How to Pack Glassware for Moving
When it comes to moving, some items demand extra care—and glassware is top of that list. From wine glasses and tumblers to heirloom crystal, these fragile pieces are prone to chips, cracks, or worse if not packed correctly. Whether you’re moving across town or across the country, taking time to pack glassware properly can mean the difference between opening a box of intact treasures or a pile of sharp shards. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to pack glassware for moving safely and efficiently.
1. Gather Your Packing Supplies
Before you start, make sure you have everything you need. The right materials will protect your items and make packing easier:
- Sturdy moving boxes (double-walled for extra strength)
- Packing paper or unprinted newsprint (avoid printed newspapers—they can leave ink stains)
- Bubble wrap for extra-fragile pieces
- Packing tape to secure the boxes
- Glass divider kits – these create individual compartments inside the box, keeping items from knocking together. (We sell high-quality glass dividers designed to fit standard moving boxes perfectly—making your packing job faster and safer.)
- Marker pens and fragile tape for clear labelling
2. Prep Your Boxes
Use medium sized boxes so that you don`t overload with heavy glassware and reinforce the base of each box using the `SSS` method. Fold the flaps in and Seal with packing tape, then Strengthen the box with more tape along the openings, finally Secure the box by taping all the way around the bottom of the. Add a cushion of scrunched packing paper or bubble wrap at the bottom of the box for shock absorption during transit.
If you’re using a glass divider kit, assemble it inside the box first. These work particularly well for stemmed glasses.
3.Wrap Each Item Individually
This is the most important step. Lay a sheet of packing paper on a flat surface, place the glass in one corner, and roll it diagonally, tucking in the edges as you go – we call this the Fish and Chip method.
For stemmed glasses, wrap the stem separately before wrapping the whole glass.
For very delicate or valuable pieces, double-wrap them: first in paper, then in bubble wrap.
4. Pack From Heavy to Light
When placing items in the box, put the heaviest, sturdiest glassware at the bottom and the lightest, most delicate pieces on top. If you’re using a divider kit, follow the compartments from bottom layer to top. Fill any gaps with crumpled packing paper to prevent movement.
5. Fill and Cushion
Once all glasses are packed, fill every remaining gap—top, sides, and between items—with packing paper. A snug fit stops items from shifting during the move. Add another layer of cushioning on top before sealing the box.
6. Seal and Label
Close the box and tape it securely. Use a marker to clearly label it: “FRAGILE – GLASSWARE – THIS SIDE UP.” This alerts anyone handling the box to take extra care and keep it in the correct orientation. We also sell FRAGILE TAPE in our packing shop.
7. Moving Day Tips
- Always transport fragile boxes upright.
- Avoid stacking heavy boxes on top of them.
- If possible, carry boxes of glassware in your own vehicle to maintain control over handling.
Why Glass Divider Kits Make Life Easier
While you can wrap glasses without dividers, they add a significant layer of protection and organisation. Our dividers keep each glass in its own secure compartment, reducing the risk of pieces knocking together and breaking. They also speed up the packing process—no more worrying about how to fit glasses snugly in a box.
Glass dividers are available from our shop.
Final Takeaway: Learning how to pack glassware for moving is all about preparation, patience, and the right supplies. With quality boxes, plenty of packing paper, and a glass divider kit or two, you can ensure your fragile items arrive at your new home in perfect condition.
