The Best Way to Pack Moving Boxes

Storage Corner | November 1, 2023 @ 12:00 AM

How do you pack moving boxes like a pro? Check out this guide.

After all the excitement, the reality of packing all those boxes is setting in. It’s now just a matter of getting your belongings safely and securely packed within the next few weeks.

Don’t panic! Keep your packing on track with these excellent moving tips.


The first step is to gather supplies.

Start by investing in moving boxes. Fragile items require special moving boxes. Boxes that are old and used can collapse and be contaminated.

Among the other supplies you should have on hand are:

  • Tape
  • Tags and Labels
  • Bubble wrap or peanuts


The second step is to sort the items according to their categories.

Build your first box, then pack each area one at a time.

Make sure you group like-sized and weighted items together before you place them in your first moving box.

Packing your bedroom, for example, can allow you to organize all your favorite small knick-knacks.


The third. Make sure the moving box is almost full.

In the case of non-fragile items, make sure to fill every space as much as you can without weighing the box down.

Stacking empty boxes can lead to them collapsing. Pack each box tightly before sealing it with excess packing paper if necessary.

Pro tip: Don’t fill boxes beyond 30 pounds. Book boxes, for example, should be small or medium-sized.

Large boxes are always best for lighter items!


The fourth. Wrap breakables carefully.

Properly wrapping your breakables can make the difference between whether they arrive intact.

A dishware set is one of those items that should be overpacked rather than underpacked.

Never place dishes and plates flat into boxes. Between each piece of glass or bowl, place a sheet of paper or padding.


The fifth point. Glass items should be stored in box dividers.

Use dividers to separate your moving boxes for an extra layer of protection for breakables.

Different sizes are available for these dividers, which are great for protecting glasses and stemware.

You can protect your glasses by wrapping them in packing paper or bubble wrap and then placing them in the dividers.


The sixth point. Each box should be sealed and labeled.

As soon as you’ve packed each box, seal it with strong packing tape.

Here’s how: Tape the flaps across the top of the box. Apply another piece of tape against the flaps of the box next.

By using this method of sealing, the box doesn’t collapse when it’s stacked, thereby protecting its contents.


Last but not least, clearly label each box with its room and contents.

By labeling your belongings, you will not only be able to save money, but your movers will also be more efficient (which will also help you).

Moving boxes are much easier to pack when you know how to do it correctly.

Hopefully, this guide showed you some helpful tips on packing them up, filling them appropriately, and labeling them as well. Have fun!

If there are items you need to store, we’re equipped to accommodate you with our multiple locations in Utah and Idaho.


Preparation and Planning

Before diving into the packing process, a little preparation and planning can go a long way. Start by creating a moving checklist to keep everything in order before, during, and after the move. This checklist will be your roadmap, ensuring you don’t miss any crucial steps.

Next, take some time to declutter. Go through your belongings and get rid of anything you no longer need or use. This will not only reduce the number of items you need to pack, move, and unpack, but it will also make your new space feel more organized and less cluttered.

Measure your new location and your furniture to ensure everything will fit and be accessible. This step can save you from the frustration of discovering that your favorite couch won’t fit through the door.

Take photos of both your old and new locations. These photos can serve as a reference for the condition of your new place and help you remember how things were arranged in your old home.

Finally, create a timeline for unpacking. Decide what needs to be unpacked immediately and what can wait. This will help you prioritize and make the transition smoother.


Choosing the Right Supplies

Having the right supplies is crucial for a successful move. Start with sturdy moving boxes in various sizes to accommodate different types of items. Fragile items, in particular, need special attention, so make sure you have plenty of packing paper, bubble wrap, and foam sheets to protect them.

Packing tape is essential for securing your boxes and preventing them from opening during transit. Invest in high-quality tape to ensure your boxes stay sealed.

Markers are indispensable for labeling your boxes. Clearly indicate which room each box belongs in and a brief description of its contents. This will make unpacking much more efficient.

Don’t forget garbage bags for disposing of packing materials and any unwanted items you come across while packing. They can also be used to pack soft items like pillows and stuffed animals.

Toilet paper rolls can be surprisingly useful as packing materials for fragile items. Simply place them around delicate items to provide extra cushioning.

Packing cubes are another great tool for organizing your belongings. Use them to separate items by type or outfit, making unpacking a breeze.


Packing Strategies and Tips

Packing can be a daunting task, but with the right strategies and tips, it can be made much easier. Start by packing heavy items in small boxes and light items in large boxes. This makes them easier to carry and reduces the risk of injury.

Use the right size box for each item to avoid damage and make the most of your space. Fill any gaps in the boxes with clothing, towels, or packing paper to prevent items from shifting during transit.

Avoid mixing items from different rooms in the same box. This will make unpacking more efficient and help you stay organized. Label each box with the room it’s destined for and a description of its contents to ensure everything ends up in the right place.

Packing cubes can be a lifesaver for organizing smaller items. Use them to separate items by type or outfit, streamlining the unpacking process.

When packing clothes, consider rolling them to minimize wrinkles and save space. For bulky items like jackets or boots, wear them during transit to reduce weight and free up space in your boxes.


Special Care Items

Some items require special care during the moving process. Fragile items, such as dishes, glassware, and artwork, should be wrapped in bubble wrap or packing paper and placed in sturdy boxes. This extra layer of protection will help ensure they arrive intact.

Hanging clothes should be packed in garment bags or hung in a wardrobe box to prevent wrinkles and creases. This will save you time and effort when you unpack and start organizing your new closet.

Electronics should be packed in their original boxes if possible. If you no longer have the original packaging, wrap them in bubble wrap and place them in sturdy boxes. Be sure to label these boxes as fragile.

Valuables, such as jewelry and important documents, should be kept with you during the move or stored in a safe deposit box. This will give you peace of mind knowing that your most important items are secure.

Perishable items, such as food and plants, should be packed in insulated bags or containers and kept cool during transit. This will help ensure they arrive in good condition and ready to be enjoyed in your new home.

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