The kitchen is often the busiest room in the house—and one of the toughest to pack for a residential move. Between fragile glassware, heavy appliances, and shelves full of pantry staples, it takes strategy to get everything safely from point A to point B. With the right plan, you can protect your essentials and make settling into your new kitchen much smoother.
Declutter Before You Pack
Before you start boxing things up, take time to go through every cabinet and drawer. Sort items into keep, donate, and toss piles. Expired spices, duplicate gadgets, and little-used appliances only add clutter and cost. If you rarely bake, consider donating bulky mixers or pans. Moving is your chance to simplify, so only the items you truly use make it to your new home.
Gather the Right Packing Supplies
Kitchen items require sturdy boxes and good cushioning. Stock up on small and medium boxes, dish packs with dividers, packing paper, bubble wrap, and plenty of tape. Everyday linens—like dish towels or cloth napkins—make great padding, and they save space by pulling double duty. Just be sure every box is packed tightly to prevent shifting in transit.
Pack Dishes and Glassware Carefully
Use small, sturdy boxes for plates and wrap each piece individually. Stack dishes vertically, like records, to reduce pressure and breakage. For glassware, wrap each item and place it upright in a box with dividers. Fill empty spaces with crumpled paper to stop movement. Clearly label every box as “FRAGILE” and “THIS SIDE UP.”
Handle Small Appliances Smartly
Clean appliances thoroughly before packing. Detach removable parts, wrap cords securely, and pack them in sturdy boxes with padding. If you still have the original packaging, use it—it’s the safest fit. For heavier appliances, choose smaller boxes to avoid making them unmanageable.
Don’t Forget the Pantry and Food Items
A month before moving, start using up perishables to avoid waste. Pack unopened, non-perishable items like canned goods in small boxes to keep weight manageable—seal oils and liquids in plastic bags before boxing them to protect against spills. For long-distance moves, weigh whether transporting heavy pantry goods is worth the effort.
Pack Knives and Sharp Tools Safely
Knives are often overlooked when packing, but can be dangerous if not handled properly. Wrap each knife in paper, then bundle them together and secure with tape or a rubber band. Place the bundle in a box labeled clearly so you and your movers know to handle it with care.
Plan for Quick Kitchen Setup
Think ahead about how you’ll use your new kitchen. If possible, measure cabinets and appliance spaces before moving day. Pack a separate “essentials” box with basics like a pan, utensils, coffee supplies, and a few snacks. Keep this box with you so you can cook a simple meal without digging through stacks of boxes.
Label for Easier Unpacking
Go beyond writing “kitchen” on every box. Be specific—“everyday dishes,” “baking supplies,” or “coffee station.” Detailed labeling helps you prioritize unpacking and makes the process much faster. A color-coded tape system can also help movers place boxes in the right rooms without confusion.
Cook Up Success in Your New Kitchen
Packing your kitchen doesn’t have to be stressful. With smart decluttering, quality materials, and safe packing methods, you’ll protect your culinary essentials and make setting up your new space easier. A little preparation now ensures your kitchen will be ready to create new memories from day one.
Coordinating utilities doesn’t have to add stress to your move. By taking care of electricity, water, internet, and other essentials ahead of time, you’ll walk into a home that’s ready for daily life. While you manage these critical details, let our team handle the packing, transport, and logistics. Reach out today to see how we can make your move easier from start to finish.