The best way to pack up glasses safely before moving home

Packing glasses safely for a move requires careful planning and the right materials to prevent them from breaking. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Materials You’ll Need:

1. Sturdy Boxes: Choose medium-sized boxes to avoid overloading them.
2. Packing Paper or Bubble Wrap: For cushioning and wrapping the glasses.
3. Dividers: Cardboard dividers can separate glasses and prevent them from clinking.
4. Packing Tape: To secure the boxes.
5. Markers: To label the boxes as “FRAGILE.”
6. Towels or Dishcloths (optional): As an extra layer of padding.

Step-by-Step Process:

1. Prepare the Box

• Line the bottom of the box with crumpled packing paper, bubble wrap, or soft towels for cushioning.
• If you're using a box with built-in dividers, assemble them now.

2. Wrap Each Glass Individually

• Lay the glass on a sheet of packing paper.
• Roll the glass in the paper, tucking in the edges as you go.
• For fragile stems (e.g., wine glasses), wrap the stem separately with extra paper or bubble wrap.

3. Add Extra Padding Inside

• If the glasses are hollow, stuff crumpled paper or small bubble wrap inside to add structural support.

4. Place Glasses in the Box

• Arrange the wrapped glasses upright in the box (never lay them flat).
• Use dividers if you have them, or place crumpled paper or bubble wrap between the glasses to prevent contact.

5. Fill Empty Spaces

• Fill any gaps in the box with crumpled paper, towels, or bubble wrap to keep the glasses from shifting.

6. Secure the Box

• Add another layer of cushioning (paper, bubble wrap, or towels) on top before sealing the box with packing tape.
• Shake the box gently to ensure nothing moves inside. If there’s movement, add more padding.

7. Label the Box

• Clearly label the box “FRAGILE” and “GLASSES.”
• Indicate which side of the box should face up.

8. Transport Carefully

• Place the box in a secure location in the moving truck, away from heavy items that could crush it.

Additional Tips:

• Double Box for Extra Fragility: Place the packed box inside a larger box lined with additional padding for high-value or very fragile glasses.
• Don’t Overpack: Keep boxes light enough to carry without dropping.
• Use Specialty Glassware Boxes: For expensive or sentimental glasses, consider purchasing boxes designed for glassware.

By taking these precautions, your glasses should arrive safely at your new home!