Packing boxes is very important when you move. If the box is too heavy, it may break the bottom leaving you with a huge mess. Of course, if you don't pack your moving boxes properly, you may end up unpacking many broken items. If you want to ensure your boxes are packed properly, use our step-by-step process and tips below:
Group similar items together by size and weight. Keep them separated by the room they belong within, as well.
Get your box ready by covering the bottom with a layer of packing peanuts.
Use bubble wrap or packing paper to wrap all of your heaviest items.
Place the heaviest items on the bottom of the box.
Wrap lighter items with packing paper or bubble wrap.
Add a layer of cushion foam between the heavier items on the bottom of the box and the lighter items you will place on the top of the box.
Before you complete the packing process, fill the rest of the box with packing peanuts or packing paper crumpled up and stuffed firmly into the spaces.
Keep all filled boxes under 30 pounds in total weight, but make sure they are full. Under packed boxes could collapse during the move, while over packed boxes may rupture or may hurt your back as you move them.
Close the box with packing tape and label it based on what's packed inside.
This step-by-step process will help keep lighter and fragile items from getting crushed by heavier items. It will also use the integrity of each box properly as you pack. We also recommend you look into using plastic totes from The Chicago Green Box.
Tips for Packing your Boxes Properly
There are several tips you should use when packing moving boxes including:
Pack one room at a time - When you pack one room at a time, it's easier to label the boxes and keep all similar items together. This will make unpacking easier, as well.
Use Bright Colored Tissue Paper for Small Items - Sometimes, smaller items get lost in the packing peanuts and packing paper. Instead of wrapping these items in the same packing paper, use bright colored tissue paper so they don't get lost.
Use Different Colors for Different Rooms - You can use dot stickers or different colored markers to indicate which boxes belong in which room. This will make unpacking easier.
Avoid Using Printed Newspaper for Packing - Printed Newspaper contains ink, which may bleed onto the item you are packing. Instead, use unprinted packing paper for all of your items
Use Boxes Designed for Moving - It may be cheaper to get your boxes from a store or restaurant, but those boxes are not designed for moving. If you want the best results, use only boxes designed for moving.
Avoid Odd Sized Boxes - Packing with boxes all of a similar size makes it easier when loading the moving truck.
Now you should easily be able to properly pack your moving boxes. Use our step-by-step process above and the tips we have provided and your move will go much smoother.