A young female cake maker holding the top tier of a cake, thoughtfully deciding whether to stack it now or on-site, in a pastel-themed bakery with fondant figures and hedgehog decorations on the table.

When to Assemble a Tiered Cake – A Full Guide for Safe Transport and Stress-Free Setups

By Makai Cake Decorating Supplies

 

 

Tiered cakes are stunning centrepieces—but also a logistical challenge. 

Should you assemble the cake at home or at the venue? 
What size is safe to transport?
Which fillings are stable?

In this guide, we answer all your most pressing questions to help you deliver stacked cakes with confidence.

 

 



 When Can You Assemble a Tiered Cake in Advance? 

You can safely pre-stack most 2- or 3-tier cakes at home if:

  • The base tier is at least 8–10 inches wide and properly dowelled.

  • You’re using stable fillings like ganache, buttercream or fondant.

  • You’re delivering the cake over a short distance (under 30 minutes).

  • You can store it in a cool, climate-controlled environment before transport.

 

🗓️ Want to make your week smoother? Use our Weekly Cake Planner →

 

 



 When Should You Assemble the Cake On-Site? 

Always plan for on-site assembly when:

  • The cake has 4 or more tiers.

  • You're using fragile decorations (like sugar flowers or tall toppers).

  • The filling is soft or perishable (e.g., fresh cream, mousse).

  • Travel will take over an hour or includes poor roads or hot weather.

 

 



 Hybrid Option: Combine Pre-Stacking with On-Site Assembly 

A great compromise: stack the bottom two tiers at home, then add upper tiers and decorations on-site.
Transport the remaining tiers in separate boxes.

 

 

 



 What’s the Maximum Size You Can Safely Transport? 

 

  • 3 tiers / approx. 16 inches tall is the upper limit for reliable home delivery.

  • Avoid exceeding 18 kg in total weight for safe handling.

  • If a customer is collecting, limit to 2 tiers max, and always have them sign a disclaimer.

 

📄 Read: Why Every Cake Business Needs a Delivery Disclaimer Form →

 

 



 Which Fillings Are Safe for Transport? 

✅ Stable for stacking and travel:

  • Swiss meringue buttercream

  • Ganache

  • Fondant

  • High-fat ratio buttercream

 

⚠️ Risky or temperature-sensitive:

  • Whipped cream

  • Mousse or fresh fruit

  • Mascarpone or cream cheese (unless stabilised)

 

 



 How Far in Advance Can You Assemble the Cake? 

Assemble tiered cakes up to one day before delivery.

Store in:

  • A cool room or cake fridge (not a standard fridge if covered in fondant)

  • A well-ventilated box to avoid condensation

 

 



 What to Add Last – Just Before Delivery or On-Site 

  • Fresh flowers and fruit

  • Sugar flowers or tall toppers

  • Small decorative elements that may fall off

  • Anything affected by moisture or temperature

 

🚫 Read: Top 10 Cake Decorating Mistakes to Avoid → – Learn why fondant and fridges don't mix!

 

 



 Never Skip This Step: Always Get a Disclaimer Signed 

Even if the customer insists on picking up the cake, you must protect yourself legally. Once a cake leaves your premises, any damage during transit becomes their responsibility.

 

💬 Customer complaints often stem from transport damage. Be prepared. Read: How to Handle Complaints as a New Cake Maker →

 

 


⭐ Bonus Tip: 

Use a Cake Delivery Checklist to ensure nothing is forgotten, and every item arrives intact.

 

📄 Download the Cake Delivery Checklist →

 

 



 Need More Resources? 

 

 

How to Package and Transport Cakes Safely →

Cake Cutting Guide - How to Slice Cakes Properly →

Weekly Cake Planner – Free Template →

How to Use Dowel Rods in Stacked Cakes →


 

 

 


Back to blog