I need suggestions for sturdy disposable bases for transporting cakes. Sometimes I use a cut piece of plywood and then cover it in tissue paper or fabric. That works great but it seems like a lot of expense and trouble to do that on every big cake.

Foam core works great...not expensive and isn't nearly as heavy at plywood.

1/2" foam core is the trick.

I use 1/2" foam core or 4 cake boards stacked for moderate (3 tier) cakes.

For four tiered cakes on up, I order the 1/2" nova wood boards from Oasis Supply (cake supply company). They are like $10 for a 16" round board but if you are selling a 4 tiered cake then its not a huge expense and it will be the best base for that heavy of a cake. If the party or wedding is not far, you can get it returned to you but I never worry about it.

When I get those nova wood boards I always tape the sides to make the corners more gentle on the foil.

For wedding cakes and anything over 2 tiers, I use 1/2" mdf. We buy the boards and my hubby cuts them for me.

Foam core for me too. Easy to cut and nice and sturdy. You can find it at Michaels in assorted thicknesses if you have one in your area.

I use cake drums.

Thank you all so much! I have never heard of foam core before. I will look for it.