Guide to Selecting the Right Type of Moving Boxes

There is no getting around the fact that moving one’s household from one place to another is a tough job. If you are packing yourself, you are probably doing so to save some money. Even if you are moving yourself, consider the fact that the right moving box may be the difference between your stuff getting there in one piece or in pieces.

Some people prefer to find small sturdy boxes at their local supermarket or liquor store. Others feel they need to invest in different specialized moving boxes. Some are a mix of the two, buying special boxes for pictures, lamps etc and liquor store boxes for books.

Regardless of the approach you take, the goal is the same; to get your stuff to the new home safely.  Take a visual inventory of your household.  What types of household belongings are you moving? Do you have lots of books, pots and pans, large paintings, clothes shoes? What are you planning to donate or give away? Reviewing the contents of your household and what needs to move will go a long way towards helping you decide what moving boxes you will need. Gain an understanding of what is available. There are professional boxes made for specific purposes. 

Box Types

• Kitchen Boxes – A variety of boxes designed for carrying, for instance, packing    boxes for holding glassware, china, and silverware.


• Medium sized boxes – Most of the boxes you use will be medium. You can find these at many supermarkets and liquor stores. These boxes can hold all of your miscellaneous items such as pantry items, toys, pillows, or anything that does not require special packing.


• Large boxes – Good for larger items, like disassembled furniture comforters, large toys.


• Extra-large boxes – For items, such as small furniture, large lamps, and comforter.


• Wardrobe boxes – Wardrobe boxes are made for transporting your hanging clothes. They contain a bar across the top and will keep your clothes from getting too wrinkled.


• File boxes – Used for transporting documents and office supplies.


• Lamp boxes – Designed for moving lamps. Tall and narrow, they will ensure that your lamps are not damaged.


• Picture boxes – Designed for your framed artwork and mirrors, cardboard picture boxes are large, flat, and adjustable.

Obtaining the proper boxes

Decide which boxes you need. Then, contact professional moving companies to obtain the types of boxes you will need to purchase. You can also buy boxes at the offices of many storage unit businesses. Lastly, scour you local supermarkets and liquor stores for boxes.  Start early, competition is fierce.