How to Choose the Best Moving Boxes
How to Choose the Best Moving Boxes
Not all corrugated moving boxes are the same. Whether you’re packing belongings for a move or preparing items for self storage, choosing the right box can make packing, stacking and transporting your belongings easier.
The best moving box isn’t necessarily the biggest or heaviest box. It’s a box that’s appropriately sized and strong enough for what you plan to put inside it.
Choose the Right Box for the Contents
One of the most common packing mistakes is putting too much weight into a large box.
Use smaller, sturdy boxes for heavier belongings such as books, tools and canned household goods. Medium and large boxes are generally better suited for lighter items such as clothing, linens, lampshades and other bulky belongings.
A box that becomes difficult to lift is probably too heavy, regardless of whether the cardboard can support the weight.
When to Consider Heavy-Duty Moving Boxes
Heavy-duty corrugated boxes can provide additional strength for belongings that need more support during moving or storage.
They may be worth considering when you’re packing heavier items, stacking boxes in a storage unit or transporting belongings over longer distances.
However, a stronger box shouldn’t be used as an excuse to make the box excessively heavy. Keep each packed box at a manageable weight so it can be moved safely.
Don’t Overpack Moving Boxes
Overfilled boxes can bulge, become difficult to stack and put unnecessary pressure on the cardboard and tape.
Leave enough room to close the top properly without forcing it. Use appropriate packing material to fill empty spaces and help keep the contents from shifting during transportation.
Pack Boxes for Stacking
If boxes will be stored for an extended period, think about how they’ll be stacked before you begin packing.
Place heavier, sturdier boxes toward the bottom and lighter boxes above them. Avoid placing a heavy box on top of one containing fragile belongings.
Whenever possible, use boxes of similar sizes together. Uniform boxes generally stack more easily and can help you make better use of the space in your storage unit.
Use Good Packing Tape
A strong box still needs to be properly sealed.
Use packing tape designed for moving and shipping rather than household tape. Secure the bottom before filling the box and reinforce it when necessary.
After packing, seal the top securely.
Label Every Box
Clearly label boxes with their contents and the room where they belong.
If a box contains fragile items, mark it accordingly. Labeling at least two sides can make boxes easier to identify when they’re stacked inside a storage unit.
You may also want to number your boxes and keep a simple inventory, particularly for a large move.
New Moving Boxes vs. Used Boxes
Reusing boxes can save money, but inspect them carefully before packing.
Avoid boxes that are wet, crushed, torn or weakened from previous use. Boxes originally used for food may also have stains, odors or residue that you don’t want around stored belongings.
For heavier, fragile or valuable belongings, a new moving box may provide a better packing option.
Moving Boxes and Packing Supplies in San Antonio
Texas Maxi-Mini Self Storage sells moving boxes and packing supplies conveniently on-site at our San Antonio facility.
We carry a variety of box sizes so you can choose boxes appropriate for different household and storage needs. Packing supplies are also available to help prepare your belongings for moving or self storage.
Whether you’re moving across town or simply organizing a storage unit, choosing the right boxes and packing them properly can make the job considerably easier.
