All You Need to Know About Moving Boxes
Moving boxes are just the same size and shape as regular shipping boxes, but there are some especially thick heavy-duty packing boxes typically applied to more rigorous packing needs. So the biggest question people have when packing is whether to seek out regular shipping boxes from local stores, reuse packing boxes from friends and family that have recently moved or buy new ones for the move.
The answer for your specific situation will begin with considering the needs you have and the costs of boxes. For example, if you have a great deal of fragile and highly valuable items that you don’t want damaged in any way, you may want to consider the added safety of using brand new boxes. As you will see, special items may also benefit from packing boxes with dedicated designs.
Gaylord Boxes share a few things to keep in mind when purchasing moving boxes.
Don’t Overpack
The most important thing to keep in mind when you are packing is to never overload your boxes. No box should weigh over 50 pounds and this can even be too much if you are planning to move boxes yourself. Make sure you are able to lift, carry shift positions and gently place each box down without having to hurry. If you can’t it’s too heavy and some things should be placed in another box. But as a rule of thumb, 50 lbs. (22.67kg) is the best weight.
Different Sizes
1.5 cubic foot (16 by 12 1/2 by 12 1/2 inches) — this is one of the most common types of boxes and can easily carry as much as 60 lbs. Still, you should aim for an average weight of 50 lbs. a box. This is the perfect box for packing plates, appliances, kitchen items, shades, lamps and other small fragile items.
3.0 cubic foot (18 by 18 by 16 inches) — with a capacity of 65 pounds, this moving box is the right option for pots and pans, clothing and electronics.
4.5 cubic foot (18 by 18 by 24 inches) — 65-pound capacity makes this the right box for larger lamps and kitchen appliances.
6.0 cubic foot (22 by 22 by 21 1/2 inches) — at a 70-pound capacity this large box is the right option for protecting large fragile items like bedding and pillows as well as large toys, kitchen appliances and cushions.
6.1 cubic foot (24 by 18 by 24 inches) — this is another great option for carrying larger options that needs special treatment. Such as objects that don’t fit perfectly in the 6.0 cubic foot moving box.
Wardrobe Boxes
Hanging wardrobe box — these come in three different sizes (large, medium and small) and all feature the metal bar at the top that can support the hangers your finer fabrics will be hung. These are the best options for the clothing that you can’t fold up because this can damage some fabrics. These special boxes are also used to transport chandeliers, especially ornate crystal windchimes and other special handing items.
Lay down wardrobe (32 by 19 7/8 by 9 inches) —this is a box like a dresser drawer and is perfect for those items that will survive a one time fold over. Just be sure to not overpack this box as this can cause the very damage you are trying to avoid.
Other Types
Picture and/or mirror boxes — these telescoping boxes can be attached to others to provide the perfect fit for all types of boxes. Mirror boxes are the best choice for moving ornate mirrors and pictures. Remember that bubble wrap is a good idea to use in addition to the protective box.
Dish packs — these are the right thing for glasses, liquor bottles, wine bottles and other fragile glass items. Be sure that any liquids are safely sealed and secure against any possible spillage before transport.
Mattress box —This is not always necessary as most movers will wrap mattresses in plastic wrap before shipping them out. But if you will be storing your mattress for a while in questionable storage locations this can provide extra protection against unforeseeable circumstances.