moved.
If you’re packing fine China or delicate teacups, use soft paper or bubble wrap instead of newspaper to avoid ink transfer or scratches.

📦 Step 2: Wrap Individually

Each mug should be wrapped separately to avoid any contact during the move.
Lay a sheet of packing paper flat, place the mug diagonally at one corner, and roll it toward the opposite corner.
Tuck the excess paper inside the mug and around the handle as you go — this adds extra cushioning to the most vulnerable part.
For high-value mugs or collectible cups, add a layer of bubble wrap around the handle before wrapping the rest of the mug.

💡 Pro tip: Avoid over-taping each item — tape the paper loosely to make unpacking easier later.

🧱 Step 3: Pack Upright in the Box

Once wrapped, place mugs upright (as if sitting on a table) in a medium-sized moving box.
Avoid laying them on their sides — upright positioning distributes weight evenly and prevents handles from snapping.
Start with heavier mugs at the bottom and lighter ones on top.
If you have cup-and-saucer sets, keep them together by wrapping the saucer first and then placing it underneath or beside its matching cup.

🧩 Step 4: Fill Gaps Between Handles

Empty space is your enemy when packing fragile kitchenware.
Use crumpled paper, small towels, or foam peanuts to fill every gap between handles and around the box edges.
This prevents movement inside the box — a major cause of chips and cracks during transit.

🏷️ Step 5: Cushion and Label

Before sealing, add a final soft layer of paper or bubble wrap on top for shock absorption.
Close the box securely with tape, then label it “Fragile – Mugs & Cups – Kitchen.”
If using professional movers through BookAMover, clear labeling helps them know which boxes need gentle handling.

💡 Extra tip: Keep one or two mugs aside in your essentials box so you can enjoy a hot drink on moving day — you’ll thank yourself later!

How to Pack Wine Glasses 🍷

Wine glasses are some of the most delicate items in any kitchen, thanks to their thin stems and fragile bowls. Without proper packing, even a small bump can lead to cracks or shattered glass. Follow these expert-approved steps to keep your stemware safe from start to finish.

🧴 Step 1: Wrap the Stem First

The stem is the weakest part of the glass, so start by protecting it.
Cut a strip of bubble wrap or soft foam and wrap it tightly around the stem, securing it with a small piece of tape. This reinforcement prevents bending or snapping during transport.
For crystal or antique glasses, consider double wrapping the stem or using tissue first to avoid surface scratches.

📦 Step 2: Wrap the Bowl and Base

Next, place the glass diagonally on a sheet of packing paper or bubble wrap.
Gently roll it toward the opposite corner, tucking the ends inside the bowl for full coverage.
This protects both the rim and base, which are also highly prone to impact damage.

If you’re short on bubble wrap, you can wrap the bowl with two layers of thick packing paper and add an outer layer of soft cloth for extra padding.

📦 Step 3: Use Small Boxes to Avoid Excess Weight

Always choose small or divided boxes when packing wine glasses.
Large boxes get too heavy, and the added weight increases the risk of cracks.
If available, use a cell divider box (like those from wine shops) to keep each glass separate and stable.

Line the bottom of the box with crumpled paper or towels to create a cushion base. This prevents shock from bumps or drops during handling.

🧱 Step 4: Pack Upright, Never Sideways

Always pack wine glasses upright, just as they would stand on a table.
Laying them sideways places pressure on the stem and rim — both weak points.
Start with the heaviest glasses first and place lighter, thinner ones on top if stacking multiple layers.
Between each layer, add a thick cushion of paper, towels, or foam sheets to absorb movement.

🧩 Step 5: Fill Gaps and Cushion the Top

Once all glasses are inside, fill every small gap between them with crumpled paper, dishcloths, or bubble wrap.
A tightly packed box prevents shifting — the number one cause of glass breakage.

🏷️ Step 6: Seal and Label Clearly

Seal the box securely with strong packing tape — both along the seam and across the top for reinforcement.
Label it clearly with:
“FRAGILE – WINE GLASSES – KITCHEN”
and mark “This Way Up” arrows on each side.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid ❌

Even with the best intentions, a few simple mistakes can lead to broken glassware, cracked plates, or damaged boxes. Here are the most common packing errors our removal experts see — and how to avoid them.

1. Overpacking Boxes

Trying to fit “just one more plate” can do more harm than good.
When boxes are overloaded, they become too heavy to lift safely and can burst open under pressure.
Stick to medium-sized boxes for dishes and glasses — they’re easier to carry and distribute weight more evenly.

💡 Pro tip: Each packed box should weigh no more than 20kg to stay manageable for you and your movers.

2. Leaving Empty Spaces Inside

Empty space allows items to shift around during transport — the leading cause of chips and cracks.
Always fill gaps between items and around the box edges with crumpled packing paper, towels, or bubble wrap.
A snug fit keeps everything still and protected, even if the box is jostled during the move.

3. Mixing Heavy Pots with Delicate Glassware

Never combine heavy kitchenware (like pots or pans) with fragile items such as crystal glasses or fine china.
Weight differences cause pressure and can easily crush lighter objects underneath.
Instead, pack heavy cookware separately and mark those boxes clearly so they stay on the bottom of the moving van.

4. Forgetting to Label Boxes “FRAGILE”

Labeling might seem obvious, but it’s often overlooked during a busy move.
Without a “FRAGILE” label, movers might stack or carry boxes roughly.
Use bold markers or bright stickers to label:
“FRAGILE – KITCHEN – HANDLE WITH CARE.”
Also, mark arrows showing which side should face up to prevent glasses from being packed upside down.

5. Using Weak or Damp Cardboard

Reusing old boxes can save money, but worn-out or damp cardboard is risky.
Weak boxes are more likely to collapse, tear, or absorb moisture, damaging your valuables inside.
Always inspect boxes before use — if they’re soft, bent, or have a musty smell, replace them with new, sturdy ones designed for removals.

💡 Sustainable tip: If you want to be eco-friendly, reuse boxes that are dry, strong, and clean, or choose recyclable packing materials.

When to Hire Professional Packers?

If your glassware collection includes antiques, crystal, or sentimental pieces, hiring professional movers can save you stress and money in the long run.
BookAMover connects you with trusted and insured packers and movers across the UK who can handle fragile items with precision and care — including full packing, loading, and storage solutions.

Eco-Friendly and Budget Tips 🌱

Moving sustainably saves both money and the planet. With a few clever tricks, you can protect your items while reducing waste:

♻️ Reuse What You Have

Keep bubble wrap, boxes, and packing paper from deliveries — most can be reused several times if clean and dry.

🏪 Get Free Boxes Locally

Ask supermarkets, bookshops, or corner stores for sturdy spare boxes. They’re strong, eco-friendly, and cost nothing.

🧣 Pack with Fabric

Use old clothes, towels, or bedding instead of packing paper. They add soft padding and save on materials.

🌍 Choose Recyclable Options

When buying supplies, go for recyclable tape, cardboard, and biodegradable fillers. They’re durable and planet-friendly.

Even small efforts — like reusing, recycling, and repurposing — make your move greener, cheaper, and smarter.

FAQs About Packing Glasses and Dishes

1. What’s the best box size for packing dishes?
Medium boxes (about 18×18 inches) are ideal — big enough for plates but light enough to lift safely.

2. How do I prevent glasses from clinking inside the box?
Fill all gaps with crumpled paper or towels so nothing moves during transport.

3. Should I pack plates flat or upright?
Always upright — it reduces pressure and risk of cracking.

4. Can I use clothes instead of bubble wrap?
Yes! T-shirts and towels make great eco-friendly padding.

5. How do I pack my dishes for long-term storage?
Use moisture-resistant wrapping, label boxes by date, and avoid direct floor contact.

6. When should I hire professional movers?
If you’re short on time, moving long-distance, or have valuable glassware, hiring pros ensures everything stays safe.

7. What’s the best way to label fragile boxes?
Use bright “FRAGILE” stickers and write the destination room (e.g., “Kitchen – Plates & Glasses”).

8. Should I reuse old boxes?
Only if they’re strong, dry, and free of damage — weak boxes often fail under pressure.

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• 🚛 Experts in fragile and large-item moving

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