What is the best way to pack books?

The Best Way to Pack Books for a Move

Packing books requires careful consideration due to their weight and potential for damage. Proper packing protects the books and makes the moving process safer and more efficient for anyone handling the boxes.

Selecting the Right Boxes

The most crucial step is choosing appropriate boxes. Books are deceptively heavy, so resist the urge to use large boxes. Small or medium-sized boxes are ideal. Specialist 'book boxes' or 'archive boxes' are often available and are designed for this weight. Using strong, double-walled boxes is highly recommended to prevent breakages during transit.

A common mistake is filling a large box entirely with books, making it excessively heavy. This can lead to the box splitting, damage to the contents, or injury for those lifting it. Mix books with lighter items in larger boxes if necessary, but never solely fill a large box with heavy tomes.

Packing Techniques for Protection

• Hardback Books: Pack hardback books flat or spine down. Packing them flat prevents the covers from warping. Placing them spine down protects the pages and covers from damage during movement. Avoid packing them with the spine facing upwards, as this can damage the spine and binding.
• Paperback Books: Paperback books are best packed flat or, if space allows, spine down. If packed upright, ensure they are tightly packed to prevent movement, which can bend or tear covers.
• Alternating Direction: For a stable and even load, pack books in alternate directions where possible. This distributes weight more evenly and prevents leaning within the box.
• Delicate or Valuable Books: Wrap individual valuable or antique books in packing paper or bubble wrap before placing them in the box. Consider placing a layer of bubble wrap at the bottom and top of the box for added cushioning. For particularly rare items, specialist packing services may be advisable.
• Filling Gaps: Once books are packed, fill any remaining gaps in the box with crumpled packing paper, old towels, or even soft clothing. This prevents the books from shifting during transit and reduces the risk of damage.

Managing Weight and Box Filling

Each box of books should be a manageable weight for one person to lift safely. As a general guide, a small book box should not exceed 15-20kg. If a box feels too heavy, remove some books and add lighter items or start another box. Overfilled boxes are not only a hazard but can also slow down the loading and unloading process significantly.

For items going into long-term storage, ensure books are completely dry and consider adding silica gel packets to prevent moisture build-up, especially for comics or collectables.

Labelling Your Boxes

Label each box clearly on at least two sides with its contents ("Books - Living Room" or "Books - Study") and the destination room in the new property. This helps movers place boxes in the correct rooms, saving time and effort during unpacking. Numbering boxes is also a good practice, allowing for a quick inventory check upon arrival.

After the Move

Once the books have reached their new home, unpacking them can be a satisfying task. Remember to consider what should I do with empty moving boxes afterwards; many can be reused, resold, or recycled.