How Do Moving Boxes Work?
- Knowing the types of boxes you need will make packing items for transport that much easier.
Small boxes (1.5 cubic feet), for example, are designed for heavy items such as books or small board games. Less space means that the box is less likely to break or be ripped open by the weight inside. Medium (3.0 cubic feet) boxes are used primarily for small appliances, pots and pans, clothes and shoes. Larger boxes (4.5 and 6.0 cubic feet) are for lightweight, bulky items such as blankets, pillows, towels, linens and lampshades. More specialized boxes, such as those for wardrobes, are designed for use as portable closets. Other specialized boxes might include mirror boxes for framed pictures and mirrors. There are also mattress boxes for moving beds. - Cushioning and layering ensures the protection of your boxes--and their contents. Cut old boxes to create layers for rolling items into a box, or to create dividers within a box. Crush old boxes to create cushioning paper. Use rags or old towels to fill in the gaps around your items. The benefit of using rags over bubble wrap is you have something to dust or clean with immediately after you start unpacking.
- Successful labeling of your boxes will make your move easier, faster, and more effective---both before and after. Label destinations in advance of moving day. Mark down the order in which to unpack boxes. Write content descriptions so that you know what is in your boxes. It is particularly important to label breakables. Use a wide marker for indicating warnings, such as "Fragile" or "This end up." Include a label for each room or area of the house the box needs to be transported to. List the contents on the side of the box, and assign a number to each box. Later, when you start to unpack, you will not need to reorganize which boxes take priority for unpacking at your new location.
