Pack dinner plates on edge
- Line the carton. Put a thick layer of crushed paper on the bottom and tape the seams twice.
- Make a bundle. Place a sheet of paper between each plate, then wrap a small stack of plates together in more paper.
- Seal the bundle. Fold the ends and tape the paper so the bundle does not open.
- Stand the bundle on edge. Place it upright in the carton with the plates facing sideways, like books on a shelf.
- Fill and pad. Pack crushed paper between bundles and on every side. Add a flat layer on top.
- Label. Close the lid, tape it, and write PLATES, FRAGILE, THIS SIDE UP and the room.
A flat stack of plates puts the full weight of the stack on the plate at the bottom. Standing the plates on edge spreads the load along their strongest direction. That single change is the difference between a box that survives a move and one that does not.
Why edge beats flat
A plate is a shallow dish whose curve resists pressure along its rim and its face. A load that presses on the rim from the side is spread around the curve. A load that presses on the face from above has nowhere to go and the plate cracks. A box that holds plates on edge, held in place by padding, takes the same bump on the road far better.
Set sizes and shapes
- Dinner plates: the largest bundle, on the bottom of the carton.
- Salad and dessert plates: smaller bundles, tucked in beside the larger ones.
- Platters: wrapped alone in two sheets and set on edge at the side of the carton.
- Saucers: bundle with paper and stand on edge, like plates.
- Chargers and decorative plates: wrap like a picture and pack on edge with padding on both faces.
Fine china and heirlooms
A set that has been in the family is worth extra care. Wrap each piece, use a smaller carton, and keep the box with you or label it for a priority place on the truck. Tell the estimator which items are irreplaceable so the crew can pad and place them carefully. For antiques and collections, fine art and antiques explains the options, including custom crating.
Check before you tape
Set the closed box on a table and press gently on the top. If it gives, there is a gap, and a gap becomes a crack. Open the box and add paper until the top is firm. The other kitchen items are covered in how to pack dishes and how to pack glasses.