How to Pack a Kitchen for a Move: A Room-by-Room Checklist

Start Early

Most people underestimate how long it takes to pack a kitchen. Give yourself at least three to four days if you have a full kitchen with multiple cabinets, a pantry, and countertop appliances. Starting early also gives you time to sort through what you actually want to bring versus what should be donated or thrown away before the move.

Gather Your Supplies First

Before you open a single cabinet, make sure you have everything you need. For a kitchen, that means:

• Sturdy small and medium boxes (avoid large boxes for dishes, they get too heavy)
• Plenty of packing paper or unprinted newsprint
• Bubble wrap for fragile items
• Dish packs or cell dividers for glassware
• Packing tape and a marker for labeling

Step-by-Step: How to Pack Each Area

Step 1: Declutter Before You Pack

Go through your pantry and cabinets before packing anything. Discard expired food, donate non-perishables you will not use, and get rid of duplicate utensils or appliances you have been holding onto for no reason. This cuts down the volume of what you are moving and saves you from unpacking things you do not need.

Step 2: Pack the Items You Use Least First

Start with the things you rarely touch. Seasonal bakeware, holiday serving dishes, and specialty gadgets can all be packed weeks in advance. Work your way toward the everyday items as your move date gets closer.

Step 3: Dishes and Glassware

This is where most of the damage happens if you rush. Follow these rules:

• Wrap each dish individually with packing paper
• Stack plates vertically in the box, not flat. Plates packed flat are far more likely to crack under pressure
• Use cell dividers for glasses and stemware
• Fill any empty space in the box with crumpled paper so nothing shifts in transit
• Label every fragile box clearly on the top and all four sides

Step 4: Pots, Pans, and Bakeware

These are heavy, so use small boxes. Nest smaller pots inside larger ones and place a layer of packing paper between each one to prevent scratching. Lids can be wrapped and placed inside the pot they belong to.

Step 5: Small Appliances

• Wrap each appliance in bubble wrap
• Use the original box when possible
• If you no longer have the box, use a box slightly larger than the appliance and fill empty space with packing paper
• Remove and tape down any detachable parts so they do not break off in transit

Step 6: Food and Pantry Items

Non-perishables can be packed, but keep them in a separate clearly labeled box. Perishables should be used up before moving day or donated. Seal any liquids like oils, vinegars, or sauces in zip-lock bags before packing to prevent leaks.

Step 7: Pack Your Essentials Box Last

Before you seal the last kitchen box, set aside what you will need during the first day or two in your new home:

• Coffee maker
• One pot and basic utensils
• Paper plates and cups
• A few snacks or easy meals

Pack these in a clearly labeled box and load it last so it comes off the truck first.