Dishes are fragile and need careful packing for a move. A plate stacked flat with nothing between it and the next plate is a ceramic sandwich waiting for one good pothole on I-10.

A crate does not remove the risk of damage. Suitable wrapping, cushioning, and handling still matter. Follow the dishware maker's packing guidance and the crate manufacturer's load and handling instructions.

Choose suitable wrapping

Wrap fragile plates, bowls, and glasses individually with suitable materials, following the maker's guidance. Cushion the bottom of the crate and between items, and check that the packing method suits the particular pieces.

Plates go vertical, like records

For plates suited to this method, wrap them individually and pack them on edge, with cushioning beneath and between them. Follow any packing guidance for your particular dishware.

Use padding to support the wrapped plates and fill gaps to reduce movement, without forcing items tightly together.

Glasses stay individually protected

Wrap drinking glasses individually and cushion them so they do not contact one another. Protect the bowls and stems of wine glasses separately, and follow the glassware maker's packing guidance. Avoid forcing glasses into one another or compressing them to stop movement.

Wrap mugs individually, cushioning their handles and keeping them from contacting neighboring items.

Heavy stuff rides alone

Pack heavy kitchen items separately from fragile dishware, and divide them among crates as needed to stay within the manufacturer's load and handling instructions. An appliance should only go in a crate if it fits and the load is suitable.

Plan how each crate will be handled before packing it. Do not rely on a test lift to establish its load limit.

Label the sides, not just the top

Crates stack, which means the top of your dish crate will be invisible the moment it's loaded. Write FRAGILE and "Kitchen — dishes" on the side of the crate with the included labels, so handlers can identify the contents. Follow the manufacturer's stacking instructions rather than relying on labels alone.

The full crate-packing method — weight order, stacking, labeling — is in our guide to packing a moving crate. And if you're staring at a full kitchen wondering where to start, our packages run 10 to 100 crates with delivery and pickup included — pick your size, or call or text (888) 615-2699 and we'll talk you through it.

Pack. Move. Repeat. — with care for the fragile things.