A Guide to Finding the Best-Sized Boxes for Moving | Long Distance USA Movers

A Guide to Finding the Best-Sized Boxes for Moving

Are you preparing for relocation? If that is so, the first thing you should do is find the best-sized boxes for moving. Keep in mind that the safety of your belongings should be your number one priority; therefore, you’ll have to purchase adequate cartons for each household item.

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One of the best free tips for successful relocation is to find adequate cartons.

To find the best-sized boxes for moving you should take an inventory of your belongings. After you book cross-country moving services, but before you start packing, make a list of the items you need to move. This will help you determine the number and size of the boxes you need. Proceed with measuring your largest items and choose boxes that are slightly larger than your largest items, so you have room to add packing material. Consider getting some specialty boxes if you have delicate or valuable items.

You Will Need Moving Boxes of Different Sizes

Packing is an essential part of every relocation. That’s why high-quality boxes and packing supplies are among the essential things you have to obtain. Considering the fact that you’ll mostly use cartons, it is good to provide different sizes. In fact, all reliable cross-country movers will suggest you to get as much different sized boxes as possible.

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Small vs. Medium Box

Small boxes are ideal for packing fragile items and heavy stuff. Thanks to their size, they are less likely to break, so they are suitable for tools, toiletries, CDs and DVDs, computer parts, and canned food. Small containers are also an excellent option for delicate and fragile belongings, including small antiques, picture frames, glassware, fine china, and vases. Are you wondering how to pack necklaces? Small cartons are suitable for jewelry, too.

On the other hand, medium-sized cartons are used for almost anything, besides heavy or bulky stuff. Things you can pack into medium containers are small appliances, toys, and electronics. For those who are wondering how to pack pots and pans for moving, the answer is – using medium-sized cartons.

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Kitchen Appliances and Smaller Bedroom Items Go Into Large Boxes

These cartons are perfect for bedroom sets, area rugs, and furniture parts, including disassembled bed frames and table legs. They are also excellent for kitchen appliances. If you are not planning to pack everything, consider finding out how and where you can donate old appliances.

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Cartons come in sizes from 1.5 to 6.1 cubic feet, and each one is suitable for different household supplies.

The Functionality of an Extra Large Size of Boxes for Moving

Bulky, yet, light stuff should be packed into extra-large cartons. This includes blankets, pillows, and comforters. These cartons are also an excellent choice for sports equipment. However, be careful never to overfill a large box, as it is more easily breakable than its smaller counterparts.

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Bulky, but light stuff you have in your home should go into extra-large cartons.

Packing Clothes Requires Wardrobe Boxes

To transport your more formal and expensive clothes, consider purchasing a wardrobe carton. They come in different sizes and contain a metal bar, so it looks like a regular closet. The wardrobe box is ideal for clothes you want to hang, but keep in mind that it’s heavy and can take up a lot of room. Another type is a laid down wardrobe carton, suitable for clothes you like to fold just once. Remember that it can’t withstand heavy stuff, so you should not overstuff it.

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A wardrobe carton is ideal for clothes, and it looks just like a closet in your home.

You’ll Need Adequate Boxes for a Lot of Stuff

Most of your stuff can be packed into regular cartons. However, there are some belongings you should be careful with and use specially designed containers. Therefore, consider finding a store that sells high-quality moving kits, and look for the following carton types:

  • TV box – Made to protect flat-screen TVs, these cartons are a must when purchasing cartons. They can accommodate TVs from 32″ to 70″ and come unassembled so that you can adjust them to the size of your device.
  • Lamp cartons are ideal if you want to transport uniquely shaped or tall items such as lamps safely. These cartons can accommodate items up to 48 inches in height so you can be sure that your beloved stuff will arrive at your new home undamaged.
  • Kitchen box – Thinking about how to pack china for moving, or what you should do when packing dishes? Kitchen cartons are an excellent choice because they come with dividers. All you should do is wrap each item in paper or bubble wrap and then use the dividers to provide extra protection.
  • Mattress carton – These cartons come in various sizes, including cribs, twins, and king-size. Though most long-distance movers will only use plastic bags because they are cheaper, it is good to consider purchasing mattress cartons. Their advantage is that they will protect the mattress from being punctured and, most importantly, save it from outside elements.
  • Mirror and picture box – You can find these cartons in medium and large, and they are ideal for different sized mirrors and artwork. It’s good to know that they come in two parts, and they can be customized, so you don’t have to worry about how to pack a mirror.
  • File/office binder – Made to keep all your documents safe, these double-walled cartons are a great way to transport important yet massive files safely.

As you can see, there are numerous other things you need to store adequately if you want them to arrive undamaged to a new home.

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Don't forget tips regarding purchasing adequate cartons for mirrors, artwork, TV, and lamps.

Choose the Best-Sized Boxes for Moving So That Everything Fits

One of the most stressful things about packing is not knowing if everything you have planned to move is going to fit. To avoid the concern, make sure to create a good plan, choose cartons that most suit your needs, or consider contacting professionals to ask for advice and book long-distance moving services.

How to Calculate Square Feet of a Box – This Is What You Should Know

To make sure you have enough supplies for all your belongings, you might want some actual numbers. To calculate each carton’s square footage, you should measure its length and width. To do so, you’ll need measuring tape or yardstick. When you establish the weight and height, multiply these two dimensions, and you will get the square feet of the measured box. However, if you feel like this is just too much hassle for you, contact professionals from Long-Distance USA Movers. We’ll handle it for you with our efficient long-distance moving services.

Make a Selection of Stuff You Are Moving to Your New Home

Do you regularly use all the stuff you own? If your answer is no, you should consider donating. Giving unused stuff for free is beneficial for you as well. Remember, you should not overpack cartons because you can cause damage to specific items. The maximum weight of each container should be 50 pounds, so you’ll be using fewer supplies. As a bonus, fewer things to pack means less time spent on this tedious task.

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A lot of stuff can share space inside of the carton, but make sure that it's not overpacked.

You Are Ready to Move Across the Country

Now that you know what kind of containers you need, it’s time for shopping. Those who don’t have much time and want to ensure the proper transport of their stuff should consider hiring a reliable long-distance moving company that provides packing services, and if it is necessary, storage services, too. With the help of professional cross-country movers, you will not have to worry about whether all your belongings will be safely delivered to your new home.

That’s precisely what you get if you hire our Long-Distance USA Movers – stress-free relocation and the best wrapping tips and hacks. So, don’t hesitate any longer and contact us for your quote.

Frequently Asked Questions About Best-Sized Boxes for Moving

What size boxes are best for moving?

When it comes to moving, using the right size of boxes can make all the difference. Here are some of the most common sizes of boxes for moving and when to use them:

  • Small boxes (16″ x 12″ x 12″) – Small boxes are great for packing heavier items like books, canned goods, or small appliances. They are easy to carry and stack, and they’re less likely to break under the weight of heavy items.
  • Medium boxes (18″ x 18″ x 16″) – Medium boxes are a good all-purpose box that can be used for a variety of items, such as kitchen supplies, toys, and linens. They are still easy to carry and stack, but they offer more room for larger items.
  • Large boxes (18″ x 18″ x 24″) – Large boxes are best for lightweight items like pillows, comforters, or bulky clothing. They are not recommended for heavy items as they can become too heavy and difficult to carry.
  • Extra-large boxes (24″ x 18″ x 24″) – Extra-large boxes are great for lighter, bulky items like bedding, comforters, or lampshades. They are not recommended for heavier items, as they can become too heavy to carry safely.

Can I use different box sizes for different items?

Yes, it’s a good idea to use different box sizes for different items when packing for a move. Different items have different weights and sizes, so using the appropriate box size can help prevent damage to your belongings during transport.

 

How many items can I fit in a box of a specific size?

he number of items you can fit in a box of a specific size depends on the size and weight of the items you are packing. Here are some general guidelines to help you estimate how many items you can fit in a box of a specific size:

  • Small boxes can typically hold 20-30 books, or 30-40 records, or small appliances and kitchen items like canned goods, pots, and pans.
  • Medium boxes can hold 3-5 large blankets or comforters, or 12-15 sweaters, or 12-15 pairs of shoes.
  • Large boxes can store 10-12 pillows or lampshades, or 15-20 large toys, or 20-25 sweaters.
  • Extra-large boxes can hold 2-3 large comforters or 30-35 large toys, or 30-40 pairs of shoes.

Are there any items that should always be packed in a specific box size?

There are some items that should always be packed in a specific box size to ensure their safety during transport. Here are some examples:

  • Wardrobe boxes – These boxes are specifically designed for hanging clothes, such as dresses, suits, and coats. Wardrobe boxes have a metal bar across the top that allows you to hang your clothes inside without wrinkling them.
  • Dish boxes – These have special dividers inside that are designed to keep dishes and glassware from touching and breaking during transport.
  • Mirror and picture boxes – These boxes are designed to fit mirrors, paintings, and other large, flat items. They have adjustable sizes and are made of heavy-duty cardboard to protect the items from damage.
  • Electronics boxes – Get the containers that are designed to fit electronic devices, such as computers, TVs, and sound systems. They have extra padding and cushioning to protect the delicate components inside.
  • Lamp boxes – These are specifically designed to fit lamps and lampshades. They are long and narrow, with extra padding at the ends to protect the delicate parts of the lamp.

Where can I find the best-sized boxes for moving?

There are several places where you can find the best-sized containers such as online retailers, moving supply stores, local hardware or home improvement stores, and grocery stores.

Can I reuse boxes that I already have for moving?

Yes, you can reuse boxes that you already have for relocation, but it’s important to ensure that they are sturdy and in good condition before using them. Make sure the box is sturdy and not damaged and remove any old labels.

How many boxes will I need for my move?

The number of boxes you will need for your move will depend on several factors, including the size of your home, the number of belongings you have, and the types of items you need to pack. For example, for a studio or 1-bedroom apartment you will need approximately 20-30 boxes.

Are there any special considerations when packing fragile items in boxes of a certain size?

Yes, there are special considerations when packing fragile items in boxes of a certain size. Fragile items require extra care when packing and transporting to ensure they don’t get damaged during the move.

 

Should I use small or large boxes for heavier items?

It’s generally recommended to use smaller boxes for heavier items. This is because smaller boxes are more manageable and easier to lift, especially when they contain heavy items. Large boxes can become too heavy when filled with heavy items, which can make them difficult to move and increase the risk of injury.

 

How can I save money on boxes for my move?

Cross-country moving can be an expensive process, but there are several ways you can save money on boxes for your move. Here are some tips:

  • Ask friends and family – Ask friends, family, and coworkers if they have any boxes you can use. Many people have extra boxes from recent moves or deliveries that they are happy to give away.
  • Check local businesses – Check with local businesses like grocery stores, liquor stores, or department stores to see if they have any extra boxes they could give you.
  • Use reusable bags – Instead of using boxes, consider using reusable bags or totes to pack some of your belongings. This can save you money on boxes and help reduce waste.
Hannah Michaelson

Hannah is a freelance relocation writer from NYC that has become an expert on packing and unpacking.


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