How to Transport A Cake

How to transport a cake, especially the tiered ones? This is quite a common question I often get from new cake decorators.

I have made and transported tall tiered cakes many times. And the one thing that really stresses me up in the whole process of decorating and delivering a cake is definitely the process of getting the cake delivered to the event venue in one piece.

And so I totally feel the pain when others struggle with the process of transporting their cakes. More so if it's the tall and tiered ones.

How to transport a cake

Over time, I have learned a couple of tricks to reduce the stress of delivering cakes. And those are the tips and tricks I am sharing on this page.

My Tips on How to Transport a Cake

Assemble tiered cakes at the event venue

I always only assemble tall tiered cakes at the wedding hall or event venue. It is OK to transport a two or three-tier assembled cakes, but taller cakes are best assembled at the event venue. I transport each tier on its own, either in a cake pan or a cake box.

And in circumstances where I don't have a choice but to assemble the tiered cake upfront before delivery for whatever reason, I always insert a long dowel rod through the center of the stacked cakes for additional support. And Idrive extra slow on the road. Click here to learn how to insert a dowel rod through stacked cake tiers.

Plan the trip so that there is enough time for a slow ride to the event venue

Another important tip (to reduce the stress of transporting a cake!) is to find out the distance of the event venue or wedding hall in advance. This is so that adequate time can be allocated to reach the event venue on time. I normally allocate a good one to two hours to assemble the cake at the event venue. So in deciding on the delivery time, I make sure I have enough time to drive to the event venue and assemble the cake.

And if its a wedding cake, I always try to complete all the assembly at least 2 to 3 hours before the start of the function. That way, I have enough back up time should there be any delay caused by bad traffic or other unforeseen incidents. It also allows me to complete the cake before any guests arrive for the function.

Drive slowly

Driving speed is another important factor is ensuring the safe transportation of cakes. I normally drive at a slow speed and I try to avoid sudden jerks or brakes to prevent my cakes from sliding and hitting the sides of the boxes.

And if I am travelling with an assembled cake, I drive at an extra slow speed. And always use non-slip mats. These mats provide a good grip and avoid my cakes from moving or sliding as a result of sudden movement.

A 5 tier wedding cake decorated in orange and yellow

This 5 tier wedding cake was transported as separate tiers and I only assembled it at the wedding venue.

How to Transport a Cake - Additional tips

Bring your cake decorating tools along when transporting a cake

Always make sure that you bring all your cake decorating tools with you in a toolbox. Also, remember to bring extra cake icing (the same type you used for the cake). Always bring extra flowers if you are using any. This should be the case for both fresh or sugar flowers. They are for contingency, to replace any broken or damaged ones on the cake.

Inform the event manager to watch the cake after assembly

When you have finished assembling the cake, be sure to inform the event manager at the venue. This is particularly important in the case of a wedding cake. The bride and groom will not be there to see the cake until after the party has started. So, inform the manager before you leave the venue to make sure the cake is well taken care of. This is also to avoid any accidents to the cake by staff who are busy with other deco, music and stuff.

Remember to take photos of your fully set up cake after you transport and set it up

Always take a few photos of the completely assembled cake (from different angles). And send the images to your customer before you leave the venue. This is just in case someone knocks down your cake while you are gone and blames it on you. At least with the photo, your customer will know that you have done a good job. And does not blame you for any mishaps.