How to Pack China for Moving Like a Pro

You’ve already delayed packing your fine china for as long as possible. The mere thought of cracking one of those delicate plates is enough to make anyone nervous. And who can blame you? Replacing a piece from your grandmother’s china set is practically impossible. But here’s the key: if you know how to pack correctly, it’s easier and safer than you think.

Start with the most critical item: get the right materials. Cheap packing supplies will cost you dearly in the long run. Professional movers often recommend double-walled boxes for china and other fragile items. This level of protection is essential because no matter how careful you are, boxes can be bumped, dropped, or stacked improperly during a move. Skimping on these materials could be the difference between a perfectly preserved set and a disaster waiting to happen.

Next, let’s talk about the packing process itself. You don’t just throw plates into a box with a bit of bubble wrap and hope for the best. No. Every single piece of china deserves its own attention. Start by wrapping each piece individually. Whether you use bubble wrap or soft paper, the principle is the same: your goal is to create a buffer zone around each item so that nothing comes into contact with anything else. One of the common mistakes is thinking that “just a little bump” won’t matter. But tiny vibrations during a move can cause micro-cracks, which worsen over time.

When you’re done wrapping, placement in the box is key. Heavy items like platters or serving dishes should always go at the bottom. Smaller, lighter items—teacups, saucers—go at the top. Why? Because gravity is your enemy when it comes to china packing. Any unexpected jolt during transit can send the heavier items crashing down on the lighter ones. And remember: add cushioning between layers. Use towels, soft packing paper, or even linens if you’re in a pinch, but the goal is to avoid any movement inside the box. A well-packed box feels solid when you gently shake it—there’s no shifting, no rattling.

Now, here’s a pro move most people don’t consider: label your boxes like a paranoid person. It’s not just about writing “FRAGILE” on the outside. You want specific instructions: “TOP LOAD ONLY,” “THIS SIDE UP,” and if possible, an additional label for the contents. Movers will appreciate knowing exactly what’s inside, and you’ll appreciate the peace of mind when those boxes are unloaded at your new home. If you’re hiring movers, take a moment to walk them through your most fragile items. Don’t just assume they’ll handle it with care because it’s labeled. Clear communication can save you heartache.

Finally, what do you do when you arrive? The temptation is to rip open every box and start unloading, but resist! Give your china the attention it deserves during unpacking. Go slow, be methodical, and most importantly, inspect each piece. Any damage should be documented immediately if you’re filing a claim with a moving company.

Here’s a simple truth that’s often ignored: the anxiety of packing china comes from not knowing the process, but when you follow these steps, the whole task becomes a lot less intimidating.

In the table below, we summarize key materials needed for a stress-free move:

Item	Why It’s Important
Double-walled boxes	Extra protection against bumps and drops
Bubble wrap/soft packing paper	Protects individual items from direct contact
Packing tape	Ensures the box stays sealed during transport
Towels/linens for cushioning	Prevents movement within the box
Fragile item labels	Ensures movers handle boxes with extra care

There’s more to unpacking and packing china than just physical work—it’s about having a plan and sticking to it. Moving is stressful enough without worrying about broken heirlooms. Following the steps I’ve outlined will not only protect your items but will also save you time, money, and, most importantly, heartache.