How to Wrap Plates for Moving

Posted on 02/12/2024

Moving can be an overwhelming task, especially when it comes to fragile items like plates. Properly wrapping and packing your plates ensures they remain intact throughout the journey. This comprehensive guide will help you understand how to wrap plates for moving efficiently and safely.

Materials You'll Need

• Bubble wrap

• Wrapping paper or newspaper

• Scotch tape

• Cardboard boxes

• Old towels or packing peanuts

• Permanent marker

Preparation Steps

Before you start wrapping plates, it's important to gather all the necessary materials. Make sure the cardboard boxes you're using are sturdy and suitable for your plates. Labeling them as 'Fragile' will also help movers handle them with extra care.

Step-by-Step Guide to Wrapping Plates

Step 1: Clean Your Plates

Ensure all plates are clean and dry before packing. Dirt and moisture can cause damage to both the plates and the packing materials.

Step 2: Organize Your Workspace

Lay out all your materials on a flat, stable surface. This will make the process of wrapping plates more efficient and organized.

Step 3: Wrap Individual Plates

• Place a sheet of bubble wrap or wrapping paper on your workspace.

• Position the plate in the center of the sheet.

• Fold the sides of the sheet over the plate, ensuring the edges are completely covered.

• Secure the wrapping with tape.

Step 4: Add Extra Protection

For extra protection, you can double wrap the plates with another layer of bubble wrap or paper. This is particularly helpful for more valuable or delicate plates.

Step 5: Pack Plates Vertically

Line the bottom of your cardboard box with old towels or packing peanuts. Place your wrapped plates vertically rather than stacking them. This reduces the risk of them breaking if the box is jostled during the move.

Extra Tips for Safe Plate Packing

• Fill any gaps in the box with packing peanuts or crumpled newspaper to prevent shifting.

• Avoid overloading the boxes, as this can make them too heavy to carry safely.

• Clearly label each box with its contents and mark it as 'Fragile'.

• For expensive or irreplaceable plates, consider using specialized dish pack boxes.

Pros and Cons of Different Packing Materials

Bubble Wrap

Pros: Provides excellent cushioning, easy to use, reusable.

Cons: Can be expensive, not environmentally friendly.

Newspaper

Pros: Cheap or free, readily available, recyclable.

Cons: Ink can transfer onto plates, may not provide as much protection as bubble wrap.

Specialized Dish Pack Boxes

Pros: Designed specifically for plates, provides excellent protection, easy to pack.

Cons: Expensive, may not be available everywhere.

Takeaways

• Properly wrapping plates for moving is crucial to prevent breakage.

• Use quality packing materials like bubble wrap, newspaper, or specialized boxes.

• Always pack plates vertically and fill gaps to prevent movement.

• Label boxes clearly to ensure careful handling during the move.

Conclusion

Packing plates for moving may seem daunting, but with the right materials and careful attention, you can ensure they arrive safely at your new home. By following the steps outlined in this guide and using the tips provided, you can minimize the risk of breakage and make your moving experience smoother and less stressful.