The process of relocating houses is never an exciting experience, especially when you consider the costs and complications of transferring fragile or sharp objects from the kitchen to the new location. 

Packing knives when moving is complicated because knives can be hazardous and even costly, not to mention they are sharp as well. Broken blades may spoil your set, and ill-stored ones may be injured in transit. 

Hence, if you have expensive Japanese knife sets, for example, you want to pack them in  a way that preserves and protects them best.

Here, in this guide, I'm going to uncover the safest and most effective methods of moving your knives as you relocate within the state or even abroad.

how to pack kitchen knives when moving

What Is the Best Way to Pack Your Knives When Moving?

The most effective method of packing your knives when moving is putting emphasis on the safety and protection of the blade. Knives are unlike plates or pans:

  • They're sharp. Knives may slice boxes and packing paper without being properly wrapped.
  • They're fragile. Although people believe it is not so, knives may chip, bend, or get dull when thrown about.
  • They're valuable. Good knives are a long-term investment, and therefore, it is important to safeguard them in the process of relocation.

In order to store your knives, always wrap them separately, pad them, and keep them in a special bag or box. Professional tools, such as a knife roll bag, are the best additions when it comes to additional protection.

How to Pack Your Knives

There are 4 important steps for packing your knives: wrap each knife individually, group those of a similar length and size together, place them in a knife bag, and cushion the box or bag. Follow these steps to pack your knives when moving

1. Wrap Each Knife Individually

  • Wrap each knife in bubble wrap, an envelope of packing paper, or even a towel.
  • Insert the knife on a diagonal in the material, roll it, and use tape.
  • Pad the blade tip to avoid puncture.

2. Bundle Knives of Similar Size

  • After wrapping, tie the group of 2-3 knives. 
  • Ideally, you do not want to mix types: do not confuse big chef knives and paring knives, for example.
  • Wrap up with a rubber band or packing tape.

3. Use a Strong Outer Layer

  • Insert wrapped knives in a durable box, a drawer organizer, or the ideal one is a knife bag.
  • If using a cardboard box, clearly label it “Sharp – Knives” for safety.

4. Cushion the Box or Bag

  • Towel or bubble wrap the bottom.
  • Make sure that knives will not slide during transport.

These measures will help you avoid accidents as well as blade damage.

how to move your knives internationally

How to Move Your Knives Internationally

There are additional regulations to keep in mind in case you are relocating to another country or travelling on an aircraft with your knives.

  • TSA Rules: According to the TSA guidelines, knives are not allowed in carry-on bags. You must place them in checked luggage.
  • Packing for Flights: Secure your knives in a padded knife bag or a hard case to prevent damage.
  • Customs Regulations: Some countries restrict the import of knives with blades longer than a certain length. Always check your destination country’s rules before traveling.

This leads to a more usual question:

Is it possible to carry a knife in a checked bag? 

In simple words, yes, you can carry a knife in a checked bag. Is it possible to carry a knife in your baggage? Well, provided it is safely secured and asserted where need be.

To be on the safe side, always make sure that your knives are packed in a manner that they will not be mishandled by the airport personnel. The most appropriate solution to this is a knife bag.

Get a Knife Bag from Kyoku

Although it is possible to use paper or towels to wrap your knives, there is no substitute for a professional knife roll bag. It is built to carry safely, whether that is moving houses, traveling, or simply storing your knives.

The Kyoku Knife Roll Bag is one of the best options you can get:

  • Smooth Design: Constructed of superior quality canvas that endures the long commute.
  • Multiple Pockets: Holds a variety of various-sized knives firmly.
  • Blade Protection: This helps to avoid scratches, chips, or dulling when transporting.
  • Portability: Can be rolled up and carried easily, and everything is organized.

In case you are concerned about securing your knives, investing in such a bag is a guarantee of calmness. It is not only used to move, but also a necessity when it comes to chefs, home cooks, and the owners of a blade.

Is it possible to carry kitchen knives in a carry-on bag when flying?

FAQ: How to Pack Your Knives When Moving

1. Is it possible to carry kitchen knives in a carry-on bag when flying?

No, knives are not allowed to be carried as baggage. These have to be checked baggage.

2. How do you pack knives in the safest way to move them locally?

Wrap each knife individually, package like-size knives together, and put them in a knife roll bag or a padded box.

3. Is it possible to carry a knife in a bag across the borders?

Yes, however, always make sure that you read the knife laws of your destination country because some of them limit the length of the blade.

4. Do I need a knife roll bag?

Yes, in order to get the utmost protection. It keeps your blades safer and, more importantly, it makes your transportation secure.

Final Thoughts on Packing Your Knives When Moving

Figuring out how to pack your knives when moving doesn't have to be stressful. Wrapping, bunding, adhering to TSA regulations about international travel, and a proven carry-mover such as the Kyoku Knife Roll Bag can ensure that you move your knives safely and without worry.

Your knives are among some of the most useful tools in your kitchen; handle them during your move as you do when cooking. Shop now at Kyokuknives.

Edward Thompson
Hello, my name is Edward Thompson and I'm a writer who loves Japanese food and culture. I went to a great cooking school in New York and have been to Japan several times to learn more about Japanese cooking and knife culture. I know all about Japanese knives, from their history and how they're made to how to use them.