A Positively Moving Experience
How to Pack Books for My TriState Area Move
Books are one of the most commonly underestimated items during a move. While they feel sturdy, books are heavy, sensitive to moisture, and easy to damage when packed incorrectly. For moves across New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut, books often travel through traffic, weather changes, and multiple loading points. In this blog entry, the professional TriState area residential moving experts here at Noah’s Ark Moving and Storage will describe how we help our clients protect their collections while keeping boxes safe for lifting and transport.
What are the dangers of transporting books during a move?
- Heavy Weight
Books add weight faster than almost any household item, which increases the risk of boxes falling apart and lifting injuries happening to you.
- Moisture Issues
Paper absorbs humidity and rain exposure during loading, unloading, and transit, which can severely damage books.
- Cover and spine damage
Improper stacking bends spines and warps covers, especially for hardcovers and older books
- Stacking pressure
Overloaded boxes are more likely to collapse when stacked in a moving truck
What are the best packing supplies for books?
Using the correct supplies is essential for protecting books and making the move more efficient. Many book related damages happen because boxes are too large or not reinforced properly. Noah’s Ark Moving and Storage recommends gathering all materials before packing begins to avoid rushed decisions that can damage books.
- Small heavy duty boxes
Smaller boxes help to prevent overpacking and are easier for movers to carry safely
- Packing paper or clean unprinted paper
Paper helps to cushion books without trapping moisture like plastic does
- Strong packing tape
Reinforced tape secures seams and supports the weight inside the box
- Permanent markers
Clear labeling alerts movers that boxes are heavy and need careful handling
- Plastic bin liners if needed
Liners provide an added moisture barrier during rainy or snowy moves
What are some useful book packing techniques?
Proper placement inside the box keeps books stable throughout transport. Professional movers use specific methods to distribute weight and reduce movement during long drives across the TriState area.
- Flat placement for oversized books
Large or heavy books should lie flat to prevent spine separation
- Upright placement for standard books
Books can stand upright with spines against the box wall when packed tightly
- Alternating layers
Mixing flat and upright layers balances weight and minimizes shifting
- Filling empty space
Packing paper fills gaps so books do not slide during transit
- Weight limits per box
Each box should remain liftable by one person to avoid injury
- Clear labeling as heavy
Marking boxes clearly helps movers stack and carry them correctly
Contact Noah’s Ark Moving and Storage Today
Packing books does not have to be overwhelming or risky. Whether you have a small home library or a full office collection, Noah’s Ark Moving and Storage provides professional packing services and expert guidance for TriState area moves. Contact Noah’s Ark Moving and Storage today to schedule your move and let experienced professionals protect your belongings from start to finish.
