Moving Boxes Guide

Moving Box Question:

Is there anything special about moving boxes vs. any other kind of boxes?

Moving Box Answer:

Yes. There are two main differences between moving boxes and many other boxes:

1. Moving boxes are constructed to be much sturdier than an ordinary cardboard box. Cardboard boxes are usually measured using two different scales: one is called the ECT, or Edge Crush Test, and the other is called the Burst Strength test. The ECT measures the degree to which a box will hold its form and how well the boxes can be stacked one upon another. The Burst Strength Test, or BST, is measured in pounds, and indicates how stable a box is under stress. What separates moving boxes from others is that they usually carry a higher score on the Burst Strength Test (a value of 200 pounds or higher) and the ECT scale (meaning a score of 32 or higher), indicating that they are better alternatives for the demands of a household move. This allows moving boxes to withstand more weight while resisting tearing or crushing.

2. Moving boxes come in specific designs to help solve specific problems associated with moving:

· Wardrobe boxes. These tall, deep boxes with built-in bars for hangers are ideal for transporting clothes from closets without causing damage or wrinkling. They are also extremely easy to use. For most situations, this allows you to lift clothes straight from your closet hanger bar directly onto the hanger bar of the wardrobe box, and then in reverse at your new place. Tip: You can use the bottom section of wardrobe boxes to transport shoes, which will cut down on the total number of boxes you’ll need. Recommendation: We recommend these boxes.

· Dish packs. These "cell boxes" use internal dividers to separate and protect dishes and glassware. They keep kitchen items well-organized. Tip: Dishes should be packed on their edges, as if they were in a dish drying rack, and stemware should be packed standing up, not on its sides. Recommendation: These boxes are very helpful, but not absolutely necessary.

· File boxes. Designed specifically for transporting papers in file folders, these boxes often come with interlocking tops. Tip: You might wonder why you would need file boxes if you already have your files neatly stored in your file cabinets. The main reason is that files are incredibly heavy, and that file cabinets were never designed to be moved with files inside them. This combination leads to moving disasters, where file cabinets break and/or spill all their contents during a move. Assuming that the files and cabinets arrive in good shape, intact, the people who move them can end up with serious injuries. Recommendation: We strongly recommend file boxes.

· Picture frame boxes. As the name implies, theses boxes are designed to protect and transport large pictures and mirrors during your move,. And other than trying to flatten other boxes and tape them together, they are one of very few options available. Tip: It’s tempting to try to put multiple pictures together in the same box; however, they often get scratched or damaged if your do. Recommendation: We recommend picture frame boxes.

These two differences separate moving boxes from most other boxes. You should keep your eyes open for the specialty moving boxes, and check the bottom box stamps to see that they meet the standards for strength. These steps should prepare you well for your move.

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