The Expert’s Guide: How to Pack Your Kitchen for Moving

Packing a kitchen is one of the toughest moving tasks — it’s full of fragile items, strange shapes, and things you use every day. The best way to pack your kitchen is to follow a clear system: declutter first, group similar items, and wrap everything properly. With the right approach, you’ll protect your belongings and make unpacking much easier.

1. Start With Decluttering and Taking Inventory

Before putting anything into boxes, spend time sorting your kitchen. This saves time, reduces stress, and lowers your moving cost.

Use the “Keep, Donate, Toss” Method

This simple method helps you quickly remove items you don’t actually need.

• Toss: Expired food, old spices, cracked dishes, broken appliances.
  
• Donate: Duplicate gadgets, unused tools, pantry items you won’t bring.
  
• Keep: Only what you know you’ll use in your new kitchen.
  

For more full-home decluttering tips, check out our residential moving guide.

2. Gather the Right Packing Supplies

Kitchens contain some of the most fragile items in the home, so quality supplies are a must.
You can purchase everything you need from us (see our boxes and moving supplies), but your checklist should include:

• Small/Medium Boxes: For plates, glasses, canned goods.
  
• Large Boxes: Only for lightweight items like towels or plastic containers.
  
• Packing Paper: For wrapping dishes and glassware.
  
• Bubble Wrap: For high-value items like crystal or expensive appliances.
  
• Heavy-Duty Tape & Markers: To secure and label each box clearly.
  

3. Pack By Zones to Stay Organized

Packing similar items together makes everything safer and much easier to unpack.

Fragile Items: Plates, Bowls, Glasses

Proper wrapping is the key to preventing breakage.

Plates & Bowls

• Wrap each piece individually.
  
• Pack plates vertically, not stacked — this reduces pressure and impact risk.
  

Glasses & Mugs

• Stuff the inside with crumpled paper for support.
  
• Wrap the whole item and place heavier pieces at the bottom of the box.
  

Stemware (Wine Glasses)

• Double-wrap and use bubble wrap if needed.
  
• Pack separately from regular dishes.
  

Small Appliances

Whenever possible, use original boxes. If you don’t have them, use the wrapping-and-nesting method.

• Wrap appliances in bubble wrap or towels.
  
• Tape cords securely.
  
• Nest smaller items inside larger padded boxes to save space and protect everything.
  

Utensils and Kitchen Tools

Most utensils aren’t fragile, but they need good organization.

Knives

Bundle them tightly in a towel or cardboard sleeve and label clearly:
“DANGER: SHARP KNIVES.”

Flatware

Bundle forks, spoons, and knives separately, then wrap in a towel or paper.

4. Finish Strong: Weight Rules, Labels, and the Essentials Box

Keep Boxes at a Safe Weight

Small and medium kitchen boxes should stay under 40–50 pounds.
Canned goods get heavy fast — don’t overload.

For reference: moving a typical 2–3 bedroom home in Toronto starts around $790 + tax, partly due to the effort required to safely handle heavy kitchen boxes.

Prepare an “Open First” Kitchen Essentials Box

This saves you stress on your first day in the new home. Include:

• Paper towels, dish soap, sponge
  
• 1 pan, 1 pot, and basic utensils
  
• Two mugs, two plates, and cutlery
  
• Coffee maker + coffee
  
• Snacks and bottled water
  

Label it clearly: “OPEN FIRST — KITCHEN ESSENTIALS.”

Label All Boxes Clearly

Every kitchen box should include:

• The room name (KITCHEN)
  
• A list of contents
  
• FRAGILE (if applicable)
  

Ready to avoid the stress of packing a kitchen?
Request a Free Moving Quote Today and let A-Z Moving handle the heavy lifting and logistics.

FAQ: Kitchen Packing

Can I use towels or linens as padding?

Yes — towels, tablecloths, and even paper towels are great for extra cushioning. Just make sure each fragile item is still wrapped properly.

How should I pack liquids and cleaning supplies?

Do not move open food containers.
Double-bag cleaning liquids and place them in a clearly labeled, separate box — ideally transported personally.

How long does it take to pack a kitchen?

Typically 4–6 hours for an average 3-bedroom home (not counting decluttering).
Professional packing and unpacking services can reduce this time significantly.

Do I need special handling for the fridge or freezer?

Yes. Empty, defrost, and clean it 24–48 hours before moving.
If you only need help with the appliance itself, check out our single item movers service.