Books are wonderful companions — until it’s time to move them. Anyone who has packed up a personal library knows books are deceptively heavy and easy to damage if not packed correctly. Luckily, with the right supplies and techniques, you can move your collection safely without breaking your back (or your budget).
Step 1: Sort Your Collection
Before you grab a box, decide which books are worth taking. Moving is the perfect opportunity to lighten your load. If you have old textbooks, outdated manuals, or novels you’ll never read again, consider donating them to a local library or charity. The fewer books you pack, the easier and cheaper your move will be.
Step 2: Choose the Right Boxes
This is the most important part. Many people make the mistake of loading books into large boxes, which quickly become too heavy to carry. Instead, use small, sturdy boxes. A box about the size of a banker’s box or 1.5 cubic feet is ideal. Double-check that the seams are reinforced with packing tape.
Step 3: Pack Flat or Spine-Down
To avoid damaging bindings, stack books flat or with their spines facing downward. Never pack books spine-up — this stresses the pages and can cause tearing. Alternate stacking methods to distribute weight evenly.
Step 4: Protect Valuable Editions
If you own rare or sentimental books, wrap them individually in packing paper or bubble wrap. For extra protection, place them in a plastic bag before wrapping to prevent moisture damage.
Step 5: Fill Empty Spaces
Loose books shift around and can bend or tear during the move. Use packing paper, bubble wrap, or even clothing to fill gaps inside each box.
Step 6: Label Clearly
Mark boxes with “Books – Heavy” and note which room they belong in. This way, movers know to handle them with care and won’t stack them on top of fragile boxes.
Additional Tips for Moving Books
- Use rolling suitcases for especially heavy sets. Just be mindful not to overload them.
- Consider e-books. If you’re moving long distance, converting favorite titles to digital versions can cut down on weight.
- Don’t forget kids’ books. Pack children’s favorites separately so they’re easy to access after the move.
Professional movers in Avon CT are used to transporting heavy loads like books. They’ll stack boxes safely in the truck to avoid shifting during transit, keeping your collection in pristine condition.
Final Thoughts
Packing books for moving takes some planning, but the process is simple once you have the right supplies. By decluttering, using small boxes, and protecting rare editions, you’ll make sure your library survives the journey.
