A badly packed box is a liability. It either arrives damaged, or it damages other things when it shifts during transit. The good news: proper packing technique isn't complicated once you know the principles behind it.
The Core Principle: No Empty Space
Empty space inside a box is the enemy. When there's room to move, items shift, knock against each other, and break. Every box you pack should be full enough that when you close the lid, the contents don't move when you shake it gently. Fill any gaps with packing paper, bubble wrap, or clothing.
Heavy on the Bottom, Light on Top
This applies both within each box and to how boxes are stacked. Put books, tools, and other dense items on the bottom. Layer lighter items — linens, clothing, paper goods — on top. Never stack a heavy box on top of a light one.
Use the Right Size Box
- Small boxes (1.5 cu ft): books, canned goods, tools, anything heavy
- Medium boxes (3 cu ft): kitchen items, toys, small appliances
- Large boxes (4.5 cu ft): lightweight items only — pillows, bedding, lampshades
Overpacking a large box with books is one of the most common mistakes. Boxes should be liftable by one person. If it takes two, it's too heavy.
Wrapping Fragile Items
Wrap each fragile item individually in packing paper — not just bubble wrap grouped together. The goal is to prevent any two hard surfaces from touching. Plates go vertically (like records), not flat. Glasses and mugs get paper stuffed inside them in addition to the exterior wrap.
Mark every box containing fragile items on all four sides and the top — not just once. Movers can see the label from any direction when it's stacked.
Seal Boxes Properly
Use at least three strips of packing tape on the bottom seam: one down the center and one along each edge. The same for the top. Boxes that fail during a move almost always fail at the seams.
Label Strategically
Write both the destination room and the contents. "Master Bedroom — Winter Clothes" is genuinely useful. "Box 14" is not. Consider color-coding boxes by room with colored tape — it speeds up delivery significantly and movers can direct boxes to the right room at a glance.
Pack an "Open First" Box
This box — often a clear plastic bin, not cardboard — contains everything you'll need in the first 24 hours: coffee maker, a few mugs, toilet paper, soap, one set of sheets, and basic tools like a box cutter and screwdriver. Load it last so it comes off the truck first.
If packing feels overwhelming, we offer professional packing services. Our team can pack your entire home or just the fragile items — whatever makes sense for your situation. Get a free quote.