How to Pack Dishes for Moving: Savannah’s Expert Guide from BC Brothers Moving

Pierce J.
November 17, 2025

Packing dishes for a move is one of the most important tasks to get right when relocating. Your dishes, plates, bowls, glasses, and mugs, are among the most fragile items you’ll transport. Packing them the wrong way can lead to chips, cracks, and unwelcome surprises when you open your boxes in your new Savannah home. As the trusted movers at BC Brothers Moving, we’ve seen what works (and what doesn’t) through years of servicing families and businesses across Savannah GA. Here’s how to pack dishes for moving so everything arrives safely and stress-free.

Why Proper Dish Packing Matters

Dishes are prone to damage because of their fragile material and irregular shapes. A professional packing approach prevents:

  • Broken plates and glasses

  • Cracked bowls and mugs

  • Expensive replacements

  • Messy box disasters during your move

BC Brothers Moving in Savannah uses time-tested packing methods to keep every client’s kitchenware protected. Learning these techniques means your most delicate items stay intact, move after move.

Gather the Right Packing Supplies

Start with the proper materials. Here’s what you need before you pack a single plate:

  • Sturdy small or medium boxes (dish packs are best but any strong box will do)

  • Packing paper (avoid printed newspaper to keep dishes clean)

  • Bubble wrap for extra fragile pieces

  • Packing tape for sealing boxes and bundles

  • Markers for labeling as "fragile" and "this side up"

These supplies provide both cushion and support. Having everything on hand before you start keeps your dish packing process smooth and efficient.

Packing Plates: Step-by-Step

  1. Prep the Box:
    Begin by reinforcing the bottom of the box with extra tape. Add a thick layer of crumpled packing paper or bubble wrap to line the base.

  2. Wrap Each Plate:
    Place each plate on a sheet of packing paper. Pull all corners of the paper over the plate, and secure tightly. Double-wrap using a second sheet for extra protection.

  3. Bundle and Stack Vertically:
    Group plates in bundles of four, then wrap the bundle again. Always stack plates vertically, not flat. This distributes pressure and minimizes breaking, just like records in a crate.

  4. Fill Gaps and Label:
    After all plates are in, stuff packing paper along box sides and on top to stop shifting. Clearly label your box as "fragile" and mark the top.

This meticulous process, practiced by BC Brothers Moving, ensures every Savannah client’s plates arrive unscathed.

Packing Bowls and Glasses

Bowls:

  • Wrap each bowl in packing paper.

  • Nest bowls (placing smaller ones inside larger) with paper between each.

  • Add a final wrapping bundle before placing in your padded box.

Glasses and Mugs:

  • Stuff glasses and mugs with crumpled paper before wrapping the outside.

  • Nest mugs (handle inward) and glasses of similar sizes, placing padding in-between.

  • Always pack upright and do not lay glassware flat.

For especially delicate glasses or stemware, consider double boxing: Place the packed box inside a slightly larger, padded one for maximum protection.

Mastering the Box: How to Fill and Seal

  • Heavier items such as plates and bowls go on the bottom.

  • Lighter glassware, cups, and mugs are layered on top.

  • All gaps should be filled with packing paper, bubble wrap, or kitchen towels. Boxes should be snug without squeezing.

  • Seal boxes tightly with packing tape across both seams for extra strength.

  • Always label clearly as "fragile" and note which side is up.

BC Brothers Moving in Savannah inspects kitchen boxes before they are loaded, making sure everything inside is secured and cushioned for the drive.

Special Tips for Extra Fragile or Valuable Dishes

  • For fine china or heirloom dishes, double wrap each one and use a dish pack box with dividers.

  • Label each box and alert your movers, special handling is required.

  • If moving yourself, transport precious dishes in your own car.

Local Savannah families count on BC Brothers Moving to treat fragile kitchenware with extra care, from packing to delivery.

Mistakes to Avoid When Packing Dishes

  • Don’t use large boxes; weight adds up quickly and boxes may collapse.

  • Never stack plates or bowls flat on top of one another without protection.

  • Avoid gaps that let dishes move around.

  • Don’t pack dishes with heavy or unrelated household items.

Following these tips from Savannah’s own BC Brothers Moving can save time, money, and heartbreak.

Why Trust BC Brothers Moving for Your Kitchen Packing

Savannah residents turn to BC Brothers Moving for reliable packing and moving, especially for fragile kitchens. We use high-quality materials, proven packing techniques, and a professional touch so your dishes arrive safe and sound. Our service includes:

  • Expert packing and unpacking for your valuables

  • Professional-grade boxes and materials

  • Full insurance for peace of mind

  • Honest, positive reviews from Savannah families

Contact BC Brothers Moving at (912) 658-5700 or email info@bcbrothersmoving.com for kitchen packing or full-service moves.

Local Savannah Insights: Packing Dishes for Coastal Moves

Humidity and jostling over long Savannah roads make proper dish packing even more essential. Our crews know to avoid large boxes, check for snug fits, and use extra padding when traveling through historic neighborhoods with rougher roads.

FAQs About How to Pack Dishes for Moving

How do I keep dishes from breaking during a move?
Wrap each dish individually in packing paper. Plates and bowls should be stacked vertically with padding on all sides and bottom. Fill gaps in the box to prevent shifting and mark boxes as "fragile" so your movers handle them with care. Let BC Brothers Moving do the packing for guaranteed safety.

Should I use bubble wrap or packing paper for dishes?
Packing paper is best for most kitchenware due to its flexibility and cushioning. Use bubble wrap for extra fragile or valuable pieces such as china, porcelain, and stemware. For ultimate protection, double-wrap with both packing paper and bubble wrap. BC Brothers Moving always uses what best fits your kitchenware.

How do I pack wine glasses or stemware to avoid damage?
Stuff the stems and bowls with crumpled packing paper, then wrap each glass fully. Place stemware upright in a divided box, add padding between each piece, and fill empty spaces with paper. For peace of mind, double-box stemware or let professionals like BC Brothers Moving handle your fragile glassware.

For safe, professional moves anywhere in Savannah or the southeast, choose BC Brothers Moving. Every dish, every box, protected by local care and expertise.

Call BC Brothers moving Savannah Georgia Today