How to Pack Your Kitchen Like a Pro

The kitchen is notoriously the most challenging room to pack. Between fragile dishes, awkward appliances, and half-used pantry items, it can feel like a puzzle. Here's how to tackle it.

What You'll Need

• Small, medium, and large boxes
• Packing paper (not newspaper — the ink transfers)
• Bubble wrap for extra-fragile items
• Permanent marker and labels
• Zip-lock bags for hardware and small parts

Pack in This Order

1. Least-Used Items First

Start with specialty appliances (stand mixer, blender, waffle maker), seasonal items, and extra dishes you rarely touch.

2. Pantry & Dry Goods

• Donate or use up perishables before moving day
• Pack canned goods in small boxes — they get heavy fast!
• Seal open bags with tape or rubber bands before boxing

3. Dishes & Glassware

• Wrap each plate individually in packing paper
• Stack plates vertically (like records) — they're less likely to break
• Fill every gap with crumpled paper so nothing shifts
• Label boxes FRAGILE — THIS SIDE UP

4. Pots & Pans

• Nest smaller pans inside larger ones
• Place lids in a separate box lined with packing paper
• Cast iron goes in small boxes due to weight

5. Last-Minute Essentials

Pack a separate "open first" bag with: coffee maker, kettle, one set of dishes, paper towels, and dish soap.

Pro Tip

Never pack a box you can't comfortably lift. Kitchen items are deceptively heavy — keep boxes under 30 lbs.

Need professional packing help? Find a local moving service near you.