Alright, let’s get it out of the way and chat about something we all love to hate: packing boxes. Moving house? Decluttering your flat? Trying to clear out that cupboard under the stairs? Knowing how to pack properly can save you a world of pain and broken items.
So get ready to show the world your impressive box-packing skills with our impressively comprehensive guide!
Choosing the Right Box Type
First things first, there are no one-size-fits-all boxes. It’s a myth; it’s harmful propaganda, and we won’t hear any more talk of it. You wouldn’t try to fit an elephant into a matchbox, would you? Here’s a quick guide on the various sizes:
- Small boxes: Perfect for heavy items like books, tinned goods, or your collection of pet rocks.
- Medium boxes: Your go-to for most household items.
- 3. Large boxes: Ideal for bulky but light items like duvets or pillows.
- Wardrobe boxes: These tall boys are great for hanging clothes and keeping them crease-free.
Pick Your Packing Supplies
Before you start throwing things into boxes willy-nilly, make sure you’ve got the right tools for the job. Here’s your packing shopping list:
- Packing tape (lots of it)
- Bubble wrap
- Packing paper
- Markers for labelling
- Scissors
- A cup of tea (optional, but highly recommended)
The Best Packing Technique
You’ll find that packing a box is a lot like playing Tetris, without the catchy music and soothing gameplay pings. The goal is to fill every nook and cranny while keeping things secure and in their right space. Start with a layer of crumpled packing paper at the bottom of the box for cushioning (just like you would with Tetris, right?).
For Fragile Items:
- Wrap each item individually in bubble wrap or packing paper.
- Place heavier items at the bottom of the box.
- Fill gaps with packing peanuts or crumpled paper to prevent shifting.
- Add a final layer of padding on top before sealing.
For Non-Fragile Items:
- Place heavier items at the bottom.
- Layer lighter items on top.
- Use clothing, towels, or linens as padding between items.
Remember, a well-packed box should have no empty spaces. If you shake it gently, you shouldn’t hear things rattling abo
Label Your Boxes
Labelling might seem like a schlep and a half, but trust us, it’s a life-saver. Unless you fancy playing out that movie scene where you get to scream, “What’s in the Box?!” grab that marker and get labelling!
- Write the contents of the box on the top and at least one side.
- If applicable, note which room the box belongs in.
- Mark fragile boxes clearly.
- Create an inventory list of all your boxes and their contents.
Packing Specific Items
Some items will need a bit of extra-special attention:
Books:
Pack them flat or with the spine facing the bottom of the box. This prevents damage to the spines. And remember, books are heavy, so use small/medium boxes!
Plates:
Stack them vertically, like records in a box. This makes them less likely to break. Slip a piece of packing paper between each plate for extra protection.
Glasses and Stemware:
Wrap each one individually and place them upright in the box. Use plenty of padding, specifically wrapped around wine glasses’ stems, for added protection.
Electronics:
If possible, pack them in their original boxes. If not, wrap them well and surround them with plenty of padding. And for the love of all that is holy, don’t forget to label these boxes as fragile!
Clothes:
For everyday clothes, you can often leave them in dresser drawers and wrap the entire drawer in plastic. For fancier items, use large/wardrobe boxes to keep them hanging and wrinkle-free
Vacuum Pack Your Stuff
Vacuum packing can be a real space and time saver, especially for bulky items like duvets and winter coats. However, be cautious with delicate fabrics or anything with down filling, as long-term vacuum storage can damage them. Use your judgement, and when in doubt, stick to regular packing methods.
Packing Hacks
- Suitcases with wheels are perfect for transporting heavy items like books.
- Before disassembling electronics, take a photo of how the wires are connected.
- Include items you’ll need immediately upon arrival, like tea bags, a kettle, a toilet roll, and a change of clothes.
- Use clean socks to pack glasses and stemware for extra padding.
- Keep screws and bolts from disassembled furniture in labelled sandwich bags and tape them to the relevant piece of furniture.
Packing Pitfalls
- Overloading boxes with too much stuff
- Using newspaper as packing material (the ink can transfer onto your items)
- Forgetting to empty drawers
- Not allowing enough time for packing (it takes longer than you think)
- Forgetting to label boxes
The Final Steps
Once your box is packed to perfection, it’s time to seal it up. Use strong packing tape and apply it in an H-pattern across all the seams on the bottom, up the sides, and across the top. This makes sure your box stays closed, even if it’s manhandled a bit during the move.
So, put on your favourite playlist, make a brew, and get packing. Your perfectly organised new space is waiting for you! And if all else fails, there’s always the option of hiring professionals. After all, sometimes the best way to pack is to let someone else do it for you. Happy packing and may all your boxes be light and your bubble wrap plentiful!
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