The Supermarket Box

Many individuals call their local supermarket and ask them if they can put boxes aside for them because they are moving. What happens is the mover finds that there are more little boxes than big boxes when they pick them up. Another thing to consider is the fact that all of these boxes have been used to ship items before and have now been broken down. This means you have to tape them back together over top of the old tape that was cut through when the employees were breaking them down. This can actually interfere with how well the bottom of the box comes together when you are taping it back together.

Supermarket boxes also consist of cardboard durability that can vary. It can be somewhat hard to determine how much weight a box can actually hold and, with all of the small boxes, you're risking having to make more trips while you move.

The Moving Box

Moving supply stores sell moving boxes that are meant just for moving. They are durable so that your belongings are protected and they come in the sizes you need. You do have the option to choose from new boxes or used boxes. Used boxes are going to be cheaper, of course. However, you have to ask yourself if you want boxes someone else has used before. If you don't have a problem with that, then you can go for the used box.

Here are three things you want to look for in a moving box:

• The size: You may need different sizes for different things. If you have fragile items, you don't want to stack too many of them on top of each other. However, books and other unbreakable items can be stacked until a comfortable weight is reached within the box.

• Weight: It is important that you evaluate the weight that the box is capable of holding. This is something a supermarket box won't tell you. You are safer knowing the weight because you then know how much you can put inside the box.

• Type: There are different types of boxes such as dish boxes and wardrobe boxes. These boxes are specially designed to better protect your belongings. By moving items in boxes that are especially made for those items, you are reducing the chances of damage.

About Moving Boxes:

As trivial as it sounds, you will want to do some research about moving boxes before you pack. If you are organized about your process, you will avoid a number of headaches that accompany the moving process. Ensuring that your moving boxes are strong and the right size for your particular move is imperative. It is also important that you understand the difference between boxes used for light-weight storage and boxes needed for actual moving.

Moving Box Strength:

Box strength is probably the key element to moving boxes. It is important that moving boxes be able to carry great amounts of weight. Most on-line retailers who sell moving boxes ensure that their boxes carry up to 200lbs (or 32 ECT.) Boxes purchased from a retailer should have a seal printed on them somewhere indicating how much weight they can carry. Just because a box is large in size doesn’t mean that it can carry extra weight. Be sure to check the seal before packing anything so that you know how to best strategize.

Moving Box Size:

Moving box size is also important. Often times a retailer will send you specialized boxes for certain things, such as kitchen appliances, stereo equipment, or clothing. These boxes will usually be of the necessary size for your exact needs. Generally, boxes are smaller and more manageable than the typical boxes moving men use, because most individuals are self-movers. The number one cause of damage occurs because a box is not packed fully enough and contents shift during the move. With smaller, more manageable boxes you are encouraged to fill the boxes to the very brim.

How Many Boxes Will You Need?

This is a frequently asked question and really, it’s something you must assess based on the amount of possessions you have. It is suggested that you go through each room of your house and mentally tally up the things you will need to pack and how much space they will take up in the long run. Retailers have excellent packages to help you gauge how many boxes you will need. These packages are tailored specifically, i.e. a 1-2 Bedroom Kit has enough boxes (about 60 or so, give or take) to nicely pack up a 1-2 bedroom space.

Specialized Boxes:

Many retailers offer great specialized boxes that are tailored for specific items. For instance, there are handy wardrobe boxes that include hanging bars for your convenience. This way, you simply transfer your clothes to the wardrobe box without having to systematically fold every piece of clothing that you have. Simple as that! There are also Glass pack kits and cell kits (often used for wine glasses or other breakables.)  Specialized electronic boxes come in handy for packing televisions, microwaves, toaster ovens, lamps, etc.