When it comes time to embark on a move, there are many things to learn along the way. And perhaps one of the most underrated pieces of knowledge that independent movers neglect is how to properly fold their moving boxes.
Key Takeaways
- Collecting essential materials like moving boxes and packing tape is the first step to folding your boxes the right way
- Fold the top flaps down, and then assemble and tape up the bottom flaps
- Turn your box upright, and pack in your fragile or breakable items with plenty of packing paper and plastic wrap
It may seem simple at first glance, or it could appear to be an enormous mountain to climb. Either way, it’s not something to be underestimated or intimidated by. And that’s why we’re here!
So here are all the things you need to know about moving boxes for your upcoming adventure.
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How To Fold Boxes For Moving
To some people, a moving box can seem like an unassuming piece of cardboard. If that sounds like you, it’s essential not to underestimate the value of properly assessing your moving box assembly.
To the rest of the population, knowing where to begin with these cardboard squares can seem confusing. But, regardless of who you are, you need to know the correct way to fold your moving boxes.
So here is our step-by-step guide on how to assemble moving boxes the right way.
Step #1: Collect Your Materials
Let’s take a step back to middle school science class when our experiment procedures started with “gather materials.”
You can’t properly fold and assemble your cardboard boxes without first getting the basics. There are three essential items you’ll need:
- Cardboard moving boxes
- Packing tape
- Utility knife
If you hire a trusted moving company, they’ll usually have all the materials to do it themselves. But if you’re looking to handle your boxes solo, you can find these materials online or at any local hardware or moving store.
Step #2: Find The Way “Up”
All moving boxes come flat. At first glance, it could look like a couple of pieces of cardboard lying side-by-side.
Sit your flattened box upright. There should be some symbol or lettering that indicates which side of the box is the top and which side is the bottom. And each side will have small cardboard tabs connecting the top flaps and the bottom flaps.
With your flattened box upright, fold the top flaps down against the box. The cardboard connector tabs should stay on and will keep the tabs together.
Step #3: Make Your Flattened Box 3D
Open the box with the top flaps against the box to make it a 3D square. The top flaps will stay against the box.
Step #4: Flip It Upside Down
Now, flip your box so it is upside down. The top of the box should be on the floor.
It’s time to take care of the bottom flaps. With the box upside down, these bottom flaps should be facing up.
Step #5: Fold The Bottom Flaps
Now it’s time to fold the bottom flaps down. First, fold the two small flaps inwards. Then fold the two larger flaps on top of those small flaps.
Make sure the flaps connect comfortably in the middle. And be sure to make them snug! They’ll be more sturdy and stable that way.
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Step #6: Tape It Up!
Now comes the fun part. It’s time to tape your box securely so it can live up to its moving potential!
There are a few different ways to tape moving boxes. But not all of them provide the structural integrity needed for a successful and safe move.
Especially if you are using old or second-hand moving boxes, you might need to go a little heavier on the tape to make up for the weakened walls of the old boxes.
And if you’re planning on packing heavy, delicate, or valuable items, don’t be frugal with your tape usage. It’s worth using extra packing tape to give security to easily breakable items!
To tape your box, start by taping over the middle of the bottom flaps to secure them where they are. Then, add one more layer of tape on both sides of the center if you want more support. Of course, if you’re packing your box full of Kleenex or pillows, you might not need to do more than just the first piece of tape.
By taping down the creases and places where the flaps meet the box, you can ensure that the box won’t end up sagging anywhere due to any weight it’s carrying. Of course, add more tape if it gives you more peace of mind.
At the end of the day, they’re your moving boxes! So if you want to cover the entire cardboard box in packing tape, feel free to do so. Though, we wouldn’t recommend it.
Step #7: Pack Your Moving Box (The Right Way)
Folding boxes might seem like a journey in and of itself. But now that our boxes are folded, taped up, and ready to go, it’s time to begin packing them!
But before you start throwing your items haphazardly into your cardboard box, take a step back. These are your personal belongings, and not packing them properly can lead to a disastrous moving experience.
We’ll let you know some of our favorite tips for packing cardboard moving boxes correctly. Because here at The Movers Moving And Storage, we definitely know a thing or two about moving.
We’ve been trusted moving professionals for over forty years. There’s a reason why all across Florida, for years, families and people like you have trusted us with their entire life’s belongings. We make moving easy, so you can focus on settling into your new home.
Whether you’re looking for a moving company to help you through the difficult journey or trying to venture out on your own, it’s a good idea to know how to pack your moving boxes properly.
So, here’s how!
The Best Tips On How To Pack A Moving Box
Not properly packing each and every moving box is a big mistake many newbie movers make. Remember, you’re protecting the future of your valued personal belongings!
Moving is stressful enough. So don’t add in the tragedy of arriving at your new home to find out all of your grandma’s precious china shattered in the move.
Wondering where to begin? Keep reading, and we’ll let you know.
Materials You Should Always Have On Hand
The best moving box packers have the materials on hand necessary to protect their items. Especially for delicate or fragile items, you’ll need to get some specific materials to ensure a safe move.
Make sure you have these basics:
- Packing paper
- Plastic wrap
- Color coding labels and/or markers
And, of course, make sure you have enough cardboard boxes to complete the job!
Packing Your Boxes Like A Pro
For packing fragile items or breakables, use plenty of packing paper and plastic wrap to keep them snug, secure, and protected. You don’t want to go light on the packing paper and then find out later that something precious or expensive was unfortunately shattered in the move.
You should always place heavy or bulky items on the bottom of a box, never on top. Don’t overpack big boxes of heavy items like kitchen appliances or books. It’s best to put heavier items in smaller cardboard boxes to prevent overloading them with too much weight.
Most people can’t pack all their belongings in one day and make a move before the sun goes down. So it’s a good idea to pack non-essentials first so you can continue using the items you actually need before you reach your new home.
Things like artwork, books, decorative items, seasonal clothing, and items already in storage should be packed up first. Pack essentials last, always!
And the last tip we have is always to label and/or color code your boxes. Color coding labels are pretty handy because they allow you to quickly see at a glance what sort of items a box contains.
Always label your boxes with a sufficient description. If you want, you can even list verbatim what exact items a box has inside. This also makes unpacking much easier, as you’ll be able to pick and choose what things to unpack instead of tearing apart every single box to find that one kitchen utensil you need ASAP.
Though there are many things to remember for your move, understanding the basics of folding boxes and packing them can significantly help in the long run. And from our family to yours, we wish you a successful and safe move!
Keep Reading: How Long Does It Take Movers To Deliver Your Things?
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The Movers Moving & Storage has been a family-owned and operated moving company for 40 years and across three generations. Serving areas in Tampa, St. Petersburg, Bradenton, Spring Hill, Lakeland, Wesley Chapel, Brandon, and Clearwater in Florida, our simple approach to moving has not changed since the day we opened. We treat our customers like family and their belongings like our own. For more moving facts and information, follow us on LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter.
