A cross-brace assembly for a package for a household appliance and method of assembling are provided. The cross-brace assembly can include a holder having a body having opposing first and second sides. The body includes first and second inner tabs that include first and second apertures, respectively. A first outer tab projects from the first side of the body, adjacent to the first inner tab, and a second outer tab projects from the second side of the body, adjacent to the second inner tab. A brace having opposing first and second ends can be received within the first and second apertures such that the first end of the brace is disposed adjacent the first outer tab and the second end of the brace is disposed adjacent the second outer tab to retain the brace relative to the holder.