What to pack in small boxes when moving

However laborious and time-consuming it may be, packing for moving is a pretty straightforward process – all you need to do is wrap up your items, put them in boxes, provide some cushioning, and seal the containers. Breakables and sensitive objects require a little extra care, of course, but the principle remains the same. So, as long as you know how to pack moving boxes the right way, everything should go smoothly and without a hitch.

Yet, it is not only the proper packing technique that matters – using the proper boxes is just as important. Packing delicate valuables in old boxes from grocery stores or putting a few dozen books in one box will be as disastrous for your belongings as not providing sufficient cushioning inside the containers or not sealing the cartons well. Using the right boxes, on the other hand, will save you time and effort when preparing your items for shipping and will minimize the risk of damage to your belongings.

So, when you start packing for your next move, don’t pick boxes at random – make sure you choose the right type of box for every type of items you have for moving. Consider the quality, sturdiness, and specific purpose of the moving containers and pay special attention to the moving box dimensions – packing boxes come in a variety of sizes and every size is appropriate for different kinds of items. The small moving box, however, is used the most.

Why small moving boxes are so practical?

Small boxes for moving, commonly referred to as book boxes for moving, are the smallest of the standard-sized packing boxes – about 16 inches wide, 12 inches long, and 12 inches deep. Despite their small dimensions, however, these boxes are very sturdy and can carry up to 60 lbs. This makes them the ideal choice for packing smaller, heavier items:

• Small packing boxes are strong enough to hold weighty objects – books, tools, kitchen items, etc. – without giving out at the bottom;
• Delicate items are best packed in small boxes – separately or together with a few items of the same type, so they have the best possible protection during transit;
• You don’t need to worry about the weight of the boxes – the cartons will typically fill up before they become too heavy;
• Small moving boxes are easy to carry and easy to stack – this makes them very convenient to use, reduces the risk of damage to the items inside them, helps prevent personal injuries, and allows optimization of the space in the moving truck;
• Smaller boxes are cheaper than larger ones.

With so many benefits, it’s easy to see why the 1.5 cubic foot box is so commonly used in house moves. From silverware and small kitchen items to books and videos, the small moving box is the perfect packing container for a variety of household items.

What to pack in small moving boxes?

The answer is simple enough – anything that fits in. Having the bulk of your items packed in small moving boxes will make your relocation safer and easier. So, save larger cartons for bulky, lightweight pieces and pack the rest of your belongings in 16” x 12” x 12” moving boxes.

To be more precise, here is what to pack in small boxes when moving:

• Books, dictionaries, encyclopedias, magazines, and other reading materials (See also: How to pack books for moving);
• Textbooks, notebooks, sketchbooks, files, binders, etc.;
• CDs, DVDs, tapes, videos, and other records;
• Office supplies (place very small items like pens and pencils, paperclips and pins, etc. in sealable plastic bags first);
• Small kitchen items – silverware, cooking utensils, can and bottle openers, measuring cups, mixing bowls, whisks, graters, colanders, vegetable peelers, juicers, teapots, etc. (See also: How to pack a kitchen for moving);
• Plates, bowls, cups, glasses, vases, and other chinaware and glassware items that are not packed in specialized dish barrels (See also: How to pack plates for moving; How to pack glasses for moving);
• Canned foods, spice jars, and other pantry items (See also: What to do with your food when moving);
• Small appliances, electronics, and/or electrical devices, such as toasters, coffee makers, blenders, hand mixers, hair dryers, radios, clocks, cameras, tablets, etc., unless they can be packed in their original boxes (See also: How to pack electronics for moving);
• Small tools (make sure you wrap any blades and sharp edges in old towels and bubble wrap first) (See also: How to pack tools for moving);
• Small framed pictures and photographs (See also: How to pack pictures for moving);
• Small lampshades (See also: How to pack lamps for moving);
• Bathroom items (make sure you seal liquids well and place them in plastic bags before putting them in the boxes) (See also: How to pack toiletries for moving; How to pack bathroom items for moving);
• Shoes, unless you can pack the pairs in their original shoe boxes (See also: How to pack shoes for moving);
• Craft supplies (be extra careful with hazardous materials);
• Decorations and knick-knacks.

The list goes on and on – any small household items, especially heavier ones, should go into 1.5 cubic foot boxes.

Related useful read: What specialty boxes do you need when packing for a move

Bonus tips for packing small moving boxes

No matter the size of the box, the basic principles for safe and efficient packing remain the same. Yet, when it comes to small boxes, there are some specifics to remember:

1. Small loose items should be grouped together before being put in the box for better organization and easier unpacking. You can wrap the bundled items in packing paper or bubble wrap or place them in sealable bags – as appropriate;
2. Small moving boxes containing heavy items should not be stacked on top of larger boxes containing lightweight items. You should also avoid placing heavy boxes on top of upholstered furniture and fine wood surfaces;
3. Even though a small moving box can safely withhold up to 60 pounds, it’s advisable to keep its weight under 50 pounds. If the box becomes heavier than 50 pounds but is not yet full, the remaining empty space should be filled with crushed paper or other lightweight cushioning materials;
4. You’re going to need about 15 small moving boxes (as well as 10 medium size boxes and 5 large ones) to pack the contents of one room (See also: How many boxes do you need for a move).

Needless to say, if you’re not sure exactly what to pack in small boxes when moving or how to ensure the safety of your belongings in the small packing containers, or if you are not up to the task, you can leave the job to the experts – professional movers and packers have quality packing materials (including the best size boxes for moving house) and know how to pack the moving containers in the safest and most efficient way possible. Your relocation will be hassle- and stress-free and your belongings will arrive at your new home intact and unscathed. Happy moving!