Moving? 5 Tips for Packing Your Collection of Books

For book lovers, protecting their collection of beloved tomes can be a source of concern during a big move. But you can prepare and pack your books in a way that keeps them safe while also ensuring that they're easier to transport. How? Discover five important tips.

1. Use Small, Sturdy Boxes
One of the most important steps to take when packing groups of books is to choose the right boxes. Unfortunately, the most expedient routes - grabbing any old box or using larger boxes for more volume - are likely to result in failure and even injury as people try to move them.

Instead, choose book boxes carefully to select sturdy, preferably unused boxes or heavy-duty boxes like liquor store boxes. Look for medium-size boxes just large enough to hold oversize books you may have.

2. Choose the Right Position
Should you pack books vertically or flat? In general, flat is best - especially for softcover books or older books that have wear and tear. Standing these either upright or on their sides can warp and push book covers into unwanted shapes. You may be able to pack sturdy hardcover books upright for better use of space, but be sure you don't allow any movement in the box or bend the books.

Does your library include larger coffee table books? You may want to lay these flat in larger boxes underneath other items. This allows more horizontal space without causing any book boxes to be too big for easy carrying. And this spreads out the weight of the book evenly in the larger box.

3. Balance Book Weight
Books are heavy, and they get exponentially heavier when grouped. So think about weight distribution as you pack. Most boxes can hold at least two stacks of books, but try to include both heavier ones and lighter ones to balance the weight. Also, pack books so the weight is even on both halves of the box. Unbalanced boxes can injure people who pick them up and may cause books to slide inside.

Pay attention to the weight of individual books as you stack them as well. The heaviest books should go in first so they form a solid base for lighter books and don't compress others. Fragile or vintage books should go flat on top next to a layer of upper packing material to protect them from any weight.

4. Separate Some Books
Consider adding a layer of packing paper around some books. You might start by lining the inside of the box with packing paper to prevent the covers from sticking to the cardboard. In addition, if you have any concerns about temperature changes or humidity during transit, place packing paper in between books as well. This is particularly important if the books will be stored outside your control between homes.

5. Fill In With Packing Material
Finally, use packing material to fill in empty spaces without adding weight. This prevents movement when boxes are transported and ensures books won't fall open or slide down into a curved position.

Packing material should be available in a variety of types and sizes so you can fit it perfectly into whatever unusual space is left in boxes. Professional materials like packing paper and packing peanuts can be very effective, but consider DIY packing materials you may already have for the move. This includes washcloths, kitchen linens, pillowcases, hand towels, and small pieces of clothing like gloves.

Want more tips for preparing and packing your book collection? Start by consulting with the moving pros at Superior Economy Moving. We have more than 50 years of moving experience and can help you meet whatever challenges your household goods create. Call today to make an appointment or get answers to your questions.