Dishes, glassware and other breakable items complicate any move, be it a small one or very large. Fortunately packing dishes doesn’t have to be too complicated. With the right materials, a little experience and good boxes, you can make sure that all the breakable items in your possession make it safe and sound to the new location.
At Empire Movers, we have extensive experience moving such items. And we want to share this experience with you. That’s why we’ve put together this list of tips that you will definitely find very useful when looking to transport dishes and glassware.
1. Don’t forget to add the fragile label
You can’t expect movers to know what’s inside each box. So, if you don’t want them to mishandle breakable items, add a fragile label to each box. And don’t forget to place the label somewhere where it can be easily seen.
2. Add newspapers for extra protection
We recommend that you keep at least two inches between the edges of the box and the contents, on all sides. Fill that space with crumpled newspapers or packing papers.
3. Wrap breakable items individually
Most breakable items break when hitting each other inside the boxes. That’s why it’s so important that you wrap each item individually. There are many ways to use paper or other materials to wrap glasses, dishes, vases and more. You can check them out on Youtube. It doesn’t matter which technique you pick, as long as the items are wrapped properly.
4. Place plates on their sides, vertically
Avoid stacking plates one on top of the other. Instead, place them on their sides, vertically, like you would records. This way, if a box is dropped, the weight of the plates at the top won’t crush the plates located at the bottom. And remember to stuff some paper in there, for the extra protection.
5. Vases, glasses and lamps also go vertically.
Place larger items upright inside the boxes. It’s the best way to make sure they are kept as safe as possible. Unlike dishes, these items can break if placed on the side.
6. The heaviest items go at the bottom of the box
It probably goes without saying. But it’s still better to mention it. Heavier items can crush lighter ones, so remember to place them at the bottom of the box.
7. Fill empty space inside the boxes with packing material
Once a box is completely packed, you should fill it with packing material, to make sure there’s no extra space left for your breakable items to move and break. But make sure that you don’t overpack the box. You don’t want to make it too heavy.
