For book lovers, figuring out how to pack books for moving can feel truly daunting. Books are heavy for their size, and true bibliophiles may need to pack hundreds, if not thousands, of them. Where possible, try paring down your collection before packing by letting go of books you no longer use or need, tough as that may be. Keep in mind that moving companies often charge by weight, so shedding extra books can save you money and make your long distance move easier.
Choose the Right Packing Supplies
Packing books starts with the right tools. Choose small to medium-sized boxes (around 1.5 cubic feet) to keep them light enough to lift. Pick new or gently used boxes with strong bottoms to hold the weight. You’ll also need packing tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, and markers for labeling. For delicate or valuable books, grab some acid-free tissue paper to protect pages from wear. Having these supplies ready makes packing a breeze.
Sort and Declutter Your Collection
Before you start packing, take a good look at your collection. Sort books into piles: keep, donate, sell, or gift. It’s hard, but be honest about which ones you’ll actually reread or need in your new space. Decluttering means fewer boxes to pack and unpack, saving you time and effort. Group the books you’re keeping by size or type (like hardcovers or paperbacks) to pack smarter. This also helps you spot which ones need extra care.
Protect Books with Fragile Bindings
Old hardcovers, leather-bound editions, or other books with fragile bindings need extra love. Wrap each one in acid-free tissue paper or bubble wrap to shield the spine and cover. Pack them flat in the box to avoid stress on the binding. If pages are loose, secure the book with a soft, acid-free band before wrapping. Use smaller boxes for these books and fill gaps with packing paper to keep them snug and safe.
Pack Books Strategically to Prevent Damage
How you pack matters as much as what you pack. For most books, lay them flat or place them spine-down to avoid straining bindings. For valuable or old books, wrap each in acid-free tissue or bubble wrap before boxing. Fill empty spaces with packing paper or bubble wrap to stop books from shifting. Keep boxes under 40 pounds for easy lifting. If you pack books upright, make sure they’re snug to stay secure.
Label and Organize Boxes for Easy Unpacking
Good labeling makes unpacking a lot easier. Write the contents (like “Mystery Paperbacks” or “Art Books”) and the room they’ll go in on each box. For big collections, number boxes and keep a list of what’s inside each. This is a lifesaver for rare or sentimental books. Mark boxes with delicate items as Fragile and note which side should face up to keep books safe during transport.
Protect Valuable or Fragile Books
First editions, family heirlooms, or other precious books deserve special care. Wrap them individually in acid-free tissue or bubble wrap and place them in a sturdy, padded box. Don’t mix them with regular books so they get the attention they need. If you can, keep these boxes with you instead of loading them on the truck. Check for mold or pests before packing, as these can spread and ruin other books.
Load and Transport Books Safely
When loading the truck, place book boxes on the floor or stack them carefully so they don’t crush lighter items. Make sure boxes are secure and won’t slide around. For long-distance moves, use a climate-controlled truck to protect books from heat or humidity. Once you arrive, unload book boxes quickly and store them in a cool, dry spot until you’re ready to unpack.
Unpack and Store Books Properly
In your new home, unpack books with care, starting with your favorites or valuable ones. Look for any damage, like bent pages or torn covers, as you go. Shelve books upright on sturdy shelves, and don’t pack them too tightly to avoid stressing bindings. If you’re not setting up your library right away, keep boxes in a dry, climate-controlled spot to prevent mold or warping.
“I moved from America to Japan, leaving most of my books behind in storage. I am surprised by how much this matters to me even three years after the fact. I’m still constantly searching for books in my house only to remember they exist on the other side of the world. My advice is to keep your books close. Next time I move, I’m shelling out whatever the cost is to take my books with me. They’re important tools for writers.” Connor Harrison
Packing your book collection doesn’t have to be a chore. With the right supplies, smart packing, and a little care, your books will make it to your new home in great shape. Need help making your move smooth?
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