How to pack plates for moving

Whether packing for a house move or packing for storage, plates are one of the easiest items to wrap but the hardest to pack. 

You´ll need: 

• The right sized box(es) to pack the plates without them rattling around; 
• Packing paper; 
• Bubble wrap; 
• Packing tape; 
• Marker pen to label the box. 

Our generic guide to packing [insert link] covers the need for good quality, correctly sized boxes.  With crockery like plates, which are usually both heavy and fragile, this is essential to avoid breakages. Stick with small to mid sized boxes. Before starting to pack, make sure any boxes used for plates are sturdy and properly sealed with strong tape across any openings other than the ´entrance´. 

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This is one of those occasions where bubble wrap is a great solution for packing. Lining the box all round with bubble wrap (bubble side inwards) offers a valuable cushioning. You will be wrapping each plate individually as well, so the bubble wrap won´t be touching your plates.  

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Wrap each plate individually with packing paper. Lay each, individually, flat in the middle of the paper and fold in the sides. Add more layers until the plate feels safe, usually when you can´t feel or see the china through the paper. Seal with Sellotape type tape to secure. 

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Don´t be tempted to wrap more than one plates in the same piece of wrapping paper – opening them will be risky. However, taping two wrapped plates together can add to their strength. (We don´t recommend more than two.)

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If plates are different sizes, pack them in size order, largest first.

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The softer the base your plates are on, the less likely any breakages.Therefore, once the box is prepared and lined, start scrunching up your packing paper into balls. This will provide a soft bed for plates to sit on and give the box better shock absorption. Bubble wrap can also be used for this, but it is more expensive and you might want it for wrapping later. You can also use soft household items like pillows, towels and sheets. 

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Many people recommend that you DON¨T pack plates laid flat, but, rather, on their side. This helps them absorb shock and stress without damage. Again, bubble wrap is your friend and if you want to add a layer between each plate (in addition to the paper wrapping) this will offer additional protection. 

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Pad any gaps in the box with scrunched up paper (one of the few times newspaper is your friend), left over bits of bubble wrap, even cloth. The important thing is not what it´s made of but how well it can help hold things in place, stop rattles, and thereby avoid breakages. 

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Seal and label the box, being sure to mark it ´FRAGILE ´ and you´re ready to go! 

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