Books might hold stories, but they also have their own tales to tell. Figuring out how to pack books for moving can be quite the story in itself. Whether it’s a beloved novel or a hefty textbook, keeping these treasures safe is the ultimate goal. So, as you turn the next page, here’s how to make sure the books get the happy ending they deserve.
On average, Americans get through about 12 books a year. What about you? Are you a speed reader or do you like to savor each page slowly?
Whether you’re a casual reader or a hardcore bibliophile, the charm of a good book is undeniable.
They look great on shelves, too, showing off personality and taste.
But here’s the thing – when it’s time to move, that lovingly curated library can start to look more like a heavyweight burden. Suddenly, even paperbacks start to weigh a ton. It’s easy to see them multiplying like rabbits as you start pulling them off the shelves.
Because of that, the first step should be figuring out what to get rid of. Start by sorting through the collection and deciding which ones you truly love and can’t live without. Keep only the gems, and sell or donate the rest. This way, you’ll lighten the load and ensure only favorite stories make the interstate move with you.
Selling valuable editions you no longer need can be a great way to add some muscle to the relocation budget. However, if you want to give them a chance to continue their story with someone new, plenty of charities can take them off your hands. Goodwill, for instance, is a fantastic option. Stories are meant to be shared, and you’ll also lighten the load – it’s a win-win situation all around!
No matter what you’re boxing up, organizing packing can make or break the whole ordeal. The same goes for books, too! While around 70% of Americans own less than a hundred books, getting them off the shelves can quickly add to the relocation stress you’re probably already experiencing.
So, before you start packing, take a moment to sort the collection into different categories. This will set the stage for efficient packaging, but the unpacking process will also be easier. Plus, it adds a touch of organization to all of that literary chaos, which is always a good thing. Here are some fun ways you can do it:
It’s oddly satisfying to see the collection neatly categorized, ready for its journey to a new shelf. You might even discover some forgotten gems hidden among the stacks! And who knows, the act of organizing might just reignite the passion you have for reading, inspiring you to dive into a book or two immediately after the move.
Figuring out how to pack books in boxes may seem straightforward, but it requires the right packaging materials to keep the collection safe and sound. First up, you’ll need sturdy boxes. For this, it’s best to opt for smaller boxes for books. This is because they can be deceptively heavy, and packing too many in a large box can quickly turn into a lifting challenge.
Next, you’ll need packing paper or bubble wrap to provide cushioning, and lastly, don’t forget the tape. Lots of it. You’ll need to seal those boxes up tight, like the library’s own Fort Knox, ensuring they stay secure throughout the move.
Paperbacks are more susceptible to bending and creasing, so it’s essential to go that extra mile when protecting them for the journey ahead. Wrap each book in bubble wrap to create a protective cocoon around it. This extra layer of padding will help prevent any damage during transit, making sure the paperbacks arrive in pristine condition.
Once you have all the right supplies in hand, it’s time to dive head-first into wrapping up your library. Here’s a step-by-step guide to make sure every book is ready for a safe move.
Get the sturdy, smaller boxes ready. Make sure to reinforce the bottom with extra tape, creating a strong seal that will hold up under the weight of the books. Line the bottom of each box with crumpled packing paper or bubble wrap for extra cushioning. Think of it as the red carpet for the collection, ensuring it gets the VIP treatment it deserves.
When stacking the collection, whether vertically or horizontally, make sure to switch up the sides to alternate between bound edges. This will prevent the box contents from shifting, as the weight is distributed more evenly. Just keep in mind that paperbacks shouldn’t be placed bound edge up. They’re simply too flimsy to support that position, especially during a long, bumpy ride in the moving truck.
For those larger, coffee-table volumes, you should lay them flat in the box. This helps prevent warping and makes the most out of the box space. You can use it as a stable base on which you stack smaller, lighter books, keeping everything nice and secure.
Once everything is in the box, fill any gaps with more packing paper. Together with the previous steps, this helps prevent movement, which can protect the volumes from damage. If you don’t have enough packing paper, you can use old newspapers, soft clothes, or even towels. Don’t overlook this important step – it could cost you some damaged corners or bent pages once all of this is done.
Last but not least, seal the boxes with plenty of tape to make sure they stay closed. Label each box with its contents, book by book. It will be like a GPS for the private library, making unpacking much easier and quicker.
If just the thought of doing this by yourself, on top of handling all other aspects of the move, is already making you feel stressed, why not leave it to the experts? Professional moving services can take care of all the heavy lifting, quite literally. Plus, it frees up the time to focus on other things, like settling into the new space and exploring the neighborhood.
Books have so many stories to tell, but roads do as well. To truly make the most of this adventure, a trusty car should be right by your side. That’s why experienced movers such as USA Auto Transport double as a car shipping company, offering comprehensive services for those with a reason to move.
You can choose between open and enclosed auto transport, depending on the level of protection the four-wheeler needs. Also, there’s terminal-to-terminal car shipping, which is a cheaper option that requires some work from you, and door-to-door auto transport, getting the vehicle right to the new driveway. Shipping cars in the USA has never been this easy – you’d have more trouble trying to finish a book in a week!
Once it’s time to bring a dream library to life, you should first visualize it. Do you see cozy reading nooks with a plush chair and warm lighting? Or maybe sleek, modern shelves showcasing the collection like an art gallery?
Have fun with it! Arrange the collection by genre, color, or even by how much you love them. The sky’s the limit when it comes to organizing a literary haven. All in all, it should reflect your personality and make you excited to dive into the next read.
With the layout planned out, it’s time to get creative with the details. Add some bookends, display a few of the favorite covers facing outwards, or incorporate some plants to give the room a fresh feel. Don’t forget to leave space for those inevitable future purchases – because, let’s be honest, a book lover’s collection is never truly complete.
There you have it – the epic saga of packaging and transporting cherished books. This task shouldn’t be taken lightly – after all, that collection provides a cozy, safe space, no matter where you are. What’s better than that to make you feel at home?
You don’t have to take a reading break just because you’re about to move – let USA Auto Transport handle the rest. Our team can help with more than just a literary collection. Whether it’s transporting your ride in an open trailer or taking care of the heavy lifting, we offer a range of services to make the move as smooth and stress-free as possible. Contact us today and let our professionals take the wheel – all you have to do is settle into the new home and enjoy the next great read!
