Packing books for moving can be tricky, if you have many of them. On the one hand, they are heavy — and on the other hand, they can be fragile and prone to various kinds of damage. From this article, you'll learn how to cope with the task in the most hassle-free manner. The instructions will be based on hands-on experiences of library employees, who handle this type of cargo regularly.
The moving company can charge you by weight, box, or square feet in a truck. The fewer items you carry with you, the lower your expenses.
Sort out the books that you don't need anymore, but don't throw them away. Instead, consider donating them to your friends as well as local libraries and churches. Besides, there can be book-crossing stations at nearby cafés or other entertainment facilities. Most likely, you'll need to arrange transportation yourself, so please schedule it in advance.
The list of tools and materials to prepare includes:
Paper and bubble wrap will fill the empty spaces that can remain around some books. It will prevent undesirable shifts and potential damage during transportation.
You'll need tape to secure the top and bottom of each box, applying a double layer on each seam. If you use recycled boxes, a third layer won't hurt.
Markers are for labeling. You may want to use different colors to sign boxes with specific contents — for instance, black for photo albums, and red for your kid's comics.
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The best box for this purpose is made of sturdy cardboard and is free from dampness. It should be small or medium — if it's large, it will become too heavy. The ideal weight is less than 40 pounds. The ideal size is approximately 12 x 12 x 16 inches, which equals 1.5 cubic feet.
Alternatively, you may consider putting your books in backpacks, tote bags, shopping bags, suitcases, and even dresser drawers. However, avoid doing so with items that require special care because all these variants can't ensure sufficient protection.
The best way to pack books depends on their type. Let's have a look at the three categories. There is common advice for all of them: avoid pressing books too tightly against each other — otherwise, you may risk damaging them while unpacking.
There are two ways to place them — upright or flat.
In the former case, let them be standing spine against the box's side, almost like on a shelf. This is the most secure approach.
It makes sense to pack a book flat if it's large, like the ones that you put on a coffee table. Or, you can do so with the items that are not too valuable, because they might get deformed on the way.
When dealing with this type, let their spines face down and the paper edges up. If you do the opposite, the pages might bend. Alternatively, you can put them in flat stacks.
These can include, for instance, first editions or family photo albums that require extra protection. Wrap each item in paper. Use balled-up packing paper or bubble wrap to line the inside of the box. To keep the spines straight and prevent movement, insert stiff cardboard inside each volume.
And now, the last step. Books are heavy, so if they topple down in the middle of the way, they might damage your more fragile belongings. That's why it's important to put them on the truck's floor and secure them. If possible, avoid stacking them — otherwise, secure them twice as thoroughly. To create a stable foundation, load the heaviest boxes first and put lighter ones on top.
Sometimes, you can't transport all your belongings to a new destination right away and need to keep them in a storage for a few days, weeks, or months. In such circumstances, opt for a dry and cool facility. Wrap each item in acid-free paper that grants the highest protection level.
Hopefully, this article was comprehensive enough, and now, you don't need to ask anymore about how to pack books for moving! Start with getting rid of the items that you don't need. Prepare the necessary materials and tools, paying special attention to the size and quality of boxes. Separate hardcovers from paperbacks and particularly valuable items.
Our professional and experienced team will be glad to help you transport your belongings to a new destination! Feel free to contact us right now to discuss your upcoming move and get a free quote!