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Smart Tips For Your Next Move

Tips For Packing Your Moving Boxes Correctly

24 February 2017

Nevaeh Simmmons

If you have decided to invest in professional moving services, then you may be thrilled that all you need to do is pack a few boxes. While this is likely true, incorrect box packing can lead to some serious issues and catastrophes. It may seem simple, but there are a few tips that you can use to make sure that your boxes are packed the right way.

Opt For The Right Boxes

The first step in making sure your boxes are packed correctly is to purchase the right boxes. There are many types of boxes you can buy, with a variety of different features. The most basic feature is the style of the box. Carton, rigid, and corrugated boxes are the three main types. While cartons can work well to hold smaller and more fragile things and rigid boxes are a good choice as long-term keepsake containers, corrugated boxes are the most inexpensive and versatile moving boxes. 

Corrugated boxes are made to fold or close in different ways. The most common boxes are slotted varieties that are solid along the sides of the box and can be folded to close the open top and bottom. These boxes are ideal for lighter loads as long you carefully tape the bottom of the box. However, heavier items should be placed in boxes with a solid bottom. Telescope boxes and folder boxes both work well. 

Folder boxes feature a solid bottom and open sides that fold up to create the box. The top opening has a flap that can be secured by folding in a tab or by taping the flap down. Telescope boxes are actually two separate boxes. Basically, the container is one folded box and the top lid is another one. These boxes have two separate pieces, but both pieces are strong, secure, and able to withstand a great deal of weight and stress.

The last box feature you should consider is the thickness of the corrugated sections of the container. Single-walled boxes are an option and a good choice for general moving, but double-walled varieties can be found as well. These boxes have two thick walls of corrugated material along each box edge. Triple-walled boxes can be found as well, but they are rarely needed unless your belongings are extremely heavy. 

Pad The Boxes

When packing your boxes, it is wise to wrap all of your things in bubble wrap, paper, or another type of packing material. It is also a good idea to add protection to the box itself. This will keep the box from rattling against your packed belongings once they are placed in the box. If the box is dropped or otherwise stressed, this can keep your things from breaking. 

Adding a layer against the bottom and the sides of the box before packing it can offer the best cushioning. Cut pieces of bubble wrap and place them along the edges of the box. Place the wrap with the bubbles face down. This is similar to the way that objects should be packed, with the bubbles towards the object being protected. 

If you decide to use packing peanuts, then a one-half to one-inch layer will work well. For delicate and fragile objects, purchase the figure-8 type of peanuts. Make sure to buy the expanded polystyrene peanuts as well, because they are recyclable. Recycling your packing materials is a good way to move while being environmentally conscious at the same time. If you don't mind spending a bit more money, then biodegradable peanuts made from starch are an option too. 

Packaged air is another type of packing material you can use on the bottom of your boxes. You can buy the bags packed with air at your local moving supply store. 

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