Learn professional strategies for packing delicate glassware and china to prevent cracks, chips, or shattering during your upcoming move.
Your finest glassware and china likely hold sentimental value and represent significant investments.
Protecting them requires strategic packing using quality materials from budget moving boxes suppliers. Follow these pro tips to keep your most fragile possessions damage-free.
Audit What You’re Packing
Carefully evaluate all glassware and dishware to identify any existing flaws or repairs needed:
- Inspect for hairline cracks, chips, weak handles or spouts, loose glazing, etc.
- Separate any damaged items for extra protection during packing.
- Verify lids and tops fit properly and seal securely.
- Ensure valuable antique and fragile pieces get premium packing treatment.
Protect with Bubble Wrap
Bubble wrap cushions glassware and absorbs vibrations during transport. Follow best practices when wrapping:
- Use small bubble wrap for delicate stemware or intricate pieces.
- Wrap each piece individually to prevent contact and clanging together.
- Wrap dishware in 3-5 layers, sealing with tape.
- Pad rims, handles, and ornamental details that protrude.
- Wrap bowls face down so rims don’t get crushed from above.
Invest in Quality Boxes
New sturdy boxes specially designed for glassware provide optimal protection:
- Multi-sectioned boxes isolate wrapped pieces.
- Boxes with dividers prevent sliding and rubbing together.
- Purchase an assortment of box sizes to maximize packing efficiency.
- Avoid overstuffing boxes, but eliminate empty space for contents to shift.
Strategically Pack Boxes
Careful arrangement inside boxes further reduces movement and risk of damage:
- Place the heaviest dishware on bottom, lighter pieces on top.
- Nestle bowls inside each other with rims alternating direction.
- Fill gaps tightly with packing paper or bubble wrap sheets.
- If stacking plates, layer rims face-to-face and backs-to-backs.
Use Moisture-Absorbent Packing Materials
Preventing condensation inside boxes helps keep glassware intact:
- Line boxes with dry packing paper to soak up humidity.
- Use silica gel packs to maintain optimal moisture levels.
- Avoid newspaper, as ink can transfer to glassware.
- Mark boxes containing silica packs so they aren’t discarded.
Load Boxes With Care
Prevent damage during loading and transport:
- Clearly label fragile boxes containing glassware and china.
- Hand carry boxes with glassware, never toss or drop them.
- Load glassware boxes last near the cab, not under heavy furniture.
- Avoid stacking glassware boxes or placing heavy items on top.
- Use mattress pads on box edges or between stacked boxes for cushioning.
- Transport boxes vertically, never place them flat or upside down.
Unpack Methodically
When unpacking, take precautions until everything finds its new home:
- Unpack boxes over soft surfaces like carpets or furniture in case of dropping.
- Check wrap for damage before unwrapping. Re-wrap if necessary.
- Save all packing materials until everything is unpacked and verified intact.
With proper materials from budget moving boxes and these packing best practices, you can breathe easy knowing your glassware and china will arrive safely. Share this guide with your moving company or use it when packing these irreplaceable items yourself.
