When packing your books or magazines, be sure to limit the box size to 1.5 cubic feet in volume. Mover’s book boxes are 16 x 12 3/4 x 12 3/4 inches, the exact size of phonograph records, and they hold 1.5 cubic feet of goods. When filled with books or records these boxes weigh 40 – 45 lbs. Never pack any boxes heavier than that because that’s the maximum that ladies should ever have to carry around and the lady of the house may have to move the box around at some point. Also, when boxes are limited to under 50 lbs. more than one can be carried at a time by each mover if strapped onto their back. Individual boxes much over 50 lbs. will need to be carried by two movers which
How to Pack Books for Moving
Books should not be stood on end in the boxes because that puts pressure on the bindings and can damage the books. Normally, you should place them flat in the box and try to brace them so that they don’t shift around. Fill the box tight with books and/or magazines. Use towels or paper to fill any gaps. Keep in mind though that magazines and newspapers can leave ink residue on book covers, so be careful.
Use 3 strips of tape going from about the center of one side of the box across the middle of its bottom and up to the middle of its other side. Do the same on the top of the box to securely seal it so that the carton won’t break open during the move. Be sure the tape strips each run halfway up the sides of the box and overlap to give extra strength as shown in the picture below. You can also tape the ends of the flaps as done here if you want to, but this is not absolutely necessary.
How to Pack Magazines for Moving
Valuable magazines also should be laid flat in the box. Don’t bend them to fit because they may become permanently creased. Fill the box completely before taping it shut. Leaving empty spaces in a box can cause it to crush and damage its contents when it’s being stacked or carried.
Don’t put fragile items in boxes with books or magazines because the weight of printed materials can damage them.
