Packing knives for a move can be a bit tricky. You want to make sure they’re safely secured, both to protect the blades and—more importantly—to prevent injuries during unpacking. Whether you’re relocating a full kitchen or just moving a few essentials, knowing how to pack knives properly can save you a lot of trouble (and bandages).
Here’s how we recommend doing it the right—and safe—way.
Step 1: Clean and Dry All Knives
Before packing, make sure all your knives are clean and completely dry. Moisture left on the blades can lead to rust, especially during long-distance moves or storage. This is also a good time to check for any damaged or worn knives you no longer want to keep.
Step 2: Sort by Size and Type
Separate your knives by size—paring knives, chef’s knives, serrated blades, etc. Keeping similar knives together makes them easier to pack securely. You’ll also want to wrap especially sharp or high-value knives separately to avoid damage.
Step 3: Wrap Each Knife Individually
Use several layers of packing paper, bubble wrap, or even dish towels to wrap each knife. Start at the blade and work your way to the handle. For extra protection, especially for sharp knives, consider placing a cardboard sheath over the blade or folding the tip into a thick piece of cardboard.
Pro Tip: Don’t use newspaper directly on blades—the ink can stain the metal.
Step 4: Bundle Knives Safely
After wrapping, you can bundle a few similar-sized knives together using rubber bands or string. Once bundled, place the group into a kitchen towel or a piece of cloth, then roll it up and tape it securely.
Alternatively, you can place each wrapped knife into a Tupperware container, small box, or plastic bin for added safety.
Step 5: Label Clearly
Label the box or container with something obvious like “Sharp Knives – Open Carefully.” This will not only keep movers or family members safe but also help you find them quickly when you start unpacking your new kitchen.
When in Doubt, Call the Pros
If you’re not confident about packing sharp or fragile items, it might be worth reaching out to professionals who have experience with this kind of detail.
We Haul It Inc is a full-service moving company that takes packing seriously—especially when it comes to potentially dangerous or breakable items. On their website, you’ll find more about how their trained team handles specialty kitchenware, delicate tools, and even knives with care and precision. They can provide both the materials and the muscle to make your kitchen move a safe one.
Packing knives for moving isn’t something to take lightly. It’s all about protecting both the blades and the people handling them. With the right materials and techniques—individual wrapping, safe bundling, and clear labeling—you can move your kitchen knives without any stress (or cuts). And if you’d rather leave it to the experts, We Haul It Inc offers peace of mind with professional packing services tailored to your exact needs.