Which box?
The best size boxes for moving are small to medium for heavy items, and large for lighter items. Packing your lighter items in larger boxes also means fewer boxes to move!
For example:
Books
Use a small box. If you try to fill a large moving box with books, it will be near impossible for one person to lift, without causing injury.
Bedding and pillows
Use a large box as these items are lighter and will be easier to lift. Pack the heaviest layers (such as feather doonas) at the bottom and lighter layers (such as foam pillows) at the top.
Cans, bottles, and other pantry items
Use small boxes (some of these items can be quite heavy), pack upright and push tightly together. Wrap glass jars and bottles with packing paper or bubble wrap. Use scrunched up paper to plug any gaps, to reduce the risk of the items moving around and breaking.
Plasticware
These items are great for making larger boxes lighter and they don’t need a protective wrapping. Simply place them in the box, shuffle them around so they sit firmly and fit the small containers inside the big containers.
Remember:
- Every fully packed box should be light enough to pick up without straining.
- Each box should be firmly packed, not too tight and not loose. If there is space in your box fill with scrunched up packing paper to prevent internal movement, and possible damage.
- If you're loading the truck yourself, pack your heaviest boxes first, toward the front of the truck, for balance.
- Try to use proper, removal boxes. It will make your task easier, and your items will be safer.
