How to Pack Glassware on Moving Day

After moving into their first home, professional organizer Tonia Tomlin found her husband had accidentally crushed all of their drinking glasses. You may understand the situation well, as it’s a common packing problem.

Nowadays, she shows about 400 clients how to pack glassware every year to prevent broken glass and the similar shattered feelings she had after her move years ago.

“I think the biggest problem people run into when packing glasses is they don’t spend the time to prepare in advance,” said Tomlin of Sorted Out.

If you want some expert advice before moving day, keep reading for some more tips from Tomlin and another professional organizer who also helps lots of clients prepare for packing.

And don’t forget to check out our helpful video with visuals on how to pack glassware!

How to Pack Glassware: Pad Small Moving Boxes

Before packing up your glasses, choose smaller moving boxes to pack them in and line the box with some extra padding, like bubble wrap or packing paper. This will provide an added layer of protection during a move.

“You can also use extra linens from the kitchen to pad the edges or create layers in between glasses,” said Tomlin. “It really works well.”

Pieces of cardboard can also be used to add layers between glassware to avoid clinks and cracks!

It’s also important to put extra padding on the top of the box before you tape it up, in case something is stacked on top it, said Jessica Bair, a professional organizer and owner of MAS Movement.

“Make sure to pack heavier glass items at the bottom of your boxes and lighter ones on top, so nothing gets crushed,” she said.

Wrap Glassware with Multiple Layers of Padding

Both of our experts recommend wrapping glassware in moving paper and/or bubble wrap. Both are inexpensive and dependable moving materials.

“Take packing paper and wrap it around a glass, then wrap it again in bubble wrap before using tape to secure it,” said Tomlin. “Make sure to turn the bubble wrap so the bubbles are facing the glass for the best results.”

Packing paper is recyclable, while bubble and foam wrap is not, so it’s Bair’s preferred packing material. It’s also more affordable than the others.

“If you do have delicate china, dish packing kits can potentially be the most secure option,” said Bair. “But it’s also the most expensive option.”

Label Your Boxes “Fragile” and Avoid Stacking Them

Whether you’re hiring professionals or doing a DIY move, make sure to boldly label glassware to avoid careless lifting.

“Label the outside of the box with exactly how much is in there and how many pieces,” said Tomlin. “You want to account for all items, especially if you’re working with a moving company.”

She uses bright-color labels, so movers can easily see them during and after a move.

“I mark them ‘fragile’ with a red sticker, and I write on the box: ‘Don’t stack,'” she added.

Stacking boxes with glassware may result in broken dishes, even with an extra padding inside. So try to keep your fragile boxes separate from other kitchen and home furnishings.

Need some more tips before moving day? Check out our blog article about how to pick the perfect-size moving box for all your stuff!