How to Pack Fine China: Tips and Techniques for a Safe Move

Home filled with moving boxes

Fine china is often a family heirloom and has great value that cannot be priced with a tag. If you own any you are aware of how fragile it is. I am often asked about the best way to pack china. Here is the advice I give:

  • Don’t use newspapers to pack like you would your other dishes. The ink comes off easily and is greasy and difficult to wash off.  You can find paper made specifically for moving things like china. It’s very heavy and can absorb a fair amount of bumping and bouncing.
  • Don’t stack your china before you wrap it. Always wrap each piece individually.
  • Use packing chips in the box. If those are not available  rolled  up newspaper can do that job but don’t ball it up too tightly –  and heaven forbid don’t put it in the bottom of the box.
  • Use bubble wrap between each plate. You want to hedge all your bets.
  • Pack china in a box by itself and in small boxes. Small boxes are easier to pad. They are also lighter and less likely to be dropped.
  • Mark all the china boxes as china and fragile, so the movers know what to do.
  • Make sure that the boxes are tapes solidly.

Don’t assume local moves are that much easier than long distance moves

Stack of moving boxes with owner's belongings

Most people think moving locally is a lot easier than moving long distance and out of state. There is a certain amount of truth to this, but the point should not be exaggerated.  This is because so many people underestimate how many details are involved with moving, that really it’s only the time frame that is easier.  Your costs may be less, but you still have to remember all the details like having your mail forwarded and setting up for the school where your kids will go.

. Another thing people underestimate is how soon in advance they should start the planning and packing process. Most think with a local move they always “have plenty of time” and don’t realize until it’s too late that they need to get going in order to make the deadline.

Also you should make sure that you have made your arrangements with the mover well in advance. This is particularly important if you live in a cold place. Often the weather can back thinks up for the mover in the winter, while he will probably be busy during the summer months. When it comes to local moving jobs, you still have to hammer down a date, and  make sure the mover makes a complete estimate out for you. It doesn’t hurt to get more than one, but never forget that the lowest price is usually not the best deal