3 Tips For Packing Books

If you are an avid reader who has an extensive collection of books, moving can be a challenge. A few books are easily moved, but more than a few can quickly put a strain on you and your family. Here are some tips to help ensure your books arrive safely and without causing injury to anyone. 

Cut Down Your Collection

Moving companies typically charge according to weight and time during a move. Numerous boxes of books can only add to your moving expenses. Although you might be reluctant to, review your collection and remove those you no longer need or want. 

Instead of tossing the books, you can donate them to a local library, school, or other charitable organization. In addition to saving on moving expenses, you can also get a charitable donation deduction at tax time.

Prepare the Books for Packing

Depending on the books that you own, just placing them in a cardboard box might not be the best way to protect them in the move. High value books need to be wrapped before they are packed. You can use kraft brown wrapping paper to cover the books. Bubble wrap is also effective in keeping the books safe. 

If you are planning to store some of the books in a storage unit, separate those from the books going to your new home. By packing them separately now, you can avoid confusion later when it is time to unpack.

Choose the Right Boxes and Correctly Stack Them

One of the biggest mistakes you can make is to use large boxes to store your books. Remember, as you pack the books into the boxes, they become more difficult to pick up and carry. The boxes are also at a greater risk of breaking at the bottom. 

To avoid injury to yourself and the books, use smaller boxes. It might take more boxes to pack up your books, but you do not have to worry about straining your back or the books falling out and getting damaged. 

Once you have the right boxes, you can start to place the books inside of them. The books can be either placed lying down in the boxes or standing upright. The most important thing to remember is that the books should not be crammed into the boxes or angled to fit. 

You can go an extra step to protect your books by filling the empty spaces in the boxes with foam chips. The chips will help to keep the books in place and avoid damage. You can go to websites online to find out more moving tips.