Moving Boxes
Quality moving boxes are important to having a good move. You don't want to use flimsy boxes from the grocery store or old boxes you have laying around the house when it comes to moving. Your boxes get banged around a bit and need to be stacked in the moving van, so it's important to use sturdy boxes designed specifically for moving your household items. Therefore, securing the proper type and quantity of moving boxes is an important part of your list of moving supplies to buy before you start packing.
Moving companies may refuse to handle some of your boxes if the cartons are in bad shape. Additionally, movers typically don't take responsibility for damage to the content of boxes that the movers themselves didn't pack unless the entire carton is damaged.
You can purchase moving boxes online, from your local self-service moving truck rental company, or from a California mover.
Additionally, some movers will have used boxes on hand that you can buy cheap that are still in pretty good condition. Use moving boxes that were designed for that purpose are often a better choice than new boxes that weren't designed for moving.
Moving boxes you buy from a moving supplies retailer usually have a weight rating stamped on the bottom of each box. The rating is there for a purpose - don't exceed the weight rating.
Different sizes and types of boxes are available for moving. Some moving boxes have a specific purpose, such as wardrobe boxes or dish packs. Here's a look at some of the different type of special-purpose moving boxes available:
- Mirror cartons - These boxes can be custom built to fit just about any odd-sized object. The boxes are sold in pieces, which you then assemble around the item for a custom fit. Use extra padding, such as bubble wrap or cardboard for cushioning between the item and the box. Use mirror cartons for mirrors, artwork and other odd-shaped items that need good protection and remember to use plenty of tape so the box is securely pieced together into a single box.
- Book boxes - These small cardboard boxes are handy not only for books but are useful for a number of small, heavy weight and fragile items you want to move safely and conveniently. They're designed small so they don't get so heavy that they're difficult to lift, so don't overload them.
- Wardrobes - These handy upright boxes have a bar you can insert across the top portion of the box that you can use for hanging clothes. The bar also gives the box some added tensile strength for good protection. In addition to clothes, they're handy for packing taller items that wouldn't otherwise fit inside a box. A nice feature is that they're designed for a two-man carry as they have handles on each side of the box. Use extra space at the bottom of the box for packing shoes, belts, purses and other accessories quickly. It's also not a bad idea to have a few wardrobe boxes for the garage to make moving shovels, brooms and other tall garden and shop items easy to box up.
- Dish packs - Dish packs are a deeper and stronger than most all-purpose moving boxes and they have extra cushioning built-in, so they're ideal for protecting glassware and dishes. Insert dividers your can use for separating glasses and stemware are often available free or at extra cost for better packing protection.
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Packing Moving Boxes
A good packing job using quality moving boxes and other good quality moving supplies is essential to prevent damage to your household goods and can make the packing chores a more pleasant experience.
Our Packing Boxes page has some great tips for constructing and packing your moving boxes.
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