4 min read

How to pack glassware for a move

Protect your glassware with these helpful tips for your next move.
By · Updated November 7, 2024
How to pack glassware for a move

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When moving house, some items are more difficult to pack than others. Glassware is one of these things. Packing glassware is nerve-wracking, especially if you have nice glasses or tumblers that you don’t want to get chipped or arrive at their destination broken.

Glasses, tumblers, and cups are fragile, so this job needs more attention than other packing tasks. Make sure you have the right supplies, and take your time to pack your glasses properly. This will help avoid any breakage during your move.

Gather the Right Supplies:

Before you begin packing, gather all your supplies for the job. You'll need:

  • Strong boxes: Choose strong corrugated boxes in various sizes to accommodate different types of glassware.
  • Packing paper: Use unprinted packing paper to wrap each piece individually.
  • Bubble wrap: Provide extra cushioning with bubble wrap to shield fragile glassware from impacts.
  • Dividers and inserts: Invest in cardboard dividers or cell kits to separate glasses and prevent collisions.
  • Packing tape: Opt for high-quality packing tape to secure boxes and ensure they remain intact.

Want more moving tips?

How to pack glass so it doesn’t break

Prepare the Boxes:

Before you start, make sure your boxes are clean, dry, and in good condition. Try to avoid using old or damaged boxes for your glasses as these may break more easily, especially when packed with more weight. Reinforce the bottom with an extra layer of tape to provide additional support. Place crumpled packing paper at the bottom of each box to create a protective layer. It's also a good idea to use smaller-sized boxes so you're not transporting all your glassware in one container.

Wrap each piece individually:

Start by carefully wrapping each glass separately. Lay a piece of packing paper flat and place the glass in one corner. Roll the glass tightly, tucking the sides of the paper into the middle of the glass as you go. Use additional layers of paper for more delicate items. Secure the wrapping with tape, making sure no piece of the glass is exposed.

Use cardboard dividers:

For stemmed glassware, insert each glass into a cardboard divider or a cell in a cell kit. These dividers prevent glasses from bumping into each other and reduce the risk of breakage. If dividers aren't available, you can use rolled-up packing paper to separate glasses within the box.

Add extra padding:

After placing the wrapped glasses inside the box, fill any remaining gaps with crumpled packing paper or bubble wrap. This extra padding prevents movement during transit and minimises the chance of breakage. Make sure the glasses are snugly packed, but avoid overcrowding the box.

Seal and label your boxes:

Once all the glassware is securely packed, close the box and seal it with wide packing tape. Label the box clearly as "Fragile" or "Glassware" on all sides, indicating which end should remain upright. This will help ensure you or your professional movers take extra care when handling these boxes.

Transporting and storing glassware:

Handle each box gently, taking care to set them down carefully. Make sure you load them upright in the vehicle, securing them in place to prevent shifting. During storage, keep the glassware boxes in a cool, dry area away from extreme temperatures or humidity.

Unpacking and inspecting:

When unpacking, carefully remove each glass from its wrapping. Inspect them for any damage or signs of breakage. If any glasses are broken, throw them into your wheelie bin and handle the broken glass with care. Don't put the broken glass into your recycling as it is dangerous for the recycling collectors to handle. 

Extra tips for packing and moving your glasses safely

Avoid overpacking each box

While it may be tempting to maximise space and pack as many items as possible into a single box, don't make the boxes too heavy. Overpacked boxes can split and are harder to handle.

Excessively heavy boxes can cause strain and injury to you or the movers. Distributing the weight evenly among the boxes is recommended, keeping them manageable and safe for lifting.

Consider weight distribution in your moving van

When loading the moving van, distribute the boxes' weight strategically. Heavier boxes should be placed on the bottom to create a stable foundation. This helps maintain balance and prevents the boxes from shifting during transit.

Lighter boxes, such as those containing glassware, should be placed on top of the heavier ones. This weight distribution ensures that heavier items do not crush fragile items and reduces the risk of damage.

Store glassware boxes upright and securely

Glassware boxes require special attention during transport to prevent breakage. Keeping these boxes upright is important as you don't want them to tilt or fall during your move. Ensure your glassware boxes are placed somewhere they won't move during transit. Keep them away from heavy furniture or appliances that could potentially shift and cause damage.

Need help with your move?

Wise Move can help you find a professional mover for your move. Get help packing and transporting your precious belongings and make sure everything arrives in one piece. Book your professional moving service now. 

Movers services at low-cost

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