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How to Pack Glass for Moving & Protect Fragile Glassware | Key Storage

How to Pack Glass for Moving & Protect Fragile Glassware

Moving can be exciting but comes with its fair share of challenges. One of the trickiest parts includes figuring out how to pack glass for moving without ending up with a box full of shards. Protecting your delicate glassware is crucial whether you're relocating across town or moving states. From your everyday drinking glasses to those cherished wine glasses you've collected over the years, each piece deserves special attention. 

In this article, we'll walk you through our favorite moving and packing tips to help you pack your glassware safely. From the supplies you need to clever techniques you can use to maintain your glasses intact during transit, keep reading to learn how to pack glass for moving. 

How to Pack Glassware for Moving
How to Pack Glassware Without Paper
Tips for Packing Glass for Your Move
Pack Glassware Like a Pro

How to pack glass for moving

How to Pack Glassware for Moving 

When it comes to moving, one of the most delicate tasks is figuring out how to pack glassware. Even something as simple as moving your glassware from the kitchen to garage storage can be difficult. These fragile items require special care to arrive at your new home in one piece. Whether you're dealing with everyday drinking glasses, delicate wine glasses, or cherished heirloom pieces, you'll want to take time to make sure they're safe during the packing process. 

Let's walk through the steps to properly pack your glassware, ensuring that you'll be toasting to a successful move rather than sweeping up shards when you unpack in your new home.

1. Gather your packing supplies 

Before you begin wrapping your first glass, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials on hand. 

You'll need: 

  • Sturdy boxes 
  • Packing paper or bubble wrap
  • Packing tape
  • Markers for labeling
  • Foam pouches or dish dividers (optional but helpful)

Having these items ready will make the packing process smoother and more efficient.

2. Prepare your storage container 

Reinforce the bottom of your box with extra tape. This added strength will help prevent any unfortunate accidents. 

Next, add a layer of padding to the bottom of the box. Packing paper, linens, newspaper, or a layer of bubble wrap works well. The cushion will absorb shocks and vibrations during the move. 

3. Individually wrap glass items 
 

Now comes the most important part: wrapping each item individually. Let's break this down by type: 

Glasses: Start with your heaviest glasses, like mugs or tumblers. Place a glass diagonally on a sheet of packing paper, roll it up, and tuck in the excess paper at the top and bottom. If you're wondering how to pack wine glasses for moving, the process is similar. For these special glasses, pay special attention to the stems, wrapping them first before moving onto the bowl. Use the same technique for lighter glasses like champagne flutes or cocktail glasses, but consider adding an extra layer of protection.
Plates: Stack similarly sized plates together with a layer of packing paper between each one. Then, wrap the stack as a unit. For extra protection, consider wrapping each plate individually before stacking. 
Bowls: Nest bowls of similar sizes together with packing paper between each one. Wrap the stack as a unit, making sure to cushion the edges well. 

Of course, you might need to pack other glass items, such as tables, mirrors, or decorative pieces. When considering how to pack a glass table for moving, start by removing the glass top from the base. Wrap the edges with foam or bubble wrap, then sandwich the glass between two pieces of sturdy cardboard. 

Secure this "sandwich" with packing tape and wrap the entire piece in moving blankets. For smaller decorative items like vases or glass sculptures, wrap them individually in bubble wrap, securing the wrap with tape. Then, place these items in a box filled with packing peanuts or crumbled packing paper to prevent items from shifting in transit. Remember, to safely move any glass item, you must eliminate empty spaces in the box and provide ample cushioning.

4. Layer carefully 

If you're wondering how to pack dishes and glasses for moving, it's important to understand layering. Start with a layer of your heaviest items at the bottom of the box. This usually means plates, followed by bowls. Then, add your glasses, starting with the heaviest and working your way up to the most delicate. 

Remember to add a layer of cushioning material between each layer of items. This extra padding will help keep your glassware from breaking when moving. 

5. Seal securely 

Once your box is full, add a final layer of cushioning on top. Then, close the box and seal it with packing tape. Make sure to label the box as "FRAGILE" and indicate which side should be up.

Woman labeling her moving box as fragile

How to Pack Glassware Without Paper

While packing paper is a popular choice, there are several eco-friendly and cost-effective alternatives for those who want to know how to pack glasses for moving without paper:

Towels and linens: Wrap glasses in dish towels, hand towels, or even T-shirts. This method serves a dual purpose: packing your linens at the same time.
Socks: Clean socks can be excellent for protecting stemware, especially wine glasses. Slip the glass into the sock for a snug fit.
Inflatable packing materials: These are the materials a company might use in the box to protect a product you've ordered online during the shipping process. You can recycle them when moving as they provide excellent cushioning without the bulk and can be deflated for easy disposal.

Tips for Packing Glass for Your Move

Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when learning how to pack dishes and glasses for moving:

Don't overpack: A too-heavy box is more likely to be dropped. Aim for boxes that you can lift comfortably.
Use dividers: Cardboard dividers can keep glasses from bumping into each other during transit.
Pack vertically: This reduces pressure on delicate areas of glasses and stemware.
Fill empty spaces: Use packing peanuts or crumpled paper to fill empty spaces in the box.
Label clearly: Mark boxes as "FRAGILE" and "THIS SIDE UP" to ensure proper handling.
Consider professional packing: Professional packing services might be worth the investment for extremely valuable or antique glassware, especially if you’re moving states.

Pack Glassware Like a Pro

Knowing how to pack glass for moving is crucial for a successful relocation. Following these guidelines ensures your cherished glassware arrives safely at your new home. Whether you're packing everyday tumblers or delicate wine glasses, remember that proper cushioning and careful handling are essential. 

As you prepare for your move, consider how Key Storage can help. Our climate-controlled storage units offer an ideal environment for storing packed glassware, protecting it from temperature fluctuations and humidity that could cause damage. Whether you're moving or need a long-term solution for excess items, deployment storage, or anything else, Key Storage provides secure options to keep your carefully packed glassware safe until you're ready to unpack. Browse available storage units near you.

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