How To Pack Books – Tips From Packing Experts

Packing books seems like an easy task, but our packing experts have shared several tips for you to consider when packing up your book collection.

1. Use a small sturdy box – a box of books can get heavy quickly, so using a smaller but sturdy box can help to distribute the weight.
2. Secure the bottom of the box – Packing tape layered around the box seam and edges can add support to a heavy box of books.
3. Line the box – Create a layer around the covers of your book collection by lining the box with newsprint paper.
4. Organize books by size – Grouping your books by size makes them easier to place in the box while you pack.
5. Wrap rare collections separately – Individually wrap your rare collectibles, and consider whether to move this with you, rather than in a moving van.
6. Pack the box – Place your books in the box on their edge, alternating the bound edges. (See video: How to Pack Books)
7. Fill in any gaps – Use crumpled packing paper to fill in any gaps between the books and box sides.
8. Secure the top of the box – Close and seal the top seam of the box with a couple of layers of packing tape.
9. Label the box – Using a dark, permanent marker, label the sides of your box with the contents.

Packing Books For Long-Distance or Small Moves

Whether you are moving to an apartment in a nearby state or to a five-bedroom house across the country, packing your books is the same in any type of move. If you would prefer not to pack your books yourself (or anything else for that matter), America’s #1 Mover ®, United has packing, unpacking and more services for you to choose from to make your move as stress-free as possible. Our packers are here to help!

Save Money Moving Books

Even the most voracious readers may decide that they don’t want to move their entire book collection to their new home. If you decide there are some books you do not want to pack, consider these options of how to move your books along without having to move them yourself:

• Donate to a school
• Donate to a charity
• Donate to a library
• Pass along to friends, family or neighbors

In some states, book donations to charities, libraries or even non-profit school PTO/PTA groups are tax deductible. Be sure to check with your tax advisor about your specific state tax laws for tax deduction information.