How to Pack a Kitchen Like a Professional Mover

The kitchen takes longer to pack than any other room—and causes the most breakage when done wrong. Professional movers use specific techniques that protect fragile items and maximize box efficiency.

Supplies You'll Need

Before starting, gather these materials:

- Medium boxes (dishes, glasses)

- Small boxes (heavy items, canned goods)

- Cell boxes with dividers (wine glasses, stemware)

- Packing paper (never use newspaper—ink transfers)

- Bubble wrap (fragile items only)

- Packing tape and marker

Dishes and Plates

The vertical method prevents most plate breakage.

Pack plates vertically like records, not stacked flat. Plates are stronger on edge and less likely to crack from pressure.

Step-by-step process:

- Cushion box bottom with crumpled packing paper

- Wrap each plate individually in packing paper

- Place plates vertically in box

- Fill gaps with crumpled paper

- Add paper cushion on top before closing

Professional tip: Use dish pack boxes with double-wall construction for fine china.

Glasses and Stemware

Cell boxes protect best. Invest in cell boxes with cardboard dividers. Each glass gets its own compartment.

Wrapping technique: Stuff packing paper inside the glass. Place glass on corner of packing paper sheet. Roll glass while tucking paper into opening. Secure with tape. Place upside down in cell.

Stemware special care: Wrap stems with extra paper. The stem is the weakest point and most likely to break.

Pots, Pans, and Cookware

Use nesting and proper protection techniques.

Nesting strategy: Stack pots inside each other with paper between each piece. This saves space and prevents scratches.

Lid management: Wrap lids separately or tape them securely to their pots. Loose lids shift during transport.

Cast iron care: Wrap cast iron pieces individually to prevent chipping and protect other items from weight damage.

Small Appliances

Protect your valuable kitchen electronics.

Original boxes best: If you saved original packaging, use it. Manufacturers designed these boxes for safe transport.

No original box: Wrap appliances in bubble wrap, secure cords with rubber bands, and pack in appropriately sized boxes.

Secure loose parts: Blender blades, mixer attachments, and food processor discs should be wrapped separately.

Pantry Items

Decide what to move versus toss.

What to move vs. toss: Move unopened items, spices, oils, vinegars. Toss opened perishables, expired items, partial bags.

Prevent leaks: Place liquids in sealed plastic bags before boxing. One leaking bottle ruins an entire box.

Spice organization: Keep spice containers together in a small box. Tape lids for extra security.

Box Labeling System

Mark every box with essential information:

- "Kitchen" in large letters

- Contents list (fragile items starred)

- "This Side Up" arrows

- "Fragile" on appropriate boxes

- Priority number (1 = unpack first)

Key Takeaways

- Pack plates vertically, not flat

- Use cell boxes for glasses and stemware

- Wrap each item individually in packing paper

- Keep boxes under 30 pounds

- Label everything clearly with contents and handling instructions

Need help packing? Green Moving offers professional packing services throughout Los Angeles and Orange County. Call (213) 829-4795 for your free quote.

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