KEY TAKEAWAYS:
Proper Packing Techniques: Books should be packed in sturdy book boxes (1.5 cubic ft), either stacked flat or spine-first, ensuring they are secured but not packed too tightly to avoid damage during handling.
Protect Valuable Books: For valuable or rare books, wrap them in acid-free paper or bubble wrap, and consider using cardboard to separate them or placing them in a plastic bag to protect from moisture.
Climate Control & Safe Storage: When storing books long-term, use a climate-controlled space to avoid damage from temperature fluctuations and humidity, and avoid overloading boxes to keep the books safe and secure.
Are you in the process of packing your college textbook collection into a storage unit for the summer? Need to learn how to pack books into a box before your next big move? Of all the small objects that you can pack into a box, books seem to be the heaviest. Books are fragile and difficult to keep from being damaged during a move. Bending, tearing, and moisture can all lead to the destruction of your library. When you pack your books, you need to take special care of them so they will survive the move or time in storage.
We’re here to teach you how to pack books into boxes or containers, so your collection stays safe and secure, no matter where you go. Here’s how to get started:
TIPS TO HELP YOU PACK UP YOUR BOOKS FOR STORAGE
It can be tempting to throw all of your books into a box and call it a day. But taking your time and being strategic with your packing techniques is the best way to keep your books protected in storage or a moving truck. Whether you’re storing books temporarily or permanently, here are 10 tips you can use to organize your book collection:
- Use Book Boxes: Books should be packed into book boxes (1.5 cubic ft). Larger boxes can quickly become too heavy to lift. Make sure that the box is in good condition and will hold the weight of your books before you pack them. If you need boxes, you can purchase book boxes from a storage facility or moving company.
- Stack Flat or Spine First: There are a couple of ways you can pack books in a box. They can be packed flat and stacked, spine first, with the paper edges facing up, or standing upright, with their spine against the side of the box.
- Avoid Packing Spines Up: Do not put your books in a box with the spines up (paper edges facing down) or at odd angles, which could cause damage by warping or bending the pages.
- Pack Securely, Not Tightly: Books should be packed securely but not too tightly. Tightly packed books can be damaged when removed.
- Protect Your Valuables: Valuable books should be wrapped in acid-free paper before being placed in the box. You can also place cardboard in between each book to keep the spines straight and to prevent movement. In addition, you can use bubble wrap, foam peanuts, or small paperbacks to line the box, fill empty spaces, and prevent books from shifting. Valuable books can also be placed in a plastic bag to protect them from moisture.
- Avoid Overloading: Remember not to overload the boxes. Book boxes should be packed under 40 pounds. This will ensure that they are easy to lift and the contents are kept safe and secure.
- Label and Secure Boxes: Close the box and securely tape the top and bottom. Clearly label the top and sides so you can identify the box and its contents.
- Avoid Stacking: Do not stack boxes in a moving truck or storage unit unless they are properly secured. Due to the weight of the books, they can cause a lot of damage to themselves or furniture if they fall over.
- Store in a Climate-Controlled Space: If you are planning on storing your books for a long period of time, make sure they are placed in a cool, dry location.
- Downsize and Donate: While you are packing your books, it is a good opportunity to sort through them and decide whether you want to get rid of any. Consider selling some of your books at a garage sale, donating them to charity, or selling them to a secondhand bookstore. If you simply can’t part with them, you can keep them at a storage facility.
AFFORDABLE BOOK STORAGE NEAR YOU
We hope our tips for packing books are a resource you can use to keep your book collection safe and secure in storage. Need a place to safely store your books? No matter the size of your book collection, we have reliable and affordable storage solutions available for short- and long-term leases. Find a location near you today.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT SAFELY STORING BOOKS
Ready to start packing your books for storage? Here’s a brief overview of frequently asked questions about book storage and staying organized.
What is the best way to pack books for moving?
It’s best to pack books into sturdy boxes that are specifically made for heavier items. You’ll also want to avoid larger boxes and instead use small or medium boxes. After you’ve packed the books into the boxes, fill in the empty spaces with packing paper or bubble wrap for extra protection.
How can I protect valuable or rare books during a move?
Yes, valuable books need extra protection. To keep these items safe in transit, you’ll want to wrap valuable books in a layer of bubble wrap before packing them into boxes.
Should I pack books spine-up or paper-edge-up?
Books should always be packed into boxes paper-edge-up. Packing books spine-up can damage the binding or pages, leading to unwanted damage.
How do I label boxes containing books?
Yes, you should always label boxes containing books. Boxes filled with books tend to be heavier than typical moving boxes and need to be placed at the bottom of the stack in a storage unit or moving truck.
What are some storage tips for books in a storage unit?
If you plan to store your books in a storage unit, you’ll want to invest in a climate-controlled solution. Fluctuations in temperature or changes in humidity can cause warping and damage the book’s binding. If you have the budget, you’ll also want to pack the books into plastic containers rather than cardboard boxes to avoid dirt, grime, and mildew.
