How to Pack Wine Glasses for Moving: Step-by-Step Guide

Packing wine glasses for a move is a delicate process. Stemware is fragile, thin, and easily breakable if not packed correctly. Proper techniques, supplies, and attention to detail will ensure your glasses arrive intact.

In this guide, Hollander Storage & Moving Co provides step-by-step instructions on how to pack wine glasses for moving, including tips for DIY packing and professional assistance.

• Stemware is fragile and prone to breaking.
• Thin glass and delicate rims make stacking risky.
• Proper packing prevents financial loss and frustration.
• Protects glasses during both short and long moves.

• Dish pack boxes (preferably with dividers)
• Bubble wrap or foam sheets
• Packing paper
• Packing tape
• Scissors
• Permanent marker for labeling
• Plastic wrap for irregular glasses
• Optional: Styrofoam inserts for fragile glasses

Step 1: Clean and Dry

Ensure each glass is spotless and dry to prevent scratches or stains.

Step 2: Inspect for Damage

Check for existing chips or cracks. Separate fragile glasses needing extra padding.

Step 3: Sort by Size and Shape

• Stem height: short, medium, long
• Glass diameter: narrow, wide
• Special glasses: champagne flutes, martini glasses, goblets

Step 1: Wrap Each Glass

• Place a sheet of packing paper or bubble wrap around the bowl and stem.
• Twist paper around the stem carefully to protect delicate parts.

Step 2: Use Dividers

• Place each glass upright into individual compartments of a dish pack box.
• For boxes without dividers, create homemade partitions with cardboard.

Step 3: Layer Carefully

• Bottom layer: crumpled paper or foam
• Middle layer: stemware in dividers
• Top layer: more padding to prevent movement

Step 4: Fill Empty Gaps

• Use crumpled paper to prevent shifting inside the box.
• Ensure glasses do not touch each other directly.

Step 5: Seal and Label

• Close the box with strong packing tape.
• Label as Fragile – Wine Glasses and mark This Side Up.

• Keep boxes upright during transport.
• Place heavier boxes at the bottom.
• Avoid stacking boxes too high.
• Use ratchet straps to secure the moving truck.

• Do not use newspaper with print (ink can transfer).
• Avoid overpacking; boxes should be manageable.
• Always label fragile boxes clearly.
• Keep boxes upright; tilting can break stems.
• Use professional-grade dish pack boxes for valuable glasses.

• Open boxes carefully; remove padding gradually.
• Inspect each glass immediately for damage.
• Place in cabinets slowly; avoid sudden stacking.
• Keep stems upright to prevent bending or snapping.

• Place on level ground to prevent tipping.
• Verify doors and locks work properly.
• Reinstall shelves and drawers.
• Consider floor anchoring for tall or heavy safes.

Packing wine glasses requires care, proper materials, and attention to detail. By following these steps, your stemware will remain intact during any move. For delicate or expensive glasses, professional movers like Hollander Storage & Moving Co provide additional safety and peace of mind.

Pro Tip: Always wrap glasses individually, use dividers, and label boxes clearly.